Cleanroom Differential Pressure Control Principle: 3 Realization Options for Maintaining 10-15 Pa Levels

Author:Jason Peng
Cleanroom Engineering Technology Manager of Deiiang Company.

Product R&D Manager of GDC Inc. Cleanroom Equipment Manufacturing Company.

Executive Director of Guangdong Cleanroom Industry Association of China.

Engaged in R&D of related products for 15 years, with rich relevant technical experience
2025-06-09 | Visits:

Maintaining a specific pressure differential (typically 10-15 Pa) is critical for controlling contaminant flow in cleanrooms. This pressure gradient prevents unfiltered air from entering controlled environments and ensures containment of particles and microorganisms. Effective pressure maintenance requires integrated systems, structural integrity, and continuous monitoring.

Pressure Gradient Visualization

15Pa

12Pa

10Pa

Three Essential Methods for Pressure Maintenance

Airflow Balancing and Control Systems

Precision HVAC Systems（PLC）

Employ specialized CleanRoom HVAC systems with precise airflow control capabilities. These systems regulate air entering and leaving the cleanroom with high accuracy, essential for maintaining the desired pressure differential.

Dynamic Regulation Components(VAV)

Integrate variable Air volume (VAV) systems or airflow dampers to adjust air supply and exhaust volumes. These components act as dynamic regulators, responding to environmental changes to maintain pressure within the specified range.

Automated Monitoring & Adjustment

Utilize pressure sensors for continuous differential monitoring. Based on real-time data, the system automatically adjusts airflow rates to maintain the desired gradient, minimizing human error and ensuring consistency.

Airlock and Door Control

Transitional Airlock Zones

Install airlocks at cleanroom entrances as transitional zones that minimize pressure fluctuations during entry. These compartments allow pressure adjustment before opening the main cleanroom door, preserving the internal pressure balance.

Electronically Interlocked Doors

Implement electronically controlled interlocked doors ensuring only one door opens at a time. This mechanism prevents simultaneous opening that could cause sudden air influxes disrupting the pressure differential.

Automated Door Closing Systems

Equip cleanrooms with automated door closing mechanisms to minimize open-door time. Faster door closure reduces opportunities for external air to enter or internal air to escape, preserving the critical pressure differential.

Sealing and Structural Integrity

Comprehensive Sealing

Ensure complete cleanroom sealing to prevent air leakage that disrupts pressure differentials. Even minor leaks can cause significant pressure changes over time, making thorough sealing essential for maintaining the required gradient.

Robust Construction

Use high-quality materials and construction techniques to maintain structural integrity. Materials must withstand cleanroom environmental conditions and resist damage that could lead to air leakage compromising pressure control.

Proactive Maintenance Regimen

Regularly inspect and maintain seals around doors, windows, and potential leakage points. This proactive approach enables early detection and repair of issues, preventing larger problems and ensuring continuous pressure differential effectiveness.

Critical Implementation Components

Continuous Monitoring Systems

Essential pressure sensors and monitoring equipment that provide real-time data on differential status. These systems trigger automatic adjustments to maintain the required 10-15 Pa gradient during operational variations.

Personnel Training Programs

Comprehensive training for cleanroom staff on pressure maintenance protocols. Educated personnel understand the importance of pressure differentials and follow procedures that minimize disruptions to the controlled environment.

Regular System Audits

Scheduled evaluations of pressure maintenance systems to ensure long-term reliability. Audits identify potential issues before they compromise cleanroom integrity and verify that all components operate at peak efficiency.

Integrated Pressure Maintenance System

cleanroom pressure Control System Diagram

HVAC

VAV Systems

Airlocks

Sensors

Sealed Structure

Maintaining the critical 10-15 Pa pressure differential requires an integrated approach combining advanced HVAC systems, specialized entryway controls, and structurally sound construction. By implementing airflow balancing systems, airlock controls, and comprehensive sealing measures, cleanrooms can effectively minimize contamination risks. Continuous monitoring, personnel training, and regular system audits ensure these methods remain effective long-term, preserving environmental integrity and meeting stringent cleanliness standards.

ISO 14644 Compliance

GMP Standards

Contaminant Control

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