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What is ISO Class 2 particle count?

  • 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

  • 2024-12-09  |  Visits:

Introduction to ISO Standards

The ISO 14644 standard series classifies cleanrooms and controlled environments based on airborne particle counts. These standards are essential for industries where maintaining a high level of cleanliness is critical, such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and Semiconductor manufacturing. Understanding ISO classifications helps organizations minimize contamination, ensure product quality, and comply with regulatory requirements.

ISO 1
Most Stringent
ISO 5
Common Standard
ISO 9
Least Stringent

What is ISO Class 2 Particle Count?

ISO Class 2 refers to A CleanRoom environment where the maximum allowable particle count for particles larger than 0.5 micrometers is set at 3,520 particles per cubic meter. For particles larger than 5 micrometers, the allowable count is only 29 particles per cubic meter. This is one of the most stringent classifications for cleanroom environments, indicating a very high level of cleanliness.

Importance of Particle Count

Particle count measurement is crucial in determining the cleanliness level of a cleanroom. High levels of airborne particles can lead to contamination of sensitive products, affecting their efficacy and safety.

monitoring and controlling particle counts in ISO2 environments ensures that facilities adhere to industry standards, reduce contamination risks, and maintain product integrity.

Measurement Techniques

  • Air Sampling: Collecting air samples using specialized equipment
  • Real-Time Monitoring: Continuous monitoring for immediate corrective actions
  • Regular Audits: Routine inspections to ensure compliance

ISO Standard Particle Limits

ISO standard limits refer to the maximum allowable concentrations of airborne particles defined within the ISO 14644 series. These limits vary according to the class of cleanroom and are crucial for maintaining the integrity of sensitive processes and products.

ISO ClassMax Particles/m³ (≥0.1 µm)Max Particles/m³ (≥0.5 µm)Max Particles/m³ (≥5.0 µm)
Class 11020
Class 2100240
Class 31,0002400
Class 410,0002,4000
Class 5100,00024,00029

Importance of Compliance

Compliance with ISO standard limits is critical for industries that require stringent cleanliness. Failure to adhere can lead to contamination, affecting product quality, safety, and efficacy. Organizations must implement rigorous monitoring and control systems to ensure consistent compliance.

Applications of ISO Class 2 Cleanrooms

Pharmaceutical cleanroom

Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

Essential for producing sterile products like injectables and biologics. Prevents contamination ensuring product safety and efficacy.

Biotechnology Research cleanroom

Biotechnology Research

Protects sensitive cultures and cell lines from airborne contaminants, enabling reliable research results.

Semiconductor cleanroom

Semiconductor Fabrication

Prevents minute particles from causing defects in microchips, ensuring manufacturing integrity.

Aerospace & Defense cleanroom

Aerospace & Defense

Used for assembling sensitive components that must operate under stringent conditions.

Quality Assurance

Quality Assurance

Enables testing and validation under contamination-controlled conditions for higher quality products.

ISO Class 3 Particle Count

ISO Class 3 refers to a CleanRoom Classification with specific particle count requirements:

  • ≥0.5 µm: Max 35,200 particles/m³
  • ≥1.0 µm: Max 8,700 particles/m³
  • ≥5.0 µm: Max 293 particles/m³

Maintenance Requirements

  • Frequent particle counting with laser counters
  • Strict airflow management
  • Rigorous cleaning protocols
  • Continuous Environmental monitoring

Importance of ISO3 Standards

Product Quality

Prevents particulate contamination that can cause defects in sensitive products

Regulatory Compliance

Meets strict industry regulations and international standards

Operational Efficiency

Reduces need for rework and product recalls, saving time and resources

Maintaining Cleanroom standards

Adherence to ISO cleanroom classifications is not just about compliance - it fosters a culture of quality and safety within organizations. Companies that maintain high cleanliness standards enhance product reliability, reduce waste, and build customer trust in critical industries.

iso 14644-1 Standards
Particle Monitoring
Contamination Control

© 2023 Cleanroom Standards Guide | ISO 14644 Classification System

This information is based on ISO 14644 standards for cleanroom classifications and particle count requirements. Always refer to the latest official documentation for compliance purposes.

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