Modular cleanrooms are becoming the go-to choice for companies. They offer a flexible way to create controlled environments without the long lead times or cost commitments of permanent construction.
At Modulus Cleanrooms, we often hear similar questions from teams who are exploring modular options for the first time. This article brings together answers to some of the most common ones so you can better understand how modular cleanrooms work, what components are available, and how they can be tailored to your operations.
A modular cleanroom is a pre-engineered, prefabricated controlled environment designed for rapid installation, expansion, or relocation.
Unlike traditional hardwall builds that are permanent, modular cleanrooms are assembled with panels and systems that can be reconfigured as needs evolve. This makes them especially valuable for industries where growth, new projects, or changing requirements are part of the long-term plan.
Cleanrooms are classified by how effectively they control airborne particles. Modular systems are highly versatile, supporting ISO classifications from ISO 4 to ISO 8 depending on the chosen components.
The classification you select is determined by your operational requirements, the type of products you’re working with, and the degree of particle control needed. This flexibility ensures that whether you are working in sensitive medical device assembly or R&D, your cleanroom can be tailored to the right standards.
Softwall cleanrooms use clear or opaque vinyl curtain walls, creating an enclosed environment that is both cost-effective and fast to set up. They are commonly used in applications that require ISO 7 or ISO 8 classifications, where flexible containment is more important than rigid, long-term walls.
Hardwall cleanrooms, on the other hand, use solid acrylic or polycarbonate wall panels that provide greater durability and support higher ISO classifications, such as ISO 5 to ISO 7. These are often chosen for environments that require more precise control of airflows and conditions, while still maintaining the modular advantage of being reconfigurable.
Both designs are valuable, and the choice often comes down to the type of projects your facility supports and how much structural durability you need.
Yes. One of the greatest strengths of modular cleanrooms is their ability to grow and change alongside your organization. Panels, ceilings, and other components are designed to be reconfigured or expanded as new requirements arise.
If your R&D department adds new processes or your medical device facility scales up production, your cleanroom can be updated without starting from scratch. This adaptability makes modular systems a future-focused investment.
The performance of a modular cleanroom depends on the systems and components that work together to maintain controlled conditions. Fan filter units, or FFUs, are among the most critical. These are self-contained air filtration modules that push HEPA- or ULPA-filtered air into the cleanroom to maintain particle control.
Different models are available depending on your airflow requirements, efficiency goals, and cleanroom size. Ceiling grids are another key feature, with options for both self-supporting and suspended configurations. Energy-efficient LED lighting is often integrated directly into the grid, ensuring consistent visibility while conserving energy.
Wall panels, flooring materials, and doors are selected based on your specific contamination control needs, with durability and cleanability built into every choice. Together, these components create an environment that meets your operational standards while remaining adaptable to change.
Yes. Many fan filter units in modular cleanrooms are designed to be room-side replaceable. This means filters can be swapped out without disrupting cleanroom operations, allowing maintenance to take place efficiently.
Filtration levels typically fall into two categories. HEPA filters capture 99.99 percent of particles at 0.3 microns, while ULPA filters offer an even higher level of protection, capturing 99.9995 percent of particles at 0.12 microns. The sensitivity of your task and your classification criteria will determine whether you choose ULPA or HEPA.
Accessories enhance the function and usability of modular cleanrooms. Pass-through cabinets, for example, allow materials to enter or leave the cleanroom without compromising its controlled environment.
Gowning areas, monitoring systems, and storage solutions can also be added to streamline workflows. Because these accessories are modular as well, they can be incorporated or updated as your facility evolves.
Modular cleanroom systems can be configured to support specialized rooms with different airflow and pressure setups. These configurations help maintain strict contamination control. For example, a space can be designed to maintain directional airflow that supports containment requirements or to create clean zones that protect sensitive materials during assembly.
One of the main advantages of modular construction is the speed of installation. Many softwall cleanrooms can be shipped and installed in just a few weeks, while larger or more customized designs may take longer, depending on size and complexity.
Compared to traditional construction, which can take months to complete, modular solutions allow your team to get up and running quickly with minimal disruption.
Most modular cleanroom providers offer different levels of support, ranging from full installation to hybrid models where your internal team completes assembly with guidance from technical experts.
At Modulus Cleanrooms, our approach is collaborative, offering both hands-on services and detailed instructions for teams who prefer to handle parts of the process themselves. This flexibility ensures you get the right balance of expertise and independence for your project.
Modular cleanrooms have become an essential solution for organizations that need reliable, flexible, and scalable controlled environments. They provide a way to meet strict ISO classifications while also allowing for easy expansion or reconfiguration as your operations grow.
With components like fan filter units, ceiling grids, and integrated lighting, modular systems can be tailored to meet specific requirements. Installation is often quicker than traditional builds, and the range of accessories makes it possible to customize the space for your unique workflows.
By choosing modular, you are investing in a system that adapts to your needs now and in the future, making it a valuable asset for any forward-thinking facility. To explore how a modular cleanroom can support your goals, connect with our team at Modulus Cleanrooms today.
