Semiconductor cleanrooms need to be meticulously controlled since even the smallest speck of dust can impact microchips and other semiconductor devices. If you’re involved in semiconductor production and you’re looking for a way to improve your standards, it might be time to consider commercial curtains.
In this article, we’ll discuss why industrial curtains are one of the best ways to improve cleanliness and efficiency in semiconductor production, the main benefits of using industrial curtains, and how you can get started today.
The Difficulty of Semiconductor Cleanrooms
A semiconductor cleanroom needs to maintain extra low levels of airborne particles, control temperature and humidity, and prevent electrostatic discharge. Even your skin cells, breath, or fiber from your clothing can interfere with the process used to make microchips and other semiconductor devices. It can be difficult to maintain this type of control while still keeping workrooms flexible, which is one of the reasons managers are turning to infrastructure like industrial curtains to help them reduce contamination and stay compliant with standards.
What Are Industrial Curtain Walls?
Industrial curtain walls are tough, flexible partitions that separate spaces without the need for permanent construction. They’re typically made from vinyl or other materials that are resistant to chemicals, moisture, and static electricity, and they hang from the ceiling or are installed on movable panels to make rearranging them easy. In semiconductor facilities, commercial curtains are engineered specifically for cleanroom use and can include anti-static options. They can also be compatible with HEPA-filtered air systems.
Benefits of Installing Industrial Curtains in Semiconductor Cleanrooms
There are many good reasons to install industrial curtains in semiconductor cleanrooms. Here, we cover some of the main ones.
Control Contamination
Industrial curtain walls create a physical barrier that helps keep particles from traveling between zones. Because many curtain systems come with overlapping flaps and weighted bottoms, you can effectively control airflow while still allowing easy access for employees or carts.
Create Zones
Different processes in semiconductor manufacturing require different conditions. With curtain walls, you can set up smaller cleanroom zones within your larger facility. For example, you might need increased humidity for chemical etching in one area and low humidity for wafer bonding in another area. Rather than building a wall between these two zones, you can install a curtain system to separate these spaces without construction.
Cost-Effective
Adding or modifying a hard-walled cleanroom section can cost hundreds of dollars per square foot. That can add up, especially if you’re constantly upgrading your spaces, but industrial curtains offer an affordable alternative. Installation is quick, it often doesn’t require major downtime, and it allows you to allocate your budget more effectively.
Improve Efficiency
Industrial curtains make it easier to create pathways for foot traffic and equipment without introducing contamination. If you need a temporary gowning space or want to isolate an area for maintenance, you can do that with a curtain wall.
Comply with Standards
Curtain systems can be custom-designed to meet ISO standards for cleanrooms. You can have them built with materials that won’t shed particles, that resist bacteria, and that are easy to clean. Many suppliers offer cleanroom curtains with documentation that supports compliance, which also makes inspections less stressful.
How to Choose the Right Curtain System for Your Semiconductor Facility
If you’re ready to get started, here are a few factors to consider when choosing a curtain system for your semiconductor cleanroom.
Cleanroom Classification
Make sure your curtain walls meet or exceed the ISO classification of your cleanroom.
Anti-Static Properties
Electrostatic discharge is a concern in semiconductor work. Look for curtains with anti-static or dissipative coatings that will prevent static buildup and protect your devices.
Material
PVC, vinyl, and polyurethane are commonly used to make industrial curtains, but the right choice will depend on your specific application. Check that the curtain material resists common chemicals used in your processes, like acids, solvents, and alcohols.
Mounting Options
The best mounting options will again depend on your needs. Typically, you’ll want to choose a curtain system that allows for easy mounting and reconfiguration. Ceiling-mounted tracks, retractable panels, and roll-up designs are excellent options.
Customization
You may need custom sizes, pass-through flaps, windows, or integrated lighting. Make a list of your needs before placing your order to ensure you’re getting exactly what you’re looking for.
How Much Downtime Does Installing Semiconductor Cleanroom Curtains Require?
Installing industrial curtains doesn’t usually take much downtime, especially compared to building permanent walls. For small to medium areas (less than 500 square feet), curtain installation can take between one and four hours. For larger areas (over 1,000 square feet), installation time might take longer, up to one or two days, often broken into phases.
One of the main factors that affects installation time is the mounting system used. Ceiling or wall-mounted track systems are popular and quick to install, especially when mounted on open surfaces. Prep time is often also minimal and usually just involves clearing the installation area.
Other factors that might affect downtime include operating hours and whether your installers can work during off-hours to avoid interrupting production. Your customization needs might also make a difference. If you have complex layouts or overlapping panels, this may add time to your overall installation.
Are Industrial Curtains Worth the Investment?
Semiconductor manufacturing is only getting more complex, and cleanroom standards are getting stricter. Industrial curtains give you a flexible and cost-effective way to improve your facility. These curtains can help you respond to process changes, add capacity without building new walls, improve contamination control, and cut costs. For many, the return on investment is worth the initial startup cost.
Learn More About the Semiconductor Cleanroom Curtain Walls with Singer Safety
At Singer Safety, our mission is to improve workplace safety and efficiency with our range of high-quality commercial curtains. Each of our products is designed with durability in mind, and we offer both standard and custom sizes.
Need help deciding which option is right for you? Our staff can help you determine the products that will work best for your facility. To learn more, contact us today.
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