Modular Clean Room Design & Construction Guide

Modular cleanrooms offer a flexible and scalable solution for industries that require controlled environments. From pharmaceutical labs to electronics manufacturing, modular cleanrooms are designed for quick installation, easy expansion, and strict contamination control. This guide covers four popular types: Modular Cleanrooms, Modular Hardwall Cleanrooms, Softwall Cleanrooms, and USP-797 Cleanrooms.

1. Modular Cleanrooms

Modular cleanrooms are prefabricated cleanroom systems that can be assembled on-site with minimal disruption. Their modular nature allows businesses to expand or reconfigure spaces as needed without rebuilding from scratch.

Key Benefits:

• Fast installation

• Scalable and reconfigurable

• Cost-effective compared to traditional construction

• Available in ISO 5–8 classifications

Modular systems are ideal for industries like semiconductors, optics, aerospace, and life sciences.

2. Modular Hardwall Cleanrooms

Hardwall cleanrooms are rigid-panel cleanrooms that provide enhanced structural integrity and precise control over pressure and cleanliness levels.

Features:

• Durable aluminum or steel frames with solid panels

• Better pressure control for positive or negative airflow environments

• Cleanroom classifications from ISO 5 to ISO 8

• Can integrate pass-throughs, HEPA filters, FFUs, and air showers

Hardwall cleanrooms are commonly used in biotech, pharmaceutical, and aerospace applications where environmental control is critical.

3. Softwall Cleanrooms

Softwall cleanrooms use flexible PVC or vinyl curtains instead of rigid walls, offering a lightweight and low-cost cleanroom solution.

Advantages:

• Quick setup and takedown

• Portable and space-efficient

• Excellent for temporary or supplemental cleanroom needs

• Typically available in ISO 6 to ISO 8 classes

These are perfect for applications like packaging, storage, and general electronics assembly where full containment is not necessary.

4. USP-797 Cleanrooms

USP-797 cleanrooms are built to meet the United States Pharmacopeia Chapter <797> guidelines for sterile compounding in pharmacies and hospitals.

Design Considerations:

• Includes anterooms, buffer areas, and compounding rooms

• Strict air quality (ISO 7 or ISO 8), pressure, and temperature standards

• Use of HEPA filtration, hands-free doors, and gowning stations

USP-797 compliance ensures safety for patients and staff by minimizing microbial contamination during sterile drug preparation.

Conclusion

Choosing the right modular cleanroom depends on your industry, regulatory requirements, and operational needs. Whether you need a robust hardwall system or a lightweight softwall enclosure, modular cleanroom solutions provide the flexibility and performance your facility demands.