What’s the difference between FFU and air shower
In the cleanroom field, although two common types of equipment, FFU (Fan Filtration Unit) and air shower, both utilize HEPA/ULPA filters, their functions, design principles and applications are very different.
Differences between FFU and airshower functions
FFU: Acts as the primary or supplementary air filtration and circulation system for the clean space itself. It creates a localized dust-free environment by creating a downward-flowing “curtain” or “air shower” of clean air through built-in fans and high-efficiency filters.
Air shower : Located at the transition point between lower cleanliness areas (e.g., locker rooms) and higher cleanliness areas, the air shower serves as an interlocking room and decontamination entrance. Upon entering the air shower room, the high-speed airflow from the air shower room effectively removes surface contaminants and prevents external contaminants from entering the clean area.
Differences between FFU and airshower design principles
FFU： FFU creates a smooth vertical airflow curtain through unidirectional laminar flow with a low airflow velocity (approx. 0.3-0.5 m/s), which gently sweeps particles generated in the work area downward away from critical processes/products, preventing particles from settling and cross-contamination in the horizontal direction. Typically installed in ceiling grilles.
Air Shower: Air Shower uses strategically placed nozzles to spray high-velocity (20-25 m/s+) HEPA/ULPA-filtered air at people/objects from multiple angles. Turbulence and high shear are essential for the physical removal of loose particles (dust, fibers, dander) that adhere to clothing and surfaces. Designed as a sealed chamber with interlocking doors (typically one door must be closed to open the other) and typically has a slight negative pressure relative to the cleanroom.
Differences between FFU and airshower applications
FFU: Creating ISO Class 5 (Class 100) or cleaner environments over workbenches, filling lines, assembly stations, or as the entire ceiling in cleanrooms. Essential for semiconductor manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, biotech, optics.
Air Shower: Placed at the entrance to ISO Class 5/6/7 cleanrooms (or cleaner) after the gowning room. Used in pharmaceuticals, microelectronics, aerospace, and any critical environment where personnel entry is frequent.
In summary
FFU: Think of it as the clean air supply constantly raining down inside the cleanroom to keep it particle-free.
Air Shower: Think of it as the “dirt blower” you walk through before entering the cleanroom to knock loose contaminants off your suit.
As a professional cleanroom service provider, SDpanel Cleanroom offers efficient and reliable FFU and air shower solutions. Our FFUs utilize advanced energy-saving technologies to dramatically reduce energy consumption while maintaining superior filtration performance. Our air showers feature precise air velocity control for an efficient and comfortable transition experience. Whether you need a continuous supply of clean air or a protective barrier before entering a cleanroom, SDpanel can meet your needs and support the efficient operation of your manufacturing and research activities.