Cleanroom noise measurement is an important factor that directly affects product quality and work efficiency. Measuring and controlling noise is essential to ensure an ideal working environment and achieve the highest production efficiency. So what is noise in a cleanroom? What are the steps in the cleanroom noise measurement process? Let’s find out with INTECH Service in the article below
What is cleanroom noise?
The noise level in a cleanroom is measured in decibels (dB) within a controlled environment, known as a cleanroom. The standard noise level for a cleanroom is between 60 dB and 65 dB (A) (reference value).
Why is it necessary to measure cleanroom noise?
Compliance with Standards: Certain standards and regulations require cleanrooms to maintain specific noise levels to protect the health of employees and ensure a safe working environment. Noise measurements help verify that these requirements are met.
HVAC System Performance Evaluation: Noise levels can also be used to assess the performance of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in cleanrooms. Excessive noise may indicate that the system requires maintenance or adjustment.
Worker Health and Safety: Excessive noise can have various negative health impacts, including hearing loss, stress, fatigue, and reduced productivity.
Preventing Interference: In cleanrooms, especially in the pharmaceutical, microbiological, and electronic industries, noise can disrupt processes and equipment. Noise measurements help ensure that equipment and processes are not affected by noise, thereby guaranteeing product quality.
Cleanroom noise measurement steps
Steps for Measuring Cleanroom Noise Levels:
Step 1: Preparation
Equipment: Use a specialized cleanroom noise meter. Additionally, prepare accessories such as a stand for the meter and a windscreen (if needed).
Measurement Points: For cleanrooms smaller than 50m², place the measuring device at the center of the room. For rooms larger than 50m², establish a measurement point every 50m².
Measurement Conditions: The ideal condition for measuring cleanroom noise is when the room is in a static state.
Step 2: Conduct Measurement
Place the Meter: Position the noise meter at the selected locations, ensuring it is set at an appropriate height, typically 1.0m – 1.2m above the floor.
Read Results: Read the noise level displayed on the meter and record the results in a log.
Step 3: Process Data
Calculate Average Values: Compute the average values of measurements at each point and the overall average for the entire cleanroom.
Compare with Standards: Compare the measured values with the permissible noise standards for cleanrooms.
Analyze Results: Analyze the causes of any noise levels exceeding standards (if applicable) and identify areas needing improvement.
Noise Control Standards for Cleanrooms
Noise levels in a cleanroom, when no production activities are occurring, should generally not exceed 60 dB(A). The overall noise level, including noise from equipment and ventilation systems, should not exceed 65 dB(A).
ISO/DIS14644-4 (draft) specifies: “An appropriate sound pressure level should be chosen based on the comfort and safety requirements of the individuals in the cleanroom and the ambient sound pressure level of the environment (e.g., other equipment). The range of sound pressure levels for cleanrooms is 40-65 dB(A).”
Research on international cleanroom noise standards began in the 1960s. The U.S. Federal Standard 209A, established in 1966 and amended as 209B in 1974, stipulates: “Noise control in cleanrooms should be within a range that allows necessary conversations, meets operational or product requirements, and ensures that personnel remain comfortable and safe.
Noise levels are a critical criterion in achieving cleanroom standards. With many years of experience in cleanroom measurement, INTECH Service provides accurate and detailed noise measurement services. Contact us today for prompt consultation with our experienced specialists and engineers in the field.