In an industrial cleanroom environment, unidirectional air flow can provide a component or process with protection from airborne contaminants, but additional measures may be required to block these types of contaminants in certain applications. Barriers between the contamination source and the process, product, or personnel in the cleanroom can effectively shield sensitive elements. In addition to cleanroom garments, curtains, and structures, clean air devices, such as transfer hoods, safety cabinets, and isolators can be used to achieve the necessary level of contaminant control. These devices usually have their own air filtration units independent of cleanroom ventilation and can provide workspaces that are some degree cleaner than the larger cleanroom itself.
An isolator is a type of clean air device that creates an almost complete separation between a product and its production equipment, technical personnel, and surrounding work environment. Isolators are generally used in applications requiring a high degree of protection from external elements or contaminants, and they can also serve as alternatives to sophisticated cleanrooms. Isolators typically feature built-in air filtration systems capable of significantly lowering a particle count in an enclosed area, and their relatively compact size makes it easier to clean their interiors with gas or vapor sterilizing agents. A light positive air pressure is maintained to prevent the entrance of contaminants from any openings, while worker activities are conducted through sealed glove assemblies.
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