Types of cleanroom walls: Comparison and how to choose the right one

12:42 - 04/09/2025 100

In cleanroom design and operation, walls are a core component that helps maintain cleanliness levels, control airflow, and meet ISO or GMP standards. Choosing the right type of wall directly affects durability, flexibility, cleanability, and investment costs.

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☰ Article Table of Contents

1. Why are cleanroom walls important?
2. Common types of cleanroom walls
3. Factors to consider when choosing
4. Conclusion

Why are cleanroom walls important?

In the design and operation of cleanrooms, walls are a core component that helps maintain cleanliness levels, control airflow, and meet ISO or GMP standards. Choosing the right type of wall directly affects durability, flexibility, cleanability, and investment costs.

Common types of cleanroom walls

Softwall Walls

Structure: lightweight metal frame combined with soft PVC plastic curtains.
Advantages: low cost, quick installation, easy to reconfigure.
Application: suitable for ISO 7–8 cleanrooms where strict cleanliness is not required.
Limitations: lower isolation capability, requires higher airflow to maintain effectiveness.

Hardwall Walls

Structure: rigid panels (plastic, laminate, or powder-coated steel).
Advantages: durable, withstands high wind pressure, easy to clean.
Application: ISO 5–6 cleanrooms, or ISO 7–8 requiring higher stability than Softwall.
Limitations: higher investment and construction costs compared to Softwall.

Monobloc Walls

Structure: one-piece panels with smooth, sealed surfaces.
Advantages: high aesthetics, easy to clean, resistant to strong chemicals, integrated utilities (doors, windows, technical systems).
Application: GMP, pharmaceutical, medical cleanrooms or industries requiring strict standards.
Limitations: high investment cost, requires professional installation team.

Common types of cleanroom walls: Comparison and how to choose appropriately

Factors to consider when choosing

Required cleanliness level (ISO/GMP): directly determines the type of wall.
Reconfigurability: if the cleanroom needs expansion or changes, Hardwall and Softwall offer more flexibility than fixed or Monobloc walls.
Chemical resistance: in environments frequently using strong disinfectants, Monobloc is the optimal choice.
Project budget: Softwall saves initial costs, while Monobloc suits long-term projects requiring durability and GMP compliance.

Conclusion

There is no “best” cleanroom wall type for every situation. The choice should be based on required cleanliness level, intended use, future expandability, and budget.

Softwall: flexible, low cost.
Hardwall: durable, balanced cost and performance.
Monobloc: premium, optimized for GMP and strict environments.

Companies should consult ISO, GMP standards and cleanroom design experts to make the best decisions.

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