Kröll adapts the power of a shower
Austrian company Kröll, known for its expertise in personal sluices for paint shops in the automotive sector, has adapted its activities to the pharmaceutical industry.
The sluices form a barrier between the grey and the white side of the production area, requiring workers to pass through a curtain of air to remove particulate contamination from their clothes. Four rows of high speed air nozzles in the corners and ceiling of the cabinet create a horizontal and vertical air flow. The velocity and duration can be varied to optimise the efficiency of dust and dirt removal: the higher the velocity, the finer the particles that are removed. The default time for the process is one minute, but Kröll says that the optimum effect may be achieved after 10 secs. The default air flow is 2,500m3/h, discharging at a speed of 25-30m/sec. A failsafe system on the doors, controlled by photosensors, ensures that personnel cannot pass from the grey side to the white side without operating the decontamination procedure. A brush system for cleaning the soles of shoes has been added, as well as modifications for the pharmaceutical and semiconductor sectors. This includes a ceiling to ensure laminar air flow across the entire surface, and replacing some of the interior panels to create a seamless surface and eliminate traps. The pharma version is expected to be on the market within two months.