Airkey is proud to share the details of our latest modular cleanroom project for a customer in Portugal who is in the electronic industry. This cleanroom measures 11,850mm x 3,380mm x 2,700mm and complies with the ISO Class 6 cleanliness standard. The cleanroom features a well-thought-out layout that includes a change room, air shower, production area, and handling room for high-precision processes.
One of the standout features of this cleanroom is that its critical clean area is made of yellow light windows. Why and where are yellow light windows necessary in a cleanroom?
Protection from UV and short-wavelength light
Yellow light windows, or yellow-tinted glass walls, are commonly used in cleanrooms, particularly environments where photolithography or other light-sensitive processes are conducted. Many electronic manufacturing processes, especially in the semiconductor and micro-electronics industries, involve photoresist materials that are sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) and short-wavelength visible light (e.g., blue light).
Yellow light windows filter out these harmful wavelengths, preventing unwanted exposure that could degrade or alter the photoresist materials, leading to defects in the final product.
Enhanced precision in sensitive processes
In areas where precise handling or inspection of light-sensitive materials is required, Yellow light provides a safe working environment. It allows operators to work under controlled lighting conditions without risking damage to sensitive components.
Improved visibility for operators
Yellow light is often used because it provides sufficient illumination for operators to perform tasks accurately while minimising the risk of light-induced contamination or damage. It strikes a balance between visibility and safety.
Compliance with industry standards
The use of yellow light in cleanrooms aligns with industry best practices and standards, particularly semiconductor manufacturing. For example, ISO 14644 and SEMI Standards emphasise the importance of controlling environmental factors, including lighting, to ensure product quality.
Contamination control
Yellow light windows are typically made of materials that are easy to clean and maintain, contributing to the overall cleanliness of the cleanroom environment. In addition, they are flush-mounted to the cleanroom walls and structures, making the whole cleanroom smooth, flush and free of crevices.These all help facilitate a clean environment.
Applications in cleanrooms
Photolithography areas: used in semiconductor manufacturing to protect photoresist coatings/silicon wafers.
Inspection and rework stations: provides a safe lighting environment for inspecting or repairing light-sensitive components.
Precise handling rooms: ensures that delicate operations, such as assembling microelectronic components, are performed under controlled lighting conditions.
Yellow light windows play a critical role in protecting light-sensitive processes, enhancing operator visibility, and maintaining the integrity of products in cleanrooms, particularly in the electronics and semiconductor industries.
To learn more about Airkey cleanrooms, visit www.airkeyx.com
