Rack system for use in ISO-5 cleanroom
30 August 2022Task
A specialist in cleanroom intralogistics is developing a decentralised warehouse in accordance with cleanroom class ISO-5 for a customer in the electronics industry. The decentralised warehouse requires a rack system that meets the particle-reducing storage requirements. It should be possible to store highly sensitive electronic components for semiconductor production in transport containers across multiple levels of shelves. The different container types will be deposited and removed fully automatically by a 3-axis linear system. A frame for a semi-automated transfer station with a lock gate is also required.
Solution from mk
Four different racks of up to 12 m in length and with up to 50 storage compartments across 5 levels were manufactured. The frame, the mounts and the lock gate for the transfer station were also produced.
In order to meet the cleanroom requirements, the design was based around the mk cleanroom profile mk 2040.96 with a cross-section of 40 x 40 mm. The profile has a smooth surface and is closed on all sides, which ensures easy cleaning. In addition, mk’s typical corner radius of 1 mm ensures that the profiles are connected to each other with almost no gaps. The aluminium profiles were rough sawn, i.e. without anodising, and drilled to fit the connecting elements. Once the profiles were ready to assemble, they were then chemically cleaned, anodised and cleaned again.
The profiles were connected using internal tension plugs to eliminate obstructing edges during construction. The holes for the tension plugs were covered with appropriate plugs so that no pockets of dirt formed. Open profile ends were also fitted with end caps. The racks can be aligned and fixed to the floor using levelling feet.
Benefit for the customer
- Designed to ensure low particle content by using cleanroom profiles
- Easy cleaning due to easily accessible surfaces with no obstructing edges
- High flexibility thanks to modular profile design
- Quick and easy installation using completely pre-assembled modules
Products used