Unidirectional Flow / Clean Air Bench Validation

Laminar flow devices, also known as clean air benches or Unidirectional Airflow devices,  are specialised workstations designed to provide a clean, particle-free environment by directing filtered air over the workspace. They are commonly used in laboratories, pharmaceutical facilities, electronics manufacturing, and other sensitive environments where contamination control is critical.

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These devices utilise High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) or Ultra-Low Penetration Air (ULPA) filters to remove airborne particles, ensuring the workspace meets stringent cleanliness standards. Air is passed through these filters and then directed in a uniform, unidirectional flow across the work surface, effectively sweeping away contaminants and protecting the materials or products being handled.

There are two primary types of laminar flow benches:

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• Horizontal Laminar Flow Benches

• Vertical Laminar Flow Benches

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On horizontal Laminar Flow devices, the filtered air flows horizontally from the back of the bench towards the operator, providing product protection.  Vertical Laminar Flow devices, filtered air moves vertically from the top of the bench downwards, often preferred for applications requiring greater control over contamination.

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Unlike Microbiological safety cabinets (MSCs), laminar flow devices are not designed to protect the user or the environment from hazardous materials. Instead, they are intended for processes requiring product protection from particulates, making them unsuitable for handling biohazards or toxic substances.

 

​Horizontal and vertical clean air devices will be tested in accordance with ISO-14644 and manufacturer’s specifications​.​​​​​