Cleanroom Ceilings: The Differences Between Modular And Stick-Built

Ziebaq talks about how to build cleanroom ceilings, which must sustain a variety of systems to maintain the atmosphere.

In order to enable the growth of semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, electronics, and healthcare, cleanrooms are critical spaces where stringent cleanliness and contamination control requirements are necessary.

The ceiling grid system, which supports essential components like HEPA or ULPA filters, lighting fixtures, fire protection, air handler units, and automated material handling systems (in the case of semiconductors), is one of the core parts of cleanroom design and dependability.

Identifying the right ceiling grid solution is an important part in designing and building your cleanroom.

Pre-assembled modular ceilings and T-Grid stick-built ceilings are the two most popular methods used to build cleanroom ceiling grids. The main distinctions between these two systems are examined in this article, along with the most important factors to take into account when choosing the best option for your cleanroom application.

Modular ceiling grids

Because modular ceiling modules are fully constructed at the manufacturer and shipped complete, ready to be fitted in sections, they support an off-site manufacturing model. These modules are made to work with the specifications and layout of the cleanroom and offer the following:
Faster speed of installation: Since most parts of modular ceiling grids are welded at the factory and are prepared for on-site assembly, they are renowned for their quick installation times.

This can significantly reduce construction timelines, minimising downtime during cleanroom setup or renovations.

Precision and consistency: Because modular components are manufactured in factories, their measurements and quality are typically more accurate and consistent, which makes the cleanroom environment more predictable.

Customised components: Despite being standardised, modular systems frequently provide customising choices to meet unique cleanroom needs, including improved walkability, wiring, lighting, and fire safety.

Field labour cost-efficiency: Installing modular ceilings might result in cost savings because onsite personnel can do the job more quickly and easily.

Cleanroom ceilings: The differences between modular and stick-built
 

Stick-built ceiling grids
 

Stick-built ceiling grids, also known as T-Grid, offer more delivery options that meet your needs for the construction site and greater flexibility for retrofitting into existing spaces.

Stick-built solutions leverage individual components like structural supports, grid systems, and ceiling sections that provide:

Flexibility in design: Stick-built systems offer more design and layout flexibility, enabling changes and adaptations as work is being done. Retrofitting and special cleanroom layouts may benefit from this.

Hybrid construction model: Stick constructed systems are bolted together, offering greater construction and delivery flexibility than welded modular options. A manufacturer should be able to provide the ceiling grid pre-assembled, flat packed semi-constructed, or ready to be built on site when using a hybrid construction style.

Cost shifts: Stick-built solutions are frequently less expensive overall than modular ceiling grids, but they require more manpower during installation, which increases the possibility of mistakes.  

Considerations for selecting the right ceiling grid solution

Many times, a stick-built ceiling system or a modular ceiling system will satisfy the necessary functionality, dependability, and class ratings. 
Project timeline: Think about how urgently you need to set up or renovate your cleanroom. Stick-build ceiling grids will take longer to install, while modular ceiling grids can be a better option if time is of the essence. Examine whether any site constraints exist that would make offsite construction a helpful way to maintain project momentum.

Budget: Examine your financial limitations. While a stick-built grid is probably going to have a cheaper grid cost, there are higher labour expenses and installation knowledge required for modular systems, which may have lower installation costs but generally have higher grid prices.

Future modifications: Stick-built ceiling grids might be more appropriate if you frequently wish to expand or modify your cleanroom because they are simple to modify
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For your cleanroom, selecting between stick-built and modular ceiling grids is an important choice that affects building costs, schedules, and flexibility.

You may make an informed decision that guarantees your cleanroom operates optimally and maintains the required standards of cleanliness and contamination control for your industry by taking into account your unique cleanroom requirements, the timetable for the project, and your financial limits.

You Can Read Also: Why Modular Cleanrooms by Ziebaq?