Lighthouse SOLAIR 1100LD Airborne Particle Counter Q&A

What are the most important considerations when setting up and validating the SOLAIR 1100LD in a cleanroom environment?

Successful setup starts with understanding the airflow design and cleanliness validation of the space. The SOLAIR 1100LD should be placed in locations that represent critical operations or highest risk of contamination. Positioning the intake properly—away from HVAC turbulence or direct personnel flow—ensures representative sampling. Validation involves confirming particle levels fall within the acceptable range levels defined by ISO 14644-1 standards for the designated classification, supporting regulatory compliance and environmental control.

Why might a company choose to rent a particle counter rather than to purchase one outright?

Renting a particle counter is a practical choice for short-term needs like certifications and audits by reducing the burden of managing upkeep and offering flexibility for projects that don’t require constant monitoring. Particle counters must also be calibrated annually, and the calibration service is proprietary to the manufacturer. Calibration typically takes 4-8 weeks and costs an average of $3000. This would be avoided with a rental.

What are some common challenges technicians face when using a particle counter, and how can they overcome them?

Technicians sometimes place the unit incorrectly, which creates data skewed by airflow disturbances. They might also forget to zero the unit or select the wrong flow rate. Facilities can prevent these problems by training staff thoroughly and enforcing cleanroom-specific protocols.

In which scenarios does it make sense to temporarily bring in a particle counter for certification or compliance audits?

Facilities undergoing ISO or USP certification, remodeling cleanroom space, or conducting pre-inspection quality checks benefit from short-term use of a particle counter. Third-party auditors or internal quality teams often rely on portable particle counters to validate compliance during specific phases of a project without investing in permanent equipment. A company’s Standard Operating Procedure might specify the manufacturer and model number for performing certification. This is why ATEC has a selection of all manufacturers and models available to rent.

How does renting a particle counter help manage calibration, maintenance, and storage concerns?

Rental units arrive fully calibrated with documentation, which ensures traceability for audits. Companies avoid the administrative task of tracking due dates, costs, and downtime for scheduling calibration of equipment. When the unit is no longer needed, it is returned to the owner, making rentals an efficient solution for time-bound testing requirements.

What factors should be considered when preparing a cleanroom space for particle counting?

Before sampling, make sure the HVAC system is up and running to maintain proper airflow and pressure differentials, and limit foot traffic in the area to reduce particle disturbances. Follow thorough cleaning protocols to avoid false particle spikes. Choose sampling locations based on a validation plan which targets critical operations and high-risk contamination zones, ensuring results are representative of actual cleanroom conditions.

Why is it crucial to use a certified and calibrated particle counter for regulatory compliance?

Using a certified and properly calibrated particle counter is essential to meet ISO 14644 requirements and USP chapters such as <797> and <800>. These instruments ensure your particle count data is accurate, traceable, and defensible—especially during audits or inspections. Relying on unverified equipment can lead to invalid results, costly retesting, or even regulatory penalties, putting product integrity and compliance at risk.

How can staff training improve the efficiency and accuracy of particle counting during cleanroom setup and certification?

Proper training ensures staff can operate equipment effectively and interpret results accurately. This enhances data reliability and facilitates timely identification of trends. Well-prepared personnel also strengthen documentation practices and improve audit outcomes.