The main structure of the clean shelter typically has a service life of 5 to 15 years. The core components (filters, fans) need to be replaced regularly. The overall lifespan is greatly influenced by the material, environment, and maintenance.
1. Service life of the main structure (based on material)
| Frame / Enclosure Material | Applicable scenarios | Vida útil normal | Influencing factors |
| Stainless steel frame (304/316) | Medicine, food, high humidity / corrosive environments | 10th – 15th year | Resistant to acid and alkali, with high strength and the longest lifespan |
| Aluminum alloy frame | Electronics, laboratory, conventional cleanliness | 8th – 12th year | Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and with high cost-effectiveness. |
| Galvanized steel / powder-coated iron frame | Temporary, low-cost, dry environment | 5-8 years | Prone to rusting, lifespan is significantly shortened in humid environments. |
| Hard protective enclosure (tempered glass / stainless steel plate) | High cleanliness, long-term use | More than ten years | Durable, easy to clean, and resistant to aging |
| Soft drapes (PVC / polyester) | Temporary, infrequent, non-critical areas | 3-5 years | Prone to aging and deterioration, requiring frequent replacement |
II. Replacement Cycle of Core Components (Determining Cleanliness and Operating Life)
High-efficiency Filters (HEPA/ULPA): 2-3 years (in normal environment); 1 year or even shorter in dusty/high-humidity environments.
Primary / Intermediate Filters: Replace or clean every 3-6 months.
FFU Fans / Motors: 5-8 years; Regular maintenance can extend it.
Control System / Sensors: 5-10 years; Dependent on the aging of electronic components and maintenance conditions.
III. Key Factors Affecting Service Life
Operating Environment: Moisture, acids, alkalis, vibration will significantly shorten the lifespan.
Maintenance: Regular replacement of filters, cleaning, leak detection, calibration can extend the life by 30%-50%.
Usage Frequency: Continuous 24-hour operation is shorter than intermittent operation.
Installation Quality: Inadequate sealing and turbulent airflow will accelerate component wear.
IV. Life Determination and Replacement Suggestions
Main Structure: When the frame shows rust, the enclosure is damaged, and the seal fails and cannot be repaired, it is recommended to replace the entire unit.
Insufficient Cleanliness: Even after replacing the filters, if the requirements are not met, it indicates system aging and requires an assessment for renovation or reconstruction.
Economic Threshold: When the maintenance cost exceeds 60%-70% of the construction cost, it is recommended to replace.
V. Core Measures to Extend Life
Establish maintenance records, replace filters, clean FFU, and test pressure difference and cleanliness at regular intervals.
Control environmental temperature and humidity to prevent corrosive gases from entering.
Perform a complete integrity test (leak detection, air velocity, pressure difference) once every six months.
