Sara Pascale: “Our Gorgonzola facility will soon have a fully operational environment”

Work is progressing at a fast pace to equip Visiorobotics’ Milan-area facility with a clean room: a space where not only the company’s own technicians will be able to carry out day-to-day development work on internal projects, but customers will also have the opportunity to experience innovative solutions and machinery first-hand, working side by side with staff to develop solutions tailored to their specific needs. Sara Pascale gives us an update on how the work is coming along.

How is the clean room installation progressing?

“The perimeter walls have been erected, and the roof panel will be put in place very shortly — though it will remain removable whenever needed. We are waiting for the delivery of the HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters to be fitted into the housings already in position, so we can complete the final insulation work and the ventilation checks. The electrical conduit runs are ready to accommodate the 220V and 380V power connections as well as the ethernet network. The necessary pipework has also been installed to ensure pneumatic actuation for the machines that require it. The technicians are now working on the fire suppression system, sensors, internal power distribution panels and external electrical switchboards. Finally, the flooring has been completed — another key element before internal fit-out of the clean room can begin.”

Are there specific requirements to be met when it comes to the materials used?

“Beyond the high baseline quality — both in terms of materials and construction — it is essential to comply with specific requirements. The pipework, for instance, must meet precise criteria regarding the composition, properties and performance levels of the steel used. The same applies to the floor, which — after the bonding pre-treatment — has had multiple layers of self-levelling epoxy resin applied: a specific solution that needs several days to cure properly in order to achieve optimal sealing and durability. As with other elements in the room, materials must be used whose chemical composition prevents abrasion, cracking or the release of unsuitable substances, even when subjected to vibration or stress. Ease of cleaning is also an important consideration.”

Much like a healthcare environment, then…

“Exactly — and, not coincidentally, the same kind of mechanical details are required: such as coved skirting along the walls, which eliminates sharp corners where dust particles or inert particulate could accumulate. At the same time, it is equally important to ensure that any cleaning products used do not compromise the structural integrity or chemical stability of the materials.”

So you essentially need to take precautions against your precautions?

“Consider that, on top of all the requirements specific to an ISO Class 6 clean room, the most stringent workplace safety regulations must also be observed — without, however, making day-to-day operations impractical. The doors are a good example: we will be fitting high-efficiency entry and exit systems to maintain the integrity of the controlled area, but these must of course meet all design, installation and maintenance requirements set out under European safety regulations. A special four-panel sectional door will also be installed for the movement of machinery and materials.”

Once the structure is complete, will it need to be coated with specific materials?

“The prefabricated elements already consist of panels treated with dust-resistant compounds, so the only additional care will involve the joints and load-bearing sections. That said, attention must be paid to every component within the clean room: the ceiling light fixtures, which will need to meet specific lighting requirements, will be fitted into dedicated housings designed to prevent dust accumulation. The same careful approach will apply to the changing areas, where the wearing of shoe covers and dedicated overalls will be mandatory. Here too, though, safety regulations must not be overlooked — from operator lighting requirements to personal protective equipment such as safety footwear.”

Quite a number of small details to keep on top of, then…

“But also a source of great satisfaction. The technicians we have worked with have been extremely helpful and well-prepared. The thought that the clean room will soon be up and running — also thanks to them — is genuinely exciting. By the end of April or early May, we may well be ready for the necessary testing and certification. We will then move on to fitting out the space with the appropriate furnishings — stainless steel, of course — and to bringing in the first machines. We can’t wait!”