When subsea telecommunications specialist Xtera Ltd required a new controlled environment for the production of innovative subsea telecommunication equipment, Connect 2 Cleanrooms was appointed to design and build a 114.7m² ISO class 7 monobloc cleanroom that achieves high standards of precision manufacturing.
A methodical approach to cleanroom design
From the outset, Connect 2 Cleanrooms applied their design and build expertise to ensure the new facility would integrate seamlessly into Xtera’s existing site. With increasing demands for speed, scalability, and flexibility, Xtera Ltd required a cleanroom solution to support their future innovations including robotics, automation, and smarter design. Connect 2 Cleanroom’s project team conducted detailed consultations to map out the production requirements and operational standards before designing and building commenced.
“We needed a cleanroom that could meet strict environmental requirements while giving us the flexibility to adapt as our production develops.” – (A representative from Xtera Ltd)
By working closely with Xtera Ltd and taking the time to fully understand the flow of cleanroom operators, processes, and materials, Connect 2 Cleanrooms ensured the design not only met ISO standards, but also enhanced operational efficiency.
A flexible, durable solution
With a need for fast prototyping and hands-on innovation, the new cleanroom facility supports Xtera Ltd’s production of specialised products and complex units. Maintaining set humidity and temperature levels to protect product integrity while achieving an ISO class 7 operating environment were a top priority. To support Xtera with achieving these requirements, Connect 2 Cleanrooms delivered a facility with the following key specifications:
- 114.7m² cleanroom: Including a main production area, an air lock, and a 3.5m² gowning area
- Decentralised air handling system: Allowing flexibility and convenient maintenance without affecting the entire facility
- Temperature and humidity control: Achieving 20°C (+/- 2°C) and ≤40% R/H
- Two sliding doors: Fitted for entry and exit of air lock area, allowing for easy and convenient material transfer
- Monobloc installation: Constructed using monobloc versatile flush panels with three semi-flush windows, maintaining high levels of cleanliness and environmental control
A representative from Xtera Ltd stated:
“Connect 2 Cleanrooms worked closely with our team to understand the technical challenges of subsea telecommunications manufacturing, particularly around humidity control and protection of optical fibre components. This installation was carried out efficiently and with clear communication throughout.
The decentralised air handling system gives us confidence that we can maintain stable conditions without disrupting operations, and the facility has already become an important part of our UK engineering capacity. This new cleanroom enables us to support the production of complex subsea equipment, helping our engineers continue to innovate with confidence.”
