Introduction to the CRF3 Cleanroom Fogger
The CRF3 Cleanroom Fogger represents a significant advancement in cleanroom testing technology, offering facilities managers and quality assurance professionals a reliable solution for airflow visualization and smoke studies.
Manufactured by Applied Physics USA, this ultrasonic fogger utilizes advanced piezoelectric technology to generate pure fog for critical environment testing applications.
Cleanroom airflow testing is essential for maintaining regulatory compliance and ensuring proper contamination control.
The CRF3 delivers consistent performance at an accessible price point, making it ideal for facilities ranging from pharmaceutical compounding areas to semiconductor manufacturing environments.
CRF3 Cleanroom Fogger and how it works
The CRF3 Cleanroom Fogger uses 25 piezoelectric devices to convert DI water into 8-10 micron fog particles through ultrasonic cavitation. It produces fog at 0.89 cubic meters/minute with 133.57 ml/minute density.
Fog volume and velocity are adjustable via touchpad or remote. Made of 316L stainless steel, it runs 70 minutes on 9.5 liters of water and has a 10-foot visibility.
Used for cleanroom smoke studies to visualize airflow in biosafety cabinets and ISO environments for USP 797/800 and ISO 14644-3 compliance, its minimal-residue fog suits critical environments requiring particulate control.
Key Technical Specifications
The CRF3 Cleanroom Fogger delivers impressive performance metrics that make it suitable for a wide range of testing applications:
- Fog Output Volume: Approximately 0.89 cubic meters per minute
- Fog Density: 133.57 ml of water converted to fog per minute
- Operating Duration: Approximately 70 minutes of continuous operation
- Visible Fog Distance: Up to 10 feet of visibility
- Water Capacity: 9.5 liters (compatible with DI, WFI, or sterile water)
- Construction: 316L stainless steel with electro-polished finish
- Power Requirements: Compatible with 120VAC, 220VAC, or 100VAC
- Weight (Full): Approximately 55 lbs
- Fog Output Configuration: Single 80mm diameter fog hose (5 meters length)
Understanding the Function of a Cleanroom Fogger
Airflow Visualization
Generates visible fog to reveal air movement patterns and flow directions in controlled environments.
Compliance Testing
Supports regulatory requirements, including USP 797/800 guidelines and ISO 14644-3 standards through documented smoke studies.
Contamination Control Assessment
Identifies potential areas where airborne particles might accumulate or breach containment.
Turbulence Detection
Reveals disruptions in laminar airflow that could compromise sterile conditions.
Leak Detection
Identifies breaches in HEPA filtration systems, barrier isolators, or containment areas.
Air Balance Verification
Confirms proper pressure differentials between adjacent spaces.
Equipment Qualification
Validates proper function of biosafety cabinets, fume hoods, and isolators.
Validation Documentation
Provides visual evidence for certification and regulatory inspections.
Process Improvement
Helps identify and correct airflow design flaws before they affect production.
Understanding Fog Volume Capabilities
The CRF3 Cleanroom Fogger generates fog at a rate of 0.89 cubic meters per minute using 25 ultrasonic transducers, providing visibility up to 10 feet and enabling continuous operation for 70 minutes.
Fog volume and velocity can be adjusted via touchpad or wireless remote, allowing testing to be customized according to various smoke study requirements.
By comparison, the AP35 Ultrapure Fogger and AP100 LN2 Fogger produce higher fog volumes at 5.5 and 15.5 cubic meters per minute.
Respectively, but the CRF3 remains an ideal solution for BSCs, fume hoods, and small cleanrooms due to its cost-effectiveness and user-friendly controls.
Applications and Testing Standards
Industry Applications
The CRF3 Cleanroom Fogger is designed to support critical testing requirements across multiple industries:
- Pharmaceutical Manufacturing: Visualization of airflow in ISO-classified suites
- Compounding Pharmacies: USP 797/800 compliance testing
- Semiconductor Fabrication: Cleanroom qualification and monitoring
- Medical Device Production: Quality assurance testing
- Research Laboratories: BSC and fume hood certification
- Healthcare Facilities: Sterile processing area verification
Regulatory Compliance Support
This fogger supports testing protocols required by key industry standards:
- USP 797/800: In-situ airflow analysis for compounding pharmacies
- ISO 14644-3, Annex B7: Airflow visualization testing for cleanrooms
- ISO 14644-3, Annex B12: Airflow recovery testing
- NSF 49: Biosafety cabinet certification requirements
- Federal Standard 209E: Legacy cleanroom classification
- Semi-Standards: Semiconductor industry guidelines
Performance Comparison With Other Fogger Technologies
Understanding how the CRF3 compares to other fogger technologies helps determine the appropriate solution for specific testing requirements:
CRF3 vs. LN2 Ultrapure Foggers
LN2 Foggers (like the AP35 and AP100) offer:
- Higher fog purity through the nitrogen and water molecule combination
- Greater fog volume (5-15.5 cubic meters per minute)
- Longer visible distance (20-40 feet)
- Suitable for Class 1-10,000 environments
- Significantly higher cost
CRF3 Advantages:
- No liquid nitrogen handling requirements
- Lower initial investment
- Easier operation and setup
- Adjustable fog volume and velocity
CRF3 vs. CO2 Foggers
CO2 Foggers offer:
- No electrical requirements
- Suitable for hazardous areas
- Simple operation
CRF3 Advantages:
- Longer operation time (70 min vs. 10-12 min)
- Consistent fog output throughout operation
- Minimal airflow distortion
- Adjustable output parameters
- Greater visible distance
Who Should Consider the CRF3 Cleanroom Fogger?
The CRF3 is particularly well-suited for:
- Facilities with Budget Constraints: Delivers excellent performance at a lower price point
- Mid-Size Testing Applications: Ideal for fume hoods, BSCs, and medium-sized clean areas
- Class 10 or Higher Environments: Appropriate for ISO 5 and higher classifications
- Facilities Requiring Regular Testing: Quick setup and operation for routine testing
- Organizations with Multiple Test Locations: Portable design facilitates movement between areas
Installation and Operation Best Practices
For optimal performance and safety when using the CRF3 Cleanroom Fogger:
- Proper Placement: Position on a flat, stable surface on its feet
- Water Selection: Use only 16 Megohm DI water, WFI, or sterile water
- Filling Procedure: Do not overfill beyond the maximum fill line
- Environmental Considerations: Keep away from electrical appliances and water-sensitive equipment
- Post-Use Maintenance: Drain completely after use and dry the water cavity using the internal fan
- Storage Requirements: Store in a clean, dry location; consider the optional rolling carry case
Benefits of using the CRF3 cleanroom fogger in smoke studies
Consistent Performance
Delivers reliable fog output for approximately 70 minutes, enabling complete testing without interruption.
Precise Control
Adjustable fog volume and velocity through touchpad and wireless remote allow customization to specific testing requirements.
Low Turbulence Impact
Minimal airflow distortion compared to CO2 foggers, resulting in more accurate airflow visualization.
Pure Fog Generation
Uses DI water, WFI, or sterile water to produce clean fog suitable for Class 10 and higher environments.
Regulatory Compliance
Supports USP 797/800, ISO 14644-3 (Annex B7/B12), NSF 49, and Federal Standards 209E requirements for formal validation.
Cost-Effectiveness
Lower investment compared to LN2 ultrapure foggers while providing superior performance to CO2 alternatives.
Immediate Operation
Instant on/off capability with no warm-up period needed, saving valuable testing time.
Remote Operation Capability
Wireless control enables operation behind barriers or walls for testing in isolated environments.
Cleanroom-Compatible Design
316L stainless steel construction with electro-polished finish minimizes particulate generation.
Versatile Application Range
Suitable for BSCs, barrier isolators, fume hoods, glove boxes, and ISO-classified cleanrooms.
Dimensions and fog droplet size details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Fogger Dimensions | - Length: 12 inches - Width: 8 inches - Height: 10 inches |
| Weight | Approximately 6 kg |
| Fog Droplet Size | - Average Droplet Size: 1-10 microns - Suitable for ISO Class 10+ areas |
| Material | 316L Stainless Steel with electro-polished finish |
| Fog Output Rate | Adjustable output ranging from low to high volume |
Can the CRF3 cleanroom fogger be used with LN2 and ultrapure solutions?
The CRF3 Cleanroom Fogger cannot be used with LN2 (liquid nitrogen) as it exclusively operates through ultrasonic cavitation with DI water, WFI, or sterile water only; using any other liquids voids the warranty.
While it accepts ultrapure water solutions, it doesn't create true "ultrapure fog" since it lacks the heating mechanism found in dedicated LN2 foggers like the 2001 LN2 Fogger or AP100 model.
For applications requiring LN2-based fog generation or true ultrapure fog, the AP35 Ultrapure Fogger or AP100 LN2 UltraPure Fogger would be the appropriate equipment choices instead of the CRF3.
How to use sterile water or WFI for fog generation
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Accepted Water Types | - Sterile Water - Water for Injection (WFI) - DI (Deionized) Water |
| Preparation Requirements | - Water must be free from contaminants. - Ensure compliance with cleanroom standards. |
| Benefits of Using Sterile Water | - Produces clean fog suitable for ISO Class 10+ environments. - Avoids particulate contamination. |
| Fog Generation Process | - Add water to the fogger reservoir. - Adjust fog volume and velocity as required. |
| Applications | - Airflow visualization in cleanrooms. - Testing in sterile environments. |
The Science Behind Ultrasonic Fog Generation
The CRF3 utilizes ultrasonic cavitation technology to produce fog particles:
- Piezoelectric Transducers: 25 specialized devices vibrate at ultrasonic frequencies
- Cavitation Process: Vibrations create microscopic water vapor particles (~8-10 microns)
- Particle Characteristics: Small enough to follow airflow patterns without significant distortion
- Temperature Effects: Fog temperature is slightly lower than ambient, creating a momentary sinking effect
Maintenance and Longevity Considerations
To ensure the longest possible service life:
- Transducer Life: Approximately 3,000 hours of operation
- Water Quality: Using only specified water types prevents mineral buildup
- Regular Cleaning: Prevents contamination and maintains performance
- Proper Storage: Prevents damage when not in use
- Avoiding Stagnant Water: Never leave water in the system during storage.
Conclusion
The CRF3 Cleanroom Fogger represents an optimal balance of performance, precision, and value for smoke studies in controlled environments. With its 316L stainless steel construction, adjustable fog controls, and compatibility with multiple industry standards.
Including USP 797, ISO 14644-3, and Federal Standards 209E, this system delivers reliable airflow visualization for up to 70 minutes per operation.
While not matching the fog volume of LN2-based systems, the CRF3's ultrasonic technology, remote operation capability, and minimal turbulence impact make it an ideal solution for fume hoods, BSCs, barrier isolators, and small to medium cleanroom applications where cost-effectiveness and ease of use are priorities.
FAQs
1. What makes the CRF3 Cleanroom Fogger suitable for pharmaceutical cleanroom applications?
The CRF3 is compatible with USP 797/800 guidelines and uses only DI, WFI, or sterile water to produce particulate-free fog through ultrasonic cavitation, meeting stringent cleanroom requirements while providing adjustable fog volume and velocity for precise airflow testing.
2. How does the CRF3 differ from LN2-based foggers like the AP35 or AP100?
The CRF3 uses ultrasonic technology rather than liquid nitrogen, producing less fog volume (0.89 vs 5.5-15.5 cubic meters/minute) and shorter visibility distance (10 vs 20-40 feet), but offers advantages in cost, ease of operation, and elimination of LN2 handling requirements.
3. What water types are compatible with the CRF3 fogger?
The CRF3 is designed to work exclusively with DI (De-Ionized) water, WFI (Water For Injection), or sterile water. Using any other liquids or chemicals voids the warranty and may damage the unit.
4. What is the fog output duration, and how quickly can the CRF3 be refilled for continuous operation?
The CRF3 provides approximately 70 minutes of continuous fog operation at 0.89 cubic meters per minute. It features easy refilling of its 9.5-liter water reservoir, allowing for quick turnaround between test cycles with minimal downtime.
5. How does the CRF3 support regulatory compliance testing?
The system supports airflow visualization tests for ISO 14644-3 Annex B7, 100:1 Airflow Recovery Tests (ISO 14644-3, B12), USP 797/800 guidelines, NSF 49 standards for Bio-Safety Cabinets, and Federal Standards 209E, making it versatile for various compliance requirements.