The technical foundations of cleanroom lifting solutions

The typical starting point

In  many projects, the initial request is straightforward: a load must be lifted inside a cleanroom. The weight is known, the overall dimensions usually as well. Other parameters are still undefined.
That is a logical and realistic starting point.

In cleanrooms, a crane is not a standalone lifting device. It is an integrated part of the production process.

As a result, design choices directly influence:
•  Particle generation
•  Cleanability and surface quality
•  ESD behaviour
•  Stability and positioning accuracy
•  Validation and documentation

The challenge rarely lies in the act of lifting itself, but in the interaction between the lifting system and the controlled process environment. 

The foundation: configuration, materials and integration

The general whitepaper whitepaper Make the right choice for your cleanroom crane describes three key focus areas:
• Configuration of lifting and hoisting solutions
• Material selection and surface treatment
• Electrical components and system integration.

It addresses differences between wet and dry industries, coating behaviour, IP classifications, positioning control and software integration. The document functions as a technical framework during the design phase.

Pharmaceutical industry: contamination control and validation

In pharmaceutical cleanrooms, GMP compliance, cleanability and process control are central. Particle contamination and cross-contamination must be prevented.

The pharma whitepaper addresses:
•  Material selection in dry production environments.
•  Surface treatment and cleaning strategy.
•  ATEX risks in powder handling.
•  Documentation and maintenance requirements aligned with GMP.

Here, the cleanroom crane is positioned as part of the controlled transfer system, supporting hygienic and compliant production.

Food industry: cleanability in washdown environments

In food processing environments, corrosion resistance and hygienic design are decisive. Cleaning procedures are often wet and may involve aggressive cleaning agents.

The food whitepaper provides insight into:
•  Stainless steel versus coated steel constructions.
•  Surface finishes such as blasting and polishing.
•  Elimination of hollow spaces.
•  Hygiene- and ATEX-related aspects

These factors help determine when a fully stainless steel design is required and when technically justified alternatives are possible.

Semiconductor: precision and particle control

The semiconductor industry operates under extremely strict contamination control requirements. Wafers are highly vulnerable; even microscopic particles can affect chip performance.
In ISO 5–8 cleanrooms, minimal particle generation and repeatable lifting processes are essential.

The semiconductor whitepaper emphasizes:
• Minimization of particle generation, including wear-related particles.
• The limitations of conventional chain hoists.
• The use of specially developed belt or rope hoists.
• Controlled and reproducible lifting movements.
• Integration with software and remote management.

In this environment, lifting capacity is not the primary concern. Contamination behaviour and system predictability are leading specification criteria.

Dyneema sling: when synthetic lifting makes sense

 The knowledge paper on Dyneema sling systems highlights technical advantages relevant for cleanrooms:
•  No lubrication required, reducing particle generation.
•  Minimal stretch and predictable lifting behaviour.
• Low self-weight.
• Compact reeving and space efficiency

For applications requiring high positioning accuracy and process stability, synthetic sling systems can provide a technically justified alternative to traditional chain or wire rope hoists. 

Specifying a cleanroom lifting solution without insight into contamination behaviour, material selection and process integration increases the risk of redesign and validation issues.
The available whitepapers provide technical depth per sector and application. They support a structured approach to the design, replacement or expansion of lifting systems in cleanrooms and controlled environments.

Specific questions about lifting solutions in a cleanroom environment?
A technical expert is available to discuss a suitable lifting solution. Please contact us via the contact form at the bottom of the page.