Comparison of AHU, PAU and MAU in Clean Room HVAC System Design
In the design of HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems for clean rooms, the selection of key equipment such as AHU (Air Handling Unit), PAU (Primary Air Handling Unit), and MAU (Make-up Air Unit) plays a crucial role.
Each type has its own advantages and limitations, and the process of comparing them is essential to ensure effective and high-performance system operation. Let's explore these three devices through the following article
1. AHU (Air Handling Unit) - Air Processing Equipment for Clean Rooms
AHU (short for Air Handling Unit) is a unit that processes air. Its primary function is to supply air and return air while controlling temperature and the supply air volume to maintain temperature, pressure, and cleanliness levels in the room through HEPA filters.
2. PAU (Primary Air Handling Unit)
PAU (short for Primary Air Handling Unit) typically processes preliminary fresh air, which is then delivered to AHU and FCU. This equipment does not have a cooling function; cooling the room air requires additional cooling equipment. PAU is not a standalone unit and must be combined with other cooling devices. Typically, the supply air temperature is maintained between 22 to 29 degrees, depending on the technology used to connect different cooling devices to complete the system.
3. MAU (Make-up Air Unit)
MAU (short for Make-up Air Unit) is used in laboratories and areas with potential air contaminants, viruses, and other harmful substances. It exhausts a significant amount of air from the room to prevent cross-contamination and potential health hazards to personnel working in the area. This unit supplies 100% fresh air to the room and removes most of the air inside. It uses a variable frequency drive system, delivers air in a mist form, provides substantial cooling capacity, quickly reduces room temperature, and eliminates the need for additional cooling equipment in the room. It can operate independently. The cooling capacity of the external machine is adjusted automatically based on the continuously changing outdoor fresh air temperature. Typically, the supply air temperature can be reduced to as low as 12 degrees.
If you need information and advice on MAU, PAU, AHU, and air processing equipment for clean rooms, please contact VCR Clean Room Equipment.
For detailed drawings of AHU, PAU, and MAU, you can access the following link:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Q148ZQHj72QKSStgQAWYkmstY3tirADg?usp=sharing
