Case Study: Amundsen Ship Cleanroom

PROJECT

Design and construction of a 60-square-foot trace metals cleanroom project

INDUSTRY

Research and Development

CLASSIFICATION

ISO 6

Architectural System

Glass-fiber-reinforced plastic

A LITTLE MORE ABOUT THE AMUNDSEN SHIP

The CCGS Amundsen is a Canadian Coast Guard icebreaker that has been completely converted into a scientific research vessel. Operated in partnership with Laval University, it serves as an essential platform for the study of northern and Arctic environments. Thanks to its specialized laboratories, the ship enables the examination, processing, and analysis of ice cores in a controlled environment free of trace metals. This unique facility provides researchers with a precise and stable working environment, which is essential for measuring changes in ice, contaminants, and ecosystems in the Far North. As part of this high-precision research, Consab designed and built an ISO 6 trace-metal cleanroom specifically tailored to the needs of the scientists and the ship.

SPECIAL FEATURES AND CHALLENGES

Working in a very confined space, which limits movement, material handling, and team coordination;
Handling and installing wall panels in a confined space, requiring great precision and rigorous planning;
Selecting and integrating specific materials free of any trace metals, which is essential for meeting the requirements of a trace-metal-free environment;

Design and construction of a cleanroom capable of withstanding the ship’s movements, including vibrations, load variations, and rolling at sea;
Adaptation of installation and mounting methods to ensure stability, airtightness, and ISO 6 performance in a constantly moving environment;
Close coordination to ensure that the cleanroom remains compliant despite the structural constraints of a research vessel in operation.

“Consab transformed our vision into a concrete, high-performance solution aboard the CCGS Amundsen. Their expertise in controlled environments and their ability to adapt to the constraints of a research vessel contributed greatly to the project’s success.”

Luc Michaud Department Head

AMUNDSEN SHIP

Arctic, Canada

A LITTLE MORE ABOUT THE AMUNDSEN SHIP

SPECIAL FEATURES AND CHALLENGES

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