📌 Pharmaceutical AHU and HVAC Components

In pharmaceuticals, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems are critical for maintaining controlled environments in cleanrooms, production areas, and laboratories to ensure GMP compliance, product quality, and patient safety.

🔹 Major Components of AHU (Air Handling Unit)

1. Casing / Housing – Enclosure that holds all components.

2. Air Filters

   • Pre-filters (remove larger particles, e.g., dust).

   • Fine filters (for smaller particles).

   • HEPA filters (≥99.97% efficiency at 0.3 µm).

3. Cooling Coil / Chilled Water Coil – Maintains required room temperature.

4. Heating Coil – For dehumidification and temperature control.

5. Humidifier / Dehumidifier – To maintain controlled relative humidity (RH).

6. Blower / Fan – Moves the conditioned air through ductwork.

7. Mixing Chamber – Mixes fresh air and return air.

8. Dampers – Control airflow (fresh air, return air, exhaust).

9. Drain Pan – Collects condensed water.

10. Sound Attenuators – Reduce noise and vibration.

11. Sensors & Controls – Monitor pressure, temperature, humidity, and air flow.

🔹 Key HVAC Components in Pharma Facilities

• Air Handling Units (AHUs)

• Ducting System (GI ducts, stainless steel ducts for clean areas)

• HEPA/ULPA Filters (at terminal outlets in cleanrooms)

• Diffusers & Grills (to distribute airflow uniformly)

• Variable Air Volume (VAV) Boxes

• Pressure Control Dampers (to maintain differential pressure)

• Chillers / Cooling Towers (for cooling water supply)

• Boilers / Hot Water Generators (for heating requirement)

• Building Management System (BMS) / SCADA (automation & monitoring)

🔹 Importance in Pharmaceuticals

• Maintain cleanroom classifications (Grade A, B, C, D).

• Ensure temperature & humidity control.

• Maintain differential pressure cascades to prevent contamination.

• Provide unidirectional airflow in critical zones.

• Comply with regulatory guidelines (USFDA, EU GMP, WHO).