Comparing Fan Filter Units: Which FFU Is Right for You?

Fan filter units (FFUs) are essential components in cleanroom and controlled environment design, providing the filtered airflow needed to maintain ISO classification and contamination control. Technical Air Products offers four unique FFU models for a range of options tailored to different cleanroom needs: 

• SPX
• Energy Efficient (SPX-EE)
• Electronically Commutated (SPX-EC)
• High Horsepower (SPX-HP)

Comparing Our FFU Offerings

SPX FFU – The Reliable Standard

The SPX FFU is our standard fan filter unit and is designed to deliver a strong balance of performance, affordability, and quiet operation. Ideal for general cleanroom applications, the SPX reliably delivers over 700 CFM and is the most economical option in our FFU lineup.

The SPX FFU offers dependable, cost-effective clean air delivery for critical environments where performance and budget must align. Its modular design and optional upgrades make it adaptable to a range of cleanroom configurations. It is our go-to standard FFU and is engineered for quiet operation and budget-conscious projects.

SPX-EE – The Energy Efficient Choice

The SPX-EE is Technical Air Products’ energy-saving fan filter unit, engineered for cleanroom applications where power efficiency is a priority. It delivers more than 650 CFM while operating under 200 watts, making it ideal for facilities that run FFUs continuously and want to minimize energy costs without compromising cleanroom performance.

The SPX-EE provides an exceptional balance of airflow, efficiency, and adaptability, making it a top choice for modern cleanroom environments designed for sustainability and optimized power without the sacrifice of filtration performance. 

SPX-EC – The High-Tech, Automated Performer

The SPX-EC is Technical Air Products’ most advanced fan filter unit, offering high-performance airflow with automated control capabilities. Equipped with a 1/3 HP electronically commutated (EC) motor, the SPX-EC delivers 800 CFM and can automatically adjust its speed to maintain consistent airflow, even as filter resistance changes. It’s the ideal solution for cleanrooms requiring precise, programmable air management.

The SPX-EC offers the ultimate in intelligent cleanroom airflow management, combining performance, adaptability, and automation. It’s an ideal choice for critical environments where airflow precision and performance are top priorities.

SPX-HP – The High Horsepower Workhorse

The SPX-HP is Technical Air Products’ high-capacity fan filter unit, engineered for cleanroom applications that demand maximum airflow and minimal pressure drop, even with high-efficiency ULPA filters. Powered by a ½ horsepower permanent split capacitor (PSC) motor, this unit can deliver close to 1,000 CFM, making it ideal for high-performance cleanrooms.

The SPX-HP is the ultimate workhorse in the FFU lineup—delivering high airflow capacity and reliable performance, even in demanding cleanroom conditions. It’s the go-to solution when power and airflow cannot be compromised.

Which FFU is right for you?

	SPX	SPX-EE	SPX-EC	SPX-HP
Airflow (CFM)	700+	650+	800+	Up to 1,000
Motor Type	1/4 HP PSC	1/4 HP (Backward-curved blower)	1/3 HP EC (Electronically Commutated)	1/2 HP PSC
Watts (at 90 FPM)	384	202	353	832
Speed Control	Manual variable	Manual variable	Manual & Auto (programmable)	Manual variable
Voltage Options	120V std, 220V & 277V opt	120V (UL) std, 220V opt	120V std, 220V & 277V opt	120V std, 220V opt
Filter Type (Standard)	HEPA 99.99% @ 0.3μm	HEPA 99.99% @ 0.3μm	HEPA 99.99% @ 0.3μm	HEPA 99.99% @ 0.3μm
Optional Filters	ULPA, PTFE	ULPA, PTFE	ULPA, PTFE	ULPA, PTFE
Prefilter (Standard)	1″ ASHRAE, 30%	1″ ASHRAE, 30%	1″ ASHRAE, 30%	1″ ASHRAE, 30%
Prefilter Options	2″, 4″	2″, 4″	2″, 4″	2″, 4″
RSR (Room-Side Replaceable)	Optional	Optional	Optional	Optional
Face Screen Options	Expanded metal std; perf alum/SS opt	Expanded metal std; perf alum/SS opt	Expanded metal std; perf alum/SS opt	Expanded metal std; perf alum/SS opt
Housing	Powder-coated steel std; SS opt	Powder-coated steel std; SS opt	Powder-coated steel std; SS opt	Powder-coated steel std; SS opt
Best For	Cost-sensitive, standard cleanrooms	Energy-conscious, 24/7 ops	High-tech, automated cleanrooms	Max. airflow
Ideal Applications	ISO 4–8, general labs, pharma	ISO 4–8, LEED buildings, microelectronics	ISO 4–6, biotech, semiconductors	ISO 4, pharma, nanotech, aerospace
Key Benefits	Quiet, affordable, reliable	Higher airflow with low energy use	Auto-adjusts to maintain CFM	Handles high-resistance filters with ease
Performance Edge	Budget performance	Energy efficiency	Automation & control	High CFM & motor power

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right FFU depends on your cleanroom’s airflow requirements, energy goals, and environmental sensitivity. Whether you’re outfitting a high-performance pharmaceutical cleanroom, a budget-friendly ISO 8 environment, or a smart automated lab, Technical Air Products offers a fan filter unit to match.

Want to speak with an expert about which FFU fits your cleanroom? Contact us today or request a quote to get started.