Draper Microfab Cleanroom Consolidation

Since 2011, SMRT has provided engineering and architectural services to Draper Laboratories, with a focus on ICD 705 secure spaces and controlled environments.

SMRT’s first project was to consolidate selected research onto a single floor. The goal was to create ISO 4-7 cleanrooms that would enable MEMS and multi-chip module R&D. Designed within an existing 1970s-era office building, the bay and chase layout had to overcome challenges in ceiling height, dispersed utilities, air entrainment, asbestos, hazardous production materials, and waste disposal. Design of the make-up air system included modeling rooftop air entrainment and relocating and consolidating various process exhaust streams throughout the complex.

The fast-track renovation occurred in an urban site constricted building in Technology Square, Cambridge, housing more than 1,000 employees. Draper creates advanced technologies in strategic systems, national security, space, energy, health, and commercial applications to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges.

Client

Draper Laboratory

Location

Cambridge, MA

Square Feet

12,000

Completion Year

2013

Draper develops advanced technologies for the world’s pressing challenges in strategic systems, national security, space, energy, health and commercial applications.

Late design changes included wet benches with closed storage underneath, blocking airflow. SMRT utilized computational fluid dynamic (CFD) modeling to find a solution. This modeling identified additional fan-powered HEPA filters and return grille placement.

Process support infrastructure included specialty gas delivery improvements, including new toxic gas monitoring systems (TGMS).

Informed by air entrainment modeling, the project scope included consolidating process exhaust streams. High-plume fan sets were strategically located remotely from new make-up air intake louvers, which are integral to an expanded mechanical penthouse.