Cleanroom Compatibility Study: FG Cleanroom Screwdriver

Mountz Torque was approached by a loyal Aerospace client seeking to enhance their productivity. The aerospace company employed light assembly electric torque screwdrivers in its assembly operation to construct power modules situated beneath the middle seat in each plane row, facilitating passenger device charging. With 64 boxes needed per aircraft, retrofitting an entire fleet demanded swift delivery of substantial cage volumes. Simultaneously, maintaining quality was paramount, with cross-threading posing a genuine risk. Any box failure could ground an aircraft, underscoring the necessity of prioritizing assembly product quality.

CASE STUDY CLEANROOM MANUFACTURING

CLEANROOM COMPATIBILITY STUDY: FG-20I CR-HVG PRESET TORQUE DRIVER FOR PRECISION OPTICS ASSEMBLY Tested by a customer in the Tier 1 Semiconductor Optics Industry In cleanroom-critical industries like Optics, Semiconductors, Aerospace, and Medical Devices precision and cleanliness are non-negotiable. Even microscopic particles or trace VOCs such as grease vapors can compromise system performance or cause permanent damage to sensitive components. Mountz collaborates directly with customers to validate tool compatibility for specific cleanroom applications. While we do not provide formal cleanroom certifications, our tools are designed to meet the cleanliness expectations of tightly controlled environments. This qualification represents a successful example of that approach in action. OVERVIEW Mountz partnered with a leading global semiconductor equipment manufacturer to evaluate the FG-20i CR-HVG Preset Cleanroom Torque Screwdriver for use in a precision optics assembly within a high-sensitivity cleanroom. The customer conducted independent testing to assess the tool’s performance during repeated use, with a focus on particulate generation and VOC outgassing. The application required strict contamination controls for components used in critical DUV (deep ultraviolet) optics, where VOC emissions must stay below 0.1 ng/L to meet acceptance criteria.

AT A GLANCE

CHALLENGES • Applications requiring strict contamination controls for

components used in critical DUV (deep ultraviolet) optics, where VOC emissions must stay below 0.1 ng/L • Issues with quality assurance due to contamination and grease leakage • Preventing over-torque events SOLUTIONS • Ultra-high vacuum grease using advanced polytetrafluoroethylene. • Tool with dynamic wear-resistant internal seals • Cam-over technology limits the amount of force applied RESULTS • VOC outgassing levels below the 0.1 ng/L threshold • Preventing airborne contamination & grease leakage • Precision and accuracy - ensursing correct torque is applied

CASE STUDY CLEANROOM MANUFACTURING

TOOLS DESIGNED FOR CLEANROOM USE While Mountz cleanroom tools are engineered to contain grease, a small risk of vapor escape exists when using conventional lubricants. For highly sensitive environments, we recommend our Cleanroom High-Vacuum Grease torque screwdrivers which feature a specialized grease characterized by ultra-low vapor pressure. Fastening processes can inherently generate particles due to friction at the bit-screw interface. While components may be cleaned post-assembly, tools themselves can become contamination sources if they shed particles or transfer grease. There’s also risk of cross-contamination via gloves if external tool surfaces are compromised. The FG-20i CR-HVG mitigates these risks through sealed construction, non-shedding materials, and cleanroom-rated lubrication—ensuring cleanliness is maintained at both the workpiece and operator level. TEST CONFIGURATION • Model: FG-20i CR-HVG • Torque Setting: 15 lbf•in • Grease: High-vacuum lubricant (ultra-low vapor pressure) • Application: Precision optics assembly • Environment: Controlled cleanroom for DUV component handling (<0.1 ng/L) • Comparison: Standard click-type torque wrench • Protocol: ~53 manual turns + 40 torque applications (20 repetitions on two screws) RESULTS SUMMARY The Mountz FG-20i CR-HVG was subjected to repeated fastening actions and evaluated for particle generation and VOC outgassing, both critical factors in maintaining the integrity of high-sensitivity cleanroom environments. Performance was benchmarked against the customer’s existing production click-type torque wrench.

Mountz offers HVG cleanroom screwdrivers with a specialized ultra- high vacuum and exceptionally low vapor pressure to prevent further airborne contamination and sustain lubrication performance.

TUBE NO.

VOC RT>2 (NG/L)

SAMPLE

REMARK

0001

Reference

0.035

Passed.

0002

FG-20i CR-HVG (10x)

0.088

Passed. No obvious contamination. Passed. No obvious contamination. Failed. Hydrocarbons detected.

0003

FG-20i CR-HVG (20x)

0.101

0004

Standard Click Wrench

0.647

CASE STUDY CLEANROOM MANUFACTURING

Conclusion The FG-20i CR-HVG successfully met the customer’s cleanliness standards. While measurable VOC outgassing was detected, levels remained below the 0.1 ng/L threshold, confirming compliance. In contrast, the customer’s existing tool failed VOC criteria under the same conditions, indicating a higher contamination risk. As a result, the FG-20i CR-HVG was qualified by this customer for use in their production process. Supporting Cleanroom Compliance For manufacturers seeking tools that balance precision torque delivery with verified cleanroom performance, Mountz cleanroom screwdrivers provide a proven solution. To support cleanroom compatibility for other applications, Mountz recommends customers share the following: • Use environment and VOC sensitivity • Cleaning and sterilization methods (e.g., alcohol wipes, solvents, high-temperature processes) and cleaning frequency (e.g., after each use, daily, weekly) • Allowable materials or restricted substances

APPLY THESE IDEAS • Prevent grease leakage and minimize airborne contamination by implemeting cleanroom tools • For highly sensitive environments that require VOC emissions below 0.1 ng/L, use a Cleanroom High-Vacuum Grease torque screwdriver • Reduce scrap rates by eliminating fastener breakage issues and ensuring correct torque is applied with a cam-over torque screwdriver • Enhance process reliability with a preset torque screwdriver for fastening applications where operators repeatedly assemble parts at the same torque setting

ABOUT MOUNTZ Mountz, The Torque Tool Specialists ® , has been a leader in the torque tool industry for more than 60 years. Engineered in the Silicon Valley and serving the globe, Mountz focuses on delivering high-quality torque products, services, and solutions to ensure customers can always proceed with confidence. We are committed to forging a safer world through precision and accuracy, and by innovating every day. SILICON VALLEY HEADQUARTERS AND SERVICE CENTER INTERNATIONAL For inquiries outside of the USA,

1080 N. 11th St., San Jose, CA 95112 408-292-2214 / M–F 6am–5pm PST ALABAMA DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE CENTER 19051 Underwood Road, Foley, AL 36535

Canada, and Mexico, please contact: international@mountztorque.com Phone: +44 1428 741756

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