CONTROLLED ENVIRONMENT SYSTEMS
Engineered solutions for pressure-controlled, isolated, and contamination-sensitive processes in laboratory and industrial applications.
See Featured Controlled Environment Systems
Choose a system to explore configurations, materials, and technical specifications.
Overview
Controlled Environment Systems are designed to provide isolated, pressure-managed enclosures for processes that require stable atmospheric conditions, contamination control, or vacuum operation.
These systems include vacuum chambers and gloveboxes, each serving specific process requirements. Vacuum chambers enable air removal and pressure reduction for applications such as degassing, leak testing, and sample conditioning under low-pressure environments. Gloveboxes, on the other hand, maintain controlled atmospheres—typically using inert gases like nitrogen—to protect sensitive materials from oxygen, moisture, or external contamination.
Both systems are built with airtight sealing mechanisms and integrated control components to ensure repeatable internal conditions and process reliability. Depending on the application, configurations may support vacuum operation, positive pressure environments, or inert gas purging.
GLOVEBOXES FOR CONTROLLED ATMOSPHERE PROCESSING
Sealed containment systems designed for particle-free, low-humidity, and oxygen-controlled environments in laboratory and cleanroom applications.
Overview
Sapphire Cleanrooms gloveboxes are enclosed isolation systems designed to provide a controlled internal atmosphere for handling sensitive materials and processes.
The system operates under positive pressure and utilizes inert gas (typically nitrogen) to displace ambient air, reducing oxygen concentration and humidity levels inside the chamber. When integrated with automatic purge and humidity control systems, the unit maintains stable environmental setpoints with minimal operator intervention.
Gas is regulated through flowmeters and control modules, allowing precise adjustment of internal conditions. Airlocks and sealed access points minimize contamination and environmental fluctuations during material transfer.
Key Features & Capabilities
Engineered for performance, scalability, and compliance in controlled environments.
Controlled Atmosphere Operation
Maintains a controlled internal environment with low humidity and reduced oxygen levels through continuous inert gas purging. The sealed chamber design ensures stable atmospheric conditions suitable for sensitive materials and processes.
Possitive Pressure Configuration
Operates under positive pressure to prevent ingress of external contaminants. This pressure differential helps maintain internal cleanliness and protects processes from ambient particle exposure.
Integrated Humidity Control
Programmable humidity control system allows precise setpoint configuration. Automated purge cycles maintain consistent moisture levels while reducing operator intervention and gas consumption.
Modular User Configurations
Available in single and double user configurations, allowing flexibility based on process requirements. Compatible with various control modules for humidity, dehumidification, and system customization.
Construction & Materials
The glovebox structure is available in multiple material options to match chemical compatibility, visibility, and cleanroom requirements.
– Acrylic panels for full visibility and lightweight construction
– Static dissipative PVC with embedded layers for ESD protection
– Polycarbonate for impact resistance and solvent compatibility
– Polypropylene for chemical resistance (acids and corrosives)
– Stainless steel (304) for corrosion resistance and cleanability
Mechanical / Internal Components
Core mechanical elements are designed for sealed operation, user accessibility, and process flexibility.
– Stainless steel glove ports with detachable covers
– Side access doors for large equipment integration
– Removable back panels for oversized item handling
– Airlock chambers (left or right configuration)
– Automatic pressure relief valves for system stability
– Glovebox stands (powder-coated steel or stainless steel, fixed or adjustable height)
– Casters for mobility (optional)
Electrical
Electrical integration supports environmental control and monitoring systems.
– Compatibility with humidity control modules
– Integration with flowmeters and purge control systems
– Support for automated control units
Controls & Automation
Control systems are designed to reduce manual intervention and improve process consistency.
– Programmable humidity control system with setpoint configuration
– Automatic purge operation for atmosphere stabilization
– Flowmeters for precise gas flow regulation (SCFH ranges available)
– Gas regulators (Flowmeter systems) rated up to 100 psig and 150°F (66°C)
– Reduced nitrogen consumption through optimized purge cycles
Configurations
Sapphire gloveboxes are available in multiple configurations to match application and operational requirements.
Single User Glovebox
Compact system designed for individual operation in laboratory environments.
– Single operator access
– Reduced footprint
– Compatible with full control module integration
Double User Glovebox
Extended chamber for dual operation or larger process workflows.
– Two operator stations
– Increased internal working volume
– Suitable for collaborative or multi-step processes
Stainless Steel Glovebox
Fully enclosed system optimized for harsh or clean-critical environments.
– 304 stainless steel construction
– High corrosion resistance
– Easy cleaning and disinfection
Glovebox with Airlock System
Configuration focused on minimizing contamination during material transfer.
– Integrated airlock chamber
– Reduced humidity and oxygen fluctuation
– Left or right-hand access options
Glovebox with Humidity Control System
Designed for applications requiring strict moisture control.
– Programmable humidity setpoints
– Automated purge cycles
– Reduced nitrogen consumption
Glovebox with Humidity Control System
Flexible installation options depending on facility layout.
– Fixed or adjustable height stands
– Optional caster integration
– Powder-coated or stainless steel frames
Technical Specifications
Key technical parameters and construction details designed to support reliable and contamination-controlled material transfer.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Operation Mode | Positive pressure |
| Atmosphere Control | Inert gas (e.g., Nitrogen) |
| Environment | Low humidity, oxygen-reduced / oxygen-free conditions |
| Humidity Control | Programmable system with automatic purge operation |
| Flowmeter Capacity | 0.6–5, 1–10, 2–20 SCFH |
| Gas Regulator Rating | Up to 100 psig, 150°F (66°C) |
| Chamber Configuration | Single and double user |
| Materials | Acrylic, Static Dissipative PVC, Polycarbonate, Polypropylene, Stainless Steel |
| Glove Ports | Stainless steel with detachable covers |
| Access Options | Side access door, removable back panel |
| Transfer System | Airlock (left or right configuration) |
| Pressure Control | Automatic relief valves |
| Mounting Options | Stand-mounted (fixed or adjustable), optional casters |
VACUUM CHAMBERS
Controlled vacuum environments for testing, degassing, and sample handling under sustained low and intermediate vacuum conditions.
Overview
Sapphire Vacuum Chambers are designed to support controlled vacuum environments for laboratory, industrial, and process validation applications. These systems enable the removal of entrapped gases, controlled pressure reduction, and stable vacuum conditions for sensitive materials and components.
The system operates by evacuating air from a sealed chamber using an external vacuum source, maintaining pressures up to 29.9″ Hg. Integrated components such as vacuum gauges and metering valves allow precise monitoring, controlled bleeding, and backfilling of the chamber environment.
Chambers are constructed with rigid materials and airtight sealing systems to ensure pressure stability and repeatability during operation.
Key Features & Capabilities
Engineered for performance, scalability, and compliance in controlled environments.
Airtight Sealing System
Vacuum-rated gasket integrated into the door assembly ensures a consistent airtight seal, minimizing leakage and maintaining stable internal pressure throughout the entire operation cycle.
High Vacuum Capability
System supports sustained vacuum levels up to 29.9″ Hg, enabling reliable performance for degassing, testing, and other vacuum-dependent processes requiring stable low-pressure conditions.
Integrated Monitoring Components
Equipped with a vacuum gauge and metering valve to allow real-time pressure monitoring, controlled air bleeding, and precise backfilling during operation.
Robust Chamber Construction
Chamber features thick-wall construction designed to withstand repeated vacuum cycles, ensuring structural stability, durability, and long-term operational reliability.
Construction & Materials
Chambers are built using rigid, vacuum-compatible materials selected based on application requirements and chemical compatibility.
– Acrylic
– Aluminum
– Stainless Steel
– One-inch thick acrylic walls (standard option)
– Transparent chamber option for visual monitoring (acrylic)
Mechanical & Internal Components
Core mechanical elements are designed for vacuum integrity and operational reliability.
– Front hinged door or removable lid configurations
– Vacuum-rated door gasket
– Airtight sealing system
– Reinforced chamber structure for pressure resistance
Controls & Automation
Manual control components allow precise handling of vacuum levels and internal pressure conditions.
– Vacuum gauge for real-time pressure monitoring
– Metering valve for controlled air bleeding and backfilling
– Manual vacuum regulation interface
Configurations
Vacuum chambers are available in multiple configurations to support different access, material, and process requirements.
Removable Lid Chamber
Top-access configuration for easy loading of samples and materials.
– Removable cover design
– Suitable for batch processes
– Clear acrylic option for visibility
Front Hinged Door Chamber
Front-loading design for ergonomic access and controlled operation.
– Hinged door mechanism
– Integrated vacuum gasket
– Improved accessibility for repetitive processes
Acrylic Chamber
Transparent chamber configuration for visual process monitoring.
– Clear acrylic construction
– 1″ wall thickness
– Suitable for observation-based applications
Stainless Steel Chamber
High durability configuration for demanding or corrosive environments.
– Stainless steel construction
– Increased chemical resistance
– Suitable for industrial and lab environments
Custom Size Chamber
Fully customizable dimensions based on process requirements.
– Standard sizes available (e.g., 10″x10″x12″, 12″x12″x10″, 24″x10″x12)
– Custom dimensions supported
– Configurable internal volume
Technical Specifications
Key technical parameters and construction details designed to support reliable and contamination-controlled material transfer.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Vacuum Level | Up to 29.9" Hg |
| Chamber Materials | Acrylic, Aluminum, Stainless Steel |
| Wall Thickness | 1 inch (acrylic standard option) |
| Door Type | Front hinged door or removable cover |
| Seal Type | Vacuum gasket (airtight) |
| Monitoring | Vacuum gauge |
| Pressure Control | Metering valve |
| Operation | Manual |
| Typical Sizes | 10"x10"x12", 12"x12"x10", 24"x10"x12 |
| Customization | Available |
Start with a Consultation. Build with Confidence.
We start with a consultation to understand your requirements, including operational and regulatory considerations — then guide you through design, manufacturing, and installation.