□ Hanwha Robotics’ HCR-14 earns the highest cleanroom classification

□ Virtually particle-free, targeting advanced industries such as semiconductors and biotechnology

Hanwha Robotics has achieved an industry milestone, with its collaborative robot (cobot) officially recognized for meeting the highest cleanroom standard. Industry experts view this world-first certification as a breakthrough that will strengthen Hanwha’s foothold in advanced sectors such as semiconductors and biotechnology, where ultra-clean manufacturing environments are essential.

On the 1st, Hanwha Robotics announced that its HCR-14 collaborative robot has received Cleanroom Class 1 certification from TÜV SÜD, a globally recognized testing and certification body. Hanwha is the first company in the world to have a cobot certified at this stringent level.

A cleanroom is an environment specifically designed to minimize contamination by strictly controlling airborne particles. For collaborative robots to be deployed in such industries, they must meet rigorous cleanliness standards.

Under the international cleanroom standard ISO 14644-1, cleanroom classifications range from Class 1 to Class 9, based on the number of airborne particles per cubic meter. Class 1—the grade achieved by Hanwha’s HCR-14—permits no more than 10 particles of 0.1 micrometers or larger per cubic meter of air, representing the strictest level of cleanliness. Cobot operations within this classification ensure virtually no generation of contaminants during use.

With this certification, the HCR-14 is now validated for use in ultra-clean manufacturing environments such as semiconductor fabrication, precision optics, and biotechnology.

“This achievement marks a significant boost in competitiveness across high-value industries that require pristine working conditions,” said a Hanwha Robotics representative. “We expect this milestone to accelerate the broader adoption of collaborative robots in advanced manufacturing fields.”

Previously, Hanwha Robotics had secured Cleanroom Class 2 certifications for its other cobot models, including the HCR-3A, HCR-5A, and HCR-12A. The company plans to further expand cleanroom-rated certifications across its product lineup.