Since 1988, Valutek has been committed to innovation, driven by feedback and insights from our customers. Over the years, we've listened closely to their needs—gathering ideas, addressing challenges, and continuously improving our product offerings. Our dedication to innovation isn’t just a philosophy; it’s a cornerstone of our entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to quality.
Innovation Unlocked: Valutek Product Solution Series - Part 1
The Need for Change: Understanding Customer Concerns
The Valutek Difference: Rigorous Testing & Certification
A Comprehensive Solution: Coveralls, Hoods, and Boot Covers
The launch of Valutek’s latest product—a comprehensive launderable garment system—addresses two significant concerns raised by a range of customers operating in critical environments:
Operator safety is a top priority in controlled environments. Working in cleanroom settings already involves strict protocols and specialized garments – the last thing operators want to worry about is the chemical treatments used on their coveralls.
Historically, certain PFAS-based treatments have been used by manufacturers to create liquid resistant, tear-proof, and low-linting barriers for launderable cleanroom garments. However, as awareness grows regarding the risk of PFAS exposure and its long-term health implications, Valutek’s independently certified PFAS-free garment system allows operators to feel safe and secure at work.
Many customers also find themselves frustrated with the lack of options for procuring launderable garment systems. While leasing cleanroom garments from laundry providers is a common practice, it often results in a one-size-fits-all solution that fails to meet individual needs.
By owning cleanroom garments (often referred to as a COGs, or Customer Owned Goods, program), cleanroom managers are empowered to take complete process control over the garment quality and who provides the laundering, repair, and maintenance services. When managed effectively by internal resources, there are significant benefits over the garment’s lifecycle.
Aside from contracting directly with laundry providers, procurement options have historically been limited.
To ensure that Valutek’s launderable garments are PFAS-free, they are evaluated using target analysis based on the U.S. EPA Method 1633, the most comprehensive PFAS testing available today. Valutek partners with leading organizations like Battelle to ensure that no PFAS chemicals are used—directly or indirectly—in any launderable garment materials.
Valutek’s launderable coveralls, hoods, and boot covers are engineered for a variety of controlled environments, catering to diverse cleanliness and static requirements. Constructed from NanoTek 2.5 fabric—a blend of 94% polyester and 6% carbon—these garments feature a 2.5x2.5 grid pattern designed to meet the most stringent electrostatic discharge (ESD) requirements.
The unique weave, seam design, and stitch count of the polyester material effectively encapsulate operator-generated particles. Each garment undergoes thorough testing for filtration efficiency and particle release, ensuring the highest level of performance.
All Valutek launderable garments are manufactured in ISO-certified facilities, adhering to strict process controls that meet rigorous quality standards. To maintain ISO cleanroom compatibility, proper washing techniques are essential. We recommend consulting a specialty cleanroom laundry provider to ensure compliance with washing protocols.
By following IEST’s RP-CC-003.4 guidelines, cleanroom operators can maximize the effectiveness of their garments, ensuring contamination control and ESD protection for up to 100 wash cycles. Neglecting these guidelines can lead to premature material degradation and significantly reduced lifecycles.
With over 35 years of industry experience, Valutek is here to serve as a resource to promote better outcomes in contamination control. We are committed to helping customers make informed decisions that guarantee optimal protection for your processes, products, equipment, and personnel—all while preserving the integrity of your controlled environment.
As we continue to evolve and innovate, we invite you to explore and experience the Valutek difference for yourself.
Risk Mitigation: Understanding PFAS in Cleanroom Garments
Are PFAS Chemicals Sneaking into Your Cleanroom Supply Chain?
Cleanroom Apparel Selection Fundamentals: Cleanliness and Application Requirements
The Significance of Qualifying Secondary Sources of Cleanroom Products