Guideline for Field Testing of General Ventilation Filtration Devices and Systems for Removal Efficiency In-Situ by Particle Size and Resistance to Airflow
This guideline describes a procedure for measuring the performance of general ventilation air-cleaning devices in an end-use installed configuration. The performance measurements include removal efficiency by particle size and the resistance to airflow. The procedures for test include the definition and reporting of the system airflow. The procedure describes a method of counting ambient air particles of 0.3 to 5.0 ?m upstream and downstream of the in-place air cleaner(s) in a functioning air-handling system. The procedure describes the reduction of particle counter data to calculate removal efficiency by particle size. Since filter installations vary dramatically in design and shape@ a protocol for assessing the suitability of a site with regard to filter and system evaluation is included. When the evaluated site conditions meet the minimum criteria established for system evaluation@ the performance evaluation of the system can also be performed according to this procedure. The procedure for testing also describes performance specifications for the testing equipment and defines procedures for calculating and reporting these results. This procedure is not intended for measuring performance of portable or movable room air cleaners. This guideline is not intended for evaluation of HEPA and ULPA filter installation(s). PURPOSE To establish a guideline for evaluating the removal efficiency by particle size and the resistance to airflow of an aircleaning device as installed in a field HVAC system. The guideline includes a separate procedure for evaluating particulate filtration system efficiency for systems that meet the defined criteria.