SIST EN ISO 16890-4:2017

Air filters for general ventilation - Part 4: Conditioning method to determine the minimum fractional test efficiency (ISO 16890-4:2016)

This International Standard refers to particulate air filters for general ventilation having an initial efficiency of less than 99 % with respect to 0,4 µm particles. Filters used in the ventilation of low-rise residential buildings or portable room-air cleaners are excluded from the scope of this standard. It describes the technical specifications, requirements and a method of conditioning (discharging) filters in an artificial aging step to provide information about the intensity of the electrostatic removal mechanism. The method is applicable for air flow rates between 0,25 m³/s (900 m³/h, 530 ft³/min) and 1,5 m³/s (5400 m³/h, 3178 ft³/min), referring to a test duct with a nominal face area of 0,61 m x 0,61 m. Filters in the higher end and above 99 % initial efficiency with respect to 0,4 µm particles are tested and classified according to other standards (see ISO 29463, part 1-5). Filters according to this series of standards are rated by their removal efficiency to PM10, PM2.5 and PM1 aerosol fractions. The particle collection efficiency of the filter element is measured as a function of the particle size in the range of 0,3 to 10 µm of the unloaded and unconditioned filter element. In a second step, a full filter element shall be conditioned (discharged) in an artificial aging step to provide information about the intensity of the electrostatic removal mechanism. The results from this second step are used to calculate the average efficiency in each of the PM10, PM2.5 and PM1 size ranges by weighting the fractional efficiency values according to the standardized and normalized particle size distribution of the related fraction of the ambient aerosol. This standardized and normalized particle size distribution is defined in this standard.

Luftfilter für die allgemeine Raumlufttechnik - Teil 4: Konditionierungsverfahren für die Ermittlung des Fraktionsabscheidegradminimus (ISO 16890-4:2016)

Filtres à air pour ventilation générale - Partie 4: Méthode de conditionnement pour déterminer le rendement fractionnaire minimal d'essai (ISO 16890-4:2016)

ISO 16890-4:2016 établit une méthode de conditionnement pour déterminer l'efficacité spectrale minimum d'essai.
Elle est destinée à être utilisée conjointement avec l'ISO 16890‑1, l'ISO 16890‑2 et l'ISO 16890‑3 et fournit les exigences d'essai associées pour le dispositif d'essai et l'enceinte de conditionnement ainsi que le mode opératoire de conditionnement à suivre.
La méthode de conditionnement décrite dans la présente partie de l'ISO 16890 se réfère à un banc d'essai ayant une surface frontale nominale de 610 mm × 610 mm (24 inch × 24 inch).
L'ISO 16890 (toutes les parties) concerne les éléments filtrant de ventilation générale ayant une efficacité ePM1 inférieure ou égale à 99 % et une efficacité ePM10 supérieure à 20 %, lorsqu'ils sont soumis à essai selon les modes opératoires définis dans l'ISO 16890 (toutes les parties).
NOTE          Pour ce mode opératoire, la limite inférieure est fixée à une efficacité minimale ePM10 de 20 % étant donné qu'il est très difficile pour un élément filtrant d'essai, en dessous de ce niveau, de respecter les exigences de validité statistique de ce mode opératoire.
En dehors de ces fractions d'aérosol, les éléments filtrants sont évalués par d'autres méthodes d'essai applicables. Voir l'ISO 29463 (toutes les parties).
Les éléments filtrants utilisés dans les épurateurs d'air ambiant portatifs sont exclus du domaine d'application de la présente partie de l'ISO 16890.
Les résultats de performance obtenus conformément à l'ISO 16890 (toutes les parties) ne peuvent pas être utilisés quantitativement pour prédire les performances en service, en ce qui concerne l'efficacité et la durée de vie.
Les résultats de la présente partie de l'ISO 16890 peuvent également être utilisés par d'autres normes qui définissent ou classent l'efficacité spectrale dans la plage granulométrique de 0,3 µm à 10 μm lorsque le mécanisme d'élimination électrostatique est un facteur important à prendre en compte, par exemple l'ISO 29461.

Zračni filtri pri splošnem prezračevanju - 4. del: Metoda kondicioniranja za ugotavljanje minimalne frakcijske učinkovitosti (ISO 16890-4:2016)

Ta evropski standard se uporablja za zračne filtre delcev za splošno prezračevanje, katerih začetna učinkovitost v zvezi z delci velikosti 0,4 μm je manj kot 99 %. Filtri, ki se uporabljajo pri prezračevanju nizkih stanovanjskih stavb ali premični čistilniki zraka v prostorih so izključeni s področja uporabe tega standarda. Opisuje tehnične specifikacije, zahteve in metodo kondicioniranja (izpraznjenja) filtrov v koraku umetnega staranja, s čimer se zagotovijo informacije o intenzivnosti elektrostatičnega mehanizma odstranjevanja. Metoda je uporabna za tok zraka med 0,25 m³/s (900 m³/h, 530 ft³/min) in 1,5 m³/s (5400 m³/h, 3178 ft³/min) v preskusnih ceveh z nazivno površino 0,61 m x 0,61 m. Boljši filtri z začetno učinkovitostjo nad 99 % glede na delce velikosti 0,4 µm se preskušajo in razvrščajo v skladu z drugimi standardi (glej ISO 29463, del 1-5). Filtri v skladu s to serijo standardov se ocenjujejo po njihovi učinkovitosti odstranjevanja delcev aerosolov PM10, PM2.5 in PM1. Učinkovitost zbiranja delcev vložka filtra se meri kot funkcija velikosti delcev v razponu od 0,3 do 10 μm pri praznem in nekondicioniranem vložku filtra. V drugem koraku je treba polni vložek filtra kondicionirati (izprazniti) v koraku umetnega staranja, s čimer se zagotovijo informacije o intenzivnosti elektrostatičnega mehanizma odstranjevanja. Rezultati drugega koraka se uporabljajo za izračun povprečne učinkovitosti v razponih velikosti PM10, PM2.5 in PM1 s ponderiranjem vrednosti frakcijske učinkovitosti glede na porazdelitev standardizirane in normalizirane velikosti delcev povezane frakcije zunanjega aerosola. V tem standardu je določena ta porazdelitev standardizirane in normalizirane velikosti delcev.

General Information

• Status: Withdrawn
• Public Enquiry End Date: 29-Jul-2015
• Publication Date: 16-Jan-2017
• Withdrawal Date: 08-Sep-2022
• ICS: 91.140.30 - Ventilation and air-conditioning systems
• Technical Committee: I13 - Imaginarni 13
• Current Stage: 9900 - Withdrawal (Adopted Project)
• Start Date: 08-Sep-2022
• Due Date: 01-Oct-2022
• Completion Date: 09-Sep-2022
• Ref Project: EN ISO 16890-4:2016 - Air filters for general ventilation - Part 4: Conditioning method to determine the minimum fractional test efficiency (ISO 16890-4:2016)

Relations

• Replaced By: SIST EN ISO 16890-4:2022 - Air filters for general ventilation - Part 4: Conditioning method to determine the minimum fractional test efficiency (ISO 16890-4:2022)
• Effective Date: 07-Sep-2022
• Replaces: SIST EN 779:2012 - Particulate air filters for general ventilation - Determination of the filtration performance
• Effective Date: 21-Dec-2016
• Replaces: SIST EN 779:2012 - Particulate air filters for general ventilation - Determination of the filtration performance
• Effective Date: 08-Jun-2022

Standards Content (Sample)

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
SIST EN ISO 16890-4:2017
01-marec-2017
1DGRPHãþD
SIST EN 779:2012
=UDþQLILOWULSULVSORãQHPSUH]UDþHYDQMXGHO0HWRGDNRQGLFLRQLUDQMD]D
XJRWDYOMDQMHPLQLPDOQHIUDNFLMVNHXþLQNRYLWRVWL,62
Air filters for general ventilation - Part 4: Conditioning method to determine the minimum
fractional test efficiency (ISO 16890-4:2016)
Luftfilter für die allgemeine Raumlufttechnik - Teil 4: Konditionierungsverfahren für die
Ermittlung des Fraktionsabscheidegradminimus (ISO 16890-4:2016)
Filtres à air pour ventilation générale - Partie 4: Méthode de conditionnement pour
déterminer le rendement fractionnaire minimal d'essai (ISO 16890-4:2016)
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN ISO 16890-4:2016
ICS:
91.140.30 3UH]UDþHYDOQLLQNOLPDWVNL Ventilation and air-
VLVWHPL conditioning systems
SIST EN ISO 16890-4:2017 en,fr,de
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

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SIST EN ISO 16890-4:2017

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SIST EN ISO 16890-4:2017


EN ISO 16890-4
EUROPEAN STANDARD

NORME EUROPÉENNE

December 2016
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
ICS 91.140.30 Supersedes EN 779:2012
English Version

Air filters for general ventilation - Part 4: Conditioning
method to determine the minimum fractional test
efficiency (ISO 16890-4:2016)
Filtres à air de ventilation générale - Partie 4: Méthode Luftfilter für die allgemeine Raumlufttechnik - Teil 4:
de conditionnement afin de déterminer l'efficacité Konditionierungsverfahren für die Ermittlung des
spectrale minimum d'essai (ISO 16890-4:2016) Fraktionsabscheidegradminimus (ISO 16890-4:2016)
This European Standard was approved by CEN on 19 September 2016.

CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this
European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references
concerning such national standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre or to any CEN
member.

This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by
translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management
Centre has the same status as the official versions.

CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania,
Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and
United Kingdom.





EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION

EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG

CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Avenue Marnix 17, B-1000 Brussels
© 2016 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN ISO 16890-4:2016 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.

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SIST EN ISO 16890-4:2017
EN ISO 16890-4:2016 (E)
Contents Page
European foreword . 3
2

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SIST EN ISO 16890-4:2017
EN ISO 16890-4:2016 (E)
European foreword
This document (EN ISO 16890-4:2016) has been prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 142
"Cleaning equipment for air and other gases" in collaboration with Technical Committee CEN/TC 195
“Air filters for general air cleaning” the secretariat of which is held by UNI.
This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an
identical text or by endorsement, at the latest by June 2017, and conflicting national standards shall be
withdrawn at the latest by June 2017.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. CEN [and/or CENELEC] shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent
rights.
This document supersedes EN 779:2012.
This document has been prepared under a mandate given to CEN by the European Commission and the
European Free Trade Association.
According to the CEN-CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organizations of the
following countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria,
Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia,
France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta,
Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland,
Turkey and the United Kingdom.
Endorsement notice
The text of ISO 16890-4:2016 has been approved by CEN as EN ISO 16890-4:2016 without any
modification.

3

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SIST EN ISO 16890-4:2017

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SIST EN ISO 16890-4:2017
INTERNATIONAL ISO
STANDARD 16890-4
First edition
2016-12-01
Air filters for general ventilation —
Part 4:
Conditioning method to determine the
minimum fractional test efficiency
Filtres à air de ventilation générale —
Partie 4: Méthode de conditionnement afin de déterminer l’efficacité
spectrale minimum d’essai
Reference number
ISO 16890-4:2016(E)
©
ISO 2016

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SIST EN ISO 16890-4:2017
ISO 16890-4:2016(E)

COPYRIGHT PROTECTED DOCUMENT
© ISO 2016, Published in Switzerland
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form
or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, or posting on the internet or an intranet, without prior
written permission. Permission can be requested from either ISO at the address below or ISO’s member body in the country of
the requester.
ISO copyright office
Ch. de Blandonnet 8 • CP 401
CH-1214 Vernier, Geneva, Switzerland
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
[e-mail]
www.iso.org
ii © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

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SIST EN ISO 16890-4:2017
ISO 16890-4:2016(E)

Contents Page
Foreword .iv
Introduction .v
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 2
4 Symbols and abbreviated terms . 2
5 General conditioning test requirements . 2
5.1 General . 2
5.2 Test device requirements . 2
5.3 Test device selection . 2
5.4 Conditioning cabinet requirements . 3
6 Conditioning materials . 3
7 Conditioning cabinet . 4
7.1 General . 4
7.2 Conditioning cabinet dimensions and construction materials . 4
7.3 Environment, temperature and relative humidity . 5
8 Safety issues . 6
9 Test method . 6
9.1 General . 6
9.2 Conditioning procedure . 7
10 Qualification . 7
11 Reporting results . 8
Annex A (informative) Hints for health and safety aspects for the use of IPA .9
Bibliography .11
© ISO 2016 – All rights reserved iii

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SIST EN ISO 16890-4:2017
ISO 16890-4:2016(E)

Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out
through ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical
committee has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International
organizations, governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work.
ISO collaborates closely with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of
electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are
described in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular the different approval criteria needed for the
different types of ISO documents should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the
editorial rules of the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www.iso.org/directives).
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights. Details of
any patent rights identified during the development of the document will be in the Introduction and/or
on the ISO list of patent declarations received (see www.iso.org/patents).
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation on the meaning of ISO specific terms and expressions related to conformity assessment,
as well as information about ISO’s adherence to the World Trade Organization (WTO) principles in the
Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) see the following URL: www.iso.org/iso/foreword.html.
The committee responsible for this document is ISO/TC 142, Cleaning equipment for air and other gases.
This first edition of ISO 16890-4, together with ISO 16890-1, ISO 16890-2 and ISO 16890-3, cancels and
replaces ISO/TS 21220:2009, which has been technically revised.
ISO 16890 consists of the following parts, under the general title Air filters for general ventilation:
— Part 1: Technical specifications, requirements and classification system based upon particulate matter
efficiency (ePM)
— Part 2: Measurement of fractional efficiency and air flow resistance
— Part 3: Determination of the gravimetric efficiency and the air flow resistance versus the mass of test
dust captured
— Part 4: Conditioning method to determine the minimum fractional test efficiency
iv © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

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SIST EN ISO 16890-4:2017
ISO 16890-4:2016(E)

Introduction
The effects of particulate matter (PM) on human health have been extensively studied in the past
decades. The results are that fine dust can be a serious health hazard, contributing to or even causing
respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Different classes of particulate matter can be defined according
to the particle size range. The most important ones are PM , PM and PM . The U.S. Environmental
10 2,5 1
Protection Agency (EPA), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Union define
PM as particulate matter which passes through a size-selective inlet with a 50 % efficiency cut-off
10
at 10 µm aerodynamic diameter. PM and PM are similarly defined. However, this definition is not
2,5 1
precise if there is no further characterization of the sampling method and the sampling inlet with a
clearly defined separation curve. In Europe, the reference method for the sampling and measurement
of PM is described in EN 12341. The measurement principle is based on the collection on a filter of the
10
PM fraction of ambient particulate matter and the gravimetric mass determination (see EU Council
10
Directive 1999/30/EC of 22 April 1999).
As the precise definition of PM , PM and PM is quite complex and not simple to measure, public
10 2,5 1
authorities, like the U.S. EPA or the German Federal Environmental Agency (Umweltbundesamt),
increasingly use in their publications the more simple denotation of PM as being the particle size
10
fraction less or equal to 10 µm. Since this deviation to the above mentioned complex “official” definition
does not have a significant impact on a filter element’s particle removal efficiency, the ISO 16890 series
refers to this simplified definition of PM , PM and PM .
10 2,5 1
Particulate matter in the context of the ISO 16890 series describes a size fraction of the natural aerosol
(liquid and solid particles) suspended in ambient air. The symbol ePM describes the efficiency of an air
x
cleaning device to particles with an optical diameter between 0,3 µm and x µm. The following particle
size ranges are used in the ISO 16890 series for the listed efficiency values.
Table 1 — Optical particle diameter size ranges for the definition of the efficiencies, ePM
x
Efficiency Size range, µm
ePM 0,3 ≤ × ≤10
10
ePM 0,3 ≤ × ≤2,5
2,5
ePM 0,3 ≤ × ≤1
1
Air filters for general ventilation are widely used in heating, ventilation and air-conditioning applications
of buildings. In this application, air filters significantly influence the indoor air quality and, hence, the
health of people, by reducing the concentration of particulate matter. To enable design engineers and
maintenance personnel to choose the correct filter types, there is an interest from international trade
and manufacturing for a well-defined, common method of testing and classifying air filters according
to their particle efficiencies, especially with respect to the removal of particulate matter. Current
regional standards are applying totally different testing and classification methods, which do not allow
any comparison with each other, and thus hinder global trade with common products. Additionally,
the current industry standards have known limitations by generating results which often are far away
from filter performance in service, i.e. overstating the particle removal efficiency of many products.
With this new ISO 16890 series, a completely new approach for a classification system is adopted, which
gives better and more meaningful results compared to the existing standards.
The ISO 16890 series describes the equipment, materials, technical specifications, requirements,
qualifications and procedures to produce the laboratory performance data and efficiency classification
based upon the measured fractional efficiency converted into a particulate matter efficiency (ePM)
reporting system.
Air filter elements according to the ISO 16890 series are evaluated in the laboratory by their ability to
remove aerosol particulate expressed as the efficiency values ePM , ePM and ePM The air filter
1 2,5 10.
elements can then be classified according to the procedures defined in ISO 16890-1. The particulate
removal efficiency of the filter element is measured as a function of the particle size in the range of
0,3 μm to 10 µm of the unloaded and unconditioned filter element as per the procedures defined in
ISO 16890-2. After the initial particulate removal efficiency testing, the air filter element is conditioned
© ISO 2016 – All rights reserved v

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SIST EN ISO 16890-4:2017
ISO 16890-4:2016(E)

according to the procedures defined in this part of ISO 16890 and the particulate removal efficiency is
repeated on the conditioned filter element. This is done to provide information about the intensity of
any electrostatic removal mechanism which may or may not be present with the filter element for test.
The average efficiency of the filter is determined by calculating the mean between the initial efficiency
and the conditioned efficiency for each size range. The average efficiency is used to calculate the ePM
x
efficiencies by weighting these values to the standardized and normalized particle size distribution of
the related ambient aerosol fraction. When comparing filters tested in accordance with the ISO 16890
series, the fractional efficiency values shall always be compared among the same ePM class (ex. ePM
x 1
of filter A with ePM of filter B). The test dust capacity and the initial arrestance of a filter element are
1
determined as per the test procedures defined in ISO 16890-3.
vi © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

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SIST EN ISO 16890-4:2017
INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO 16890-4:2016(E)
Air filters for general ventilation —
Part 4:
Conditioning method to determine the minimum fractional
test efficiency
1 Scope
This part of ISO 16890 establishes a conditioning method to determine the minimum fractional test
efficiency.
It is intended for use in conjunction with ISO 16890-1, ISO 16890-2 and ISO 16890-3, and provides
the related test requirements for the test device and conditioning cabinet as well as the conditioning
procedure to follow.
The conditioning method described in this part of ISO 16890 is referring to a test device with a nominal
face area of 610 mm × 610 mm (24 inch × 24 inch).
ISO 16890 (all parts) refers to particulate air filter elements for general ventilation having an ePM
1
efficiency less than or equal to 99 % and an ePM efficiency greater than 20 % when tested according
10
to the procedures defined within ISO 16890 (all parts).
NOTE The lower limit for this test procedure is set at a minimum ePM efficiency of 20 % since it will be very
10
difficult for a test filter element below this level to meet the statistical validity requirements of this procedure.
Air filter elements outside of this aerosol fraction are evaluated by other applicable test methods. See
ISO 29463 (all parts).
Filter elements used in portable room-air cleaners are excluded from the scope of this part of ISO 16890.
The performance results obtained in accordance with ISO 16890 (all parts) cannot by themselves be
quantitatively applied to predict performance in service with regard to efficiency and lifetime.
The results from this part of ISO 16890 may also be used by other standards that define or classify the
fractional efficiency in the size range of 0,3 μm to 10 μm when electrostatic removal mechanism is an
important factor to consider, for example ISO 29461.
2 Normative references
The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this document and are
indispensable for its application. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated
references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 16890-1, Air filters for general ventilation — Part 1: Technical specifications, requirements and
classification system based upon particulate matter efficiency (ePM)
ISO 16890-2, Air filters for general ventilation — Part 2: Measurement of fractional efficiency and air flow
resistance
ISO 16890-3, Air filters for general ventilation — Part 3: Determination of the gravimetric efficiency and
the air flow resistance versus the mass of test dust captured
ISO 29464, Cleaning equipment for air and other gases — Terminology
© ISO 2016 – All rights reserved 1

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SIST EN ISO 16890-4:2017
ISO 16890-4:2016(E)

3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in ISO 29464 and the following apply.
3.1
minimum fractional test efficiency
fractional efficiency after applying the conditioning method defined in this part of ISO 16890
Note 1 to entry: Also named as “minimum filter efficiency” or “minimum test efficiency”.
Note 2 to entry: Minimum fractional test efficiency shall be measured according to ISO 16890-2.
4 Symbols and abbreviated terms
IPA isopropyl alcohol (isopropanol)
MSDS material safety data sheet
5 General conditioning test requirements
5.1 General
This procedure is used to determine the minimum test efficiency and to test whether the filter fractional
efficiency is dependent on the electrostatic removal mechanism. This is accomplished by measuring the
removal efficiency of an untreated filter and the corresponding efficiency after conditioning.
Many types of air filters rely to different extents on the effects of passive electrostatic charges on the
fibres to achieve higher particle removal efficiencies, particularly in the initial stages of their working
life, at low resistance to airflow.
Exposure to some types of challenge, such as combustion particles, fine particles or oil mist in service
may affect the action of these electric charges so that the initial efficiency may drop substantially after
an initial period of service. This drop in the fractional efficiency can be reduced by a slight increase in
mechanical efficiency from the collection of particles in the filtration media. The amount of the drop
and the amount of the increase can vary by filter type, service location and atmospheric air conditions.
The procedure described here indirectly but quantitatively shows the extent of the electrostatic charge
effect on the initial performance on a full size filter (measured according to ISO 16890-2). It indicates the
level of efficiency obtainable with the charge effect removed (or minimized by IPA vapour conditioning)
and with no increase in mechanical efficiency. It should not be assumed that the measured conditioned
(“discharged”) efficiency always represents real life behaviour. The treatment of a filter as described
in this part of ISO 16890 may affect the structure of the fibre matrix or chemically affect the fibres or
even fully destroy the filter medium. Hence, this procedure may not be applicable to all types of filters.
If degradation shows a visual, physical change or a resistance to airflow change of more than 10 % but
minimum 10 Pa, this part of ISO 16890 is not applicable and the filter cannot be classified according to
ISO 16890-1.
5.2 Test device requirements
The test device shall be designed or marked so as to prevent incorrect mounting. The complete test
device (filter and frame) shall be made of material suitable to withstand normal usage and exposure
to the range of temperature, humidity and corrosive environments likely to be encountered in service.
5.3 Test device selection
The test device shall be mounted in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations and,
after equilibration to standard climatic conditions, weighed to the nearest gram. Before starting the
2 © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

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SIST EN ISO 16890-4:2017
ISO 16890-4:2016(E)

conditioning, the initial resistance to airflow and initial fractional efficiency shall be determined
according to the measurement procedure described in ISO 16890-2.
The test device shall be a full size filter element with a nominal face dimension of 610 mm × 610 mm
(24 inch × 24 inch) with a maximum length (depth) of 760 mm (30 inch). If for any reason dimensions do
not allow conditioning of a test device under standard test conditions, assembly of two or more smaller
devices of the same type or model is permitted, provided no leaks occur in the resulting assembly. For
filters with a higher length or depth, the conditioning cabinet described in 7.1 can be scaled accordingly.
The operating conditions of such accessory equipment shall be recorded.
5.4 Conditioning cabinet requirements
Critical dimensions and arrangements of the conditioning cabinet are shown in the figures of this
part of ISO 16890 and are intended as guides to help construct a conditioning cabinet to meet the
performance requirements of this part of ISO 16890. All dimensions shown are mandatory unless
otherwise indicated. Units shown are in mm (inch) unless otherwise indicated.
The design of equipment not specified (including but not limited to the holding frame, IPA trays,
conditioning cabinet surroundings and auxiliaries) is discretionary, but the equipment shall have
adequate capacity to meet the performance and health and safety requirements described in Clause 8.
6 Conditioning materials
The liquid for the conditioning step to discharge filter media and equalize electrostatic surface charges
on the filter fibres is isopropyl alcohol (IPA, commonly known as isopropanol or 2-propanol). IPA is
placed inside the conditioning cabinet to evaporate until the equilibrium of IPA vapour in ambient air is
reached. So liquid IPA will not be in contact with the filter media.
This part of ISO 16890 does not claim to treat all possible related health and safety issues. It is the
responsibility of the user of this part of ISO 16890 to take suitable measures for the health and safety
protection of the staff before applying this method. Additionally, the responsible user shall take care
that official and legal regulations are fully respected.
OH
|
HCCH CH
33
Isopropanol (IPA) – formula: C H O
3 8
Isopropanol properties:
Density 0,785 5 kg/m³
Molecular weight 60,09 g/mol
Melting point 185 K
Boiling point 355 K
Flash point 285 K
Ignition temperature 698 K
Vapour pressure 0,059 7 bar (at 298 K)/0,043 2 bar (at 293 K)/0,081 4 bar (at 303 K)
To be calculated as follows:
B
log PA=−
()
10
TC+
© ISO 2016 – All rights reserved 3

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SIST EN ISO 16890-4:2017
ISO 16890-4:2016(E)

where
P = pressure (bar) T = temperature (K)
A = 4,577 95 B = 1 221,423
C = −87,474
NOTE  1 bar = 100 kPa.
Explosion limits (in air) Lower concentration limit 2 % (vol.), Upper concentration limit 12 % (vol.)
both at 293 K
CAS-number 67-63-0
For the conditioning test, IPA shall have a purity of minimum 99,5 %.
7 Conditioning cabinet
7.1 General
The conditioning cabinet shall consist of a filter holding chamber and one or two IPA tray holding
chambers. Each chamber may have separate doors for service. The filter holding chamber shall allow
the installation of a full size filter (the test device) in a way that the filter does not touch the conditioning
cabinet walls and allows air/vapour to pass around freely by diffusion. There shall be an open air
passage between the IPA tray holding chamber and the filter holding
...

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
oSIST prEN ISO 16890-4:2015
01-julij-2015
=UDþQLILOWULSULVSORãQHPSUH]UDþHYDQMXGHO0HWRGDNRQGLFLRQLUDQMD]D
XJRWDYOMDQMHPLQLPDOQHIUDNFLMVNHXþLQNRYLWRVWL,62',6
Air filters for general ventilation - Part 4: Conditioning method to determine the minimum
fractional test efficiency (ISO/DIS 16890-4:2015)
Luftfilter für die allgemeine Raumlufttechnik - Teil 4: Konditionierungsverfahren für die
Ermittlung des Fraktionsabscheidegradminimus (ISO/DIS 16890-4:2015)
Filtres à air pour ventilation générale - Partie 4: Méthode de conditionnement pour
déterminer le rendement fractionnaire minimal d'essai (ISO/DIS 16890-4:2015)
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: prEN ISO 16890-4
ICS:
91.140.30 3UH]UDþHYDOQLLQNOLPDWVNL Ventilation and air-
VLVWHPL conditioning
oSIST prEN ISO 16890-4:2015 en
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

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oSIST prEN ISO 16890-4:2015

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oSIST prEN ISO 16890-4:2015
DRAFT INTERNATIONAL STANDARD
ISO/DIS 16890-4
ISO/TC 142 Secretariat: UNI
Voting begins on: Voting terminates on:
2015-05-14 2015-08-14
Air filters for general ventilation —
Part 4:
Conditioning method to determine the minimum fractional
test efficiency
Filtres à air pour ventilation générale —
Partie 4: Méthode de conditionnement afin de déterminer l’éfficacité minimum de test fractionnée
ICS: 91.140.30
ISO/CEN PARALLEL PROCESSING
This draft has been developed within the International Organization for
Standardization (ISO), and processed under the ISO lead mode of collaboration
as defined in the Vienna Agreement.
This draft is hereby submitted to the ISO member bodies and to the CEN member
bodies for a parallel five month enquiry.
Should this draft be accepted, a final draft, established on the basis of comments
received, will be submitted to a parallel two-month approval vote in ISO and
THIS DOCUMENT IS A DRAFT CIRCULATED
formal vote in CEN.
FOR COMMENT AND APPROVAL. IT IS
THEREFORE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND MAY
NOT BE REFERRED TO AS AN INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD UNTIL PUBLISHED AS SUCH.
To expedite distribution, this document is circulated as received from the
IN ADDITION TO THEIR EVALUATION AS
committee secretariat. ISO Central Secretariat work of editing and text
BEING ACCEPTABLE FOR INDUSTRIAL,
composition will be undertaken at publication stage.
TECHNOLOGICAL, COMMERCIAL AND
USER PURPOSES, DRAFT INTERNATIONAL
STANDARDS MAY ON OCCASION HAVE TO
BE CONSIDERED IN THE LIGHT OF THEIR
POTENTIAL TO BECOME STANDARDS TO
WHICH REFERENCE MAY BE MADE IN
Reference number
NATIONAL REGULATIONS.
ISO/DIS 16890-4:2015(E)
RECIPIENTS OF THIS DRAFT ARE INVITED
TO SUBMIT, WITH THEIR COMMENTS,
NOTIFICATION OF ANY RELEVANT PATENT
RIGHTS OF WHICH THEY ARE AWARE AND TO
©
PROVIDE SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION. ISO 2015

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oSIST prEN ISO 16890-4:2015
ISO/DIS 16890-4:2015(E)

COPYRIGHT PROTECTED DOCUMENT
© ISO 2015
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form
or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, or posting on the internet or an intranet, without prior
written permission. Permission can be requested from either ISO at the address below or ISO’s member body in the country of
the requester.
ISO copyright office
Case postale 56 • CH-1211 Geneva 20
Tel. + 41 22 749 01 11
Fax + 41 22 749 09 47
E-mail [e-mail]
Web www.iso.org
Published in Switzerland
ii © ISO 2015 – All rights reserved

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oSIST prEN ISO 16890-4:2015
ISO/DIS 16890-4:2015(E)

Contents Page
Foreword .iv
Introduction .v
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative References . 1
3 Terms and Definitions . 1
4 Symbols and abbreviated terms . 1
5 General Test Requirements . 2
5.1 General . 2
5.2 Test Device Requirements . 2
5.3 Test Device Selection . 2
5.4 Test Rig Requirements . 2
6 Test materials . 3
7 Test cabinet . 3
7.1 General . 3
7.2 Test Cabinet Dimensions and Construction Materials . 4
7.3 Environment and Temperature and Relative Humidity . 5
8 Safety Issues . 5
9 Test method . 5
9.1 General . 5
9.2 Test Procedure. 6
10 Qualification . 7
11 Reporting Results . 7
Annex A (informative) IPA conditioning cabinet and conditioning method based on
air recirculation . 8
Bibliography .12
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oSIST prEN ISO 16890-4:2015
ISO/DIS 16890-4:2015(E)

Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out
through ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical
committee has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International
organizations, governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work.
ISO collaborates closely with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of
electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are
described in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular the different approval criteria needed for the
different types of ISO documents should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the
editorial rules of the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www.iso.org/directives).
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights. Details of any
patent rights identified during the development of the document will be in the Introduction and/or on
the ISO list of patent declarations received (see www.iso.org/patents).
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation on the meaning of ISO specific terms and expressions related to conformity
assessment, as well as information about ISO’s adherence to the WTO principles in the Technical Barriers
to Trade (TBT) see the following URL: Foreword - Supplementary information
ISO 16890-4 was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 142, Cleaning equipment for air and other gases.
ISO 16890 (all parts) replaces ISO/TS 21220:2009.
ISO 16890 consists of the following parts, under the general title Air filters for general ventilation:
— Part 1: Technical specifications, requirements and efficiency classification system based upon
Particulate Matter (PM)
— Part 2: Measurement of fractional efficiency and air flow resistance
— Part 3: Determination of the gravimetric efficiency and the air flow resistance versus the mass of test
dust captured
— Part 4: Conditioning method to determine the minimum fractional test efficiency
iv © ISO 2015 – All rights reserved

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Introduction
The effects of particulate matter (PM) on human health have been extensively studied in the past decades.
The results are that fine dust can be a serious health hazard, contributing to or even causing respiratory
and cardiovascular diseases. Different classes of particulate matter can be defined according to the
particle size range. The most important ones are PM , PM and PM . The U.S. Environmental
10 2,5 1
Protection Agency (EPA), the World Health Organization (WHO) or the European Union define PM
10
as particulate matter which passes through a size-selective inlet with a 50 % efficiency cut-off at 10
μm aerodynamic diameter. PM and PM are similarly defined. However, this definition is not precise
2,5 1
as long as there are no further definition of the sampling method and the sampling inlet with a clearly
defined separation curve. In Europe, the reference method for the sampling and measurement of PM
10
is that described in EN 12341 “Air Quality – Field Test Procedure to Demonstrate Reference Equivalence
of Sampling Methods for the PM fraction of particulate matter”. The measurement principle is based
10
on the collection on a filter of the PM fraction of ambient particulate matter and the gravimetric mass
10
determination (see EU Council Directive 1999/30/EC of 22 April 1999).
As the precise definition of PM , PM and PM is quite complex and not simple to measure, public
10 2,5 1
authorities, like e.g. the US EPA or the German Federal Environmental Agency (Umweltbundesamt),
increasingly use in their publications the more simple denotation of PM as being the particle size
10
fraction less or equal to 10 μm. Since this deviation to the above mentioned complex “official” definition
does not have a significant impact on a filter elements particle removal efficiency as reported by
ISO 16890, this simplified definition of PM , PM and PM will be utilized within ISO 16890 documents.
10 2,5 1
Particulate Matter in the context of this standard describes a size fraction of the natural aerosol (liquid
and solid particles) suspended in ambient air, with the symbol PMx where x defines the size range of the
aerodynamic diameter ≤ x μm. The following particle size fractions are used in this standard:
Fraction Size range
PM ≤ 10 μm
10
PM ≤ 2,5 μm
2,5
PM ≤ 1 μm
1
Air filters used for general ventilation are widely used in heating, ventilation and air-conditioning
applications of buildings. In this application they significantly influence the indoor air quality, and hence,
the health of people, by reducing the concentration of particulate matter. To enable design engineers and
maintenance personnel to choose the correct filter types, there is an interest from international trade
and manufacturing for a well-defined, common method of testing and classifying air filters properly
according to their particle efficiencies, especially with respect to the removal of particulate matter.
Current regional standards are applying totally different testing and classification methods, which do not
allow any comparison to each other, and hence, hinder global trade with common products. Additionally,
the current standards have known limitations and generate results which are sometimes far away
from filter performance in service. With this new international standard, a completely new approach
for a classification system is adopted, which gives better and more meaningful results compared to
the existing standards. Additionally, this new approach shall overcome major concerns related to the
former approach of ISO/TS 21220.
ISO 16890 (all parts) describes the equipment, materials, technical specifications, requirements,
qualifications, and procedures to produce the laboratory performance data and efficiency classification
based upon the measured fractional efficiency converted into a Particulate Matter (PM) reporting system.
Air filter elements according to this series of standards are evaluated in the laboratory by their ability
to remove aerosol particulate to PM , PM and PM aerosol fractions and then the air filter elements
1 2,5 10
can be classified per the procedures defined in part 1. The particulate removal efficiency of the filter
element is measured as a function of the particle size in the range of 0,3 to 10 μm of the unloaded
and unconditioned filter element per the procedures defined in part 2. The air filter element is then
conditioned per the procedures defined in part 4 and the particulate removal efficiency is repeated on
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oSIST prEN ISO 16890-4:2015
ISO/DIS 16890-4:2015(E)

the conditioned filter element. This is done to provide information about the intensity of any electrostatic
removal mechanism which may or may not be present with the filter element for test. The results from
this second particle collection efficiency step are used to shift the fractional efficiency curve of the
filter element to be used to calculate the average efficiency in each of the PM , PM and PM ranges
1 2,5 10
by weighting the fractional efficiency values according to the standardized and normalized particle size
distribution of the related fraction of the ambient aerosol.
vi © ISO 2015 – All rights reserved

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oSIST prEN ISO 16890-4:2015
DRAFT INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO/DIS 16890-4:2015(E)
Air filters for general ventilation —
Part 4:
Conditioning method to determine the minimum fractional
test efficiency
1 Scope
This part of ISO 16890 establishes a conditioning method to determine the minimum fractional test
efficiency. It is intended for use in conjunction with ISO 16890-1 and ISO 16890-2 and provides the
related test requirements for the test device and rig as well as the conditioning procedure to follow.
The test method described in this standard is referring to a test rig with a nominal face area of 610 mm x
610 mm (24 inch x 24 inch).
ISO 16890 (all parts) refers to particulate air filter elements for general ventilation having an initial
efficiency less than or equal to 99% with respect to PM1 aerosol fraction and greater than 20 % with
respect to PM10 aerosol fraction when tested per the procedures defined within parts 1-4 of ISO 16890.
Air filter elements outside of this aerosol fraction are evaluated by other applicable test methods, (see
ISO 29463, part 1-5).
Filter elements used in portable room-air cleaners are excluded from the scope of this standard.
The performance results obtained in accordance with this series of standards cannot by themselves be
quantitatively applied to predict performance in service with regard to efficiency and lifetime.
The results from ISO 16890-4 may also be used by other standards that define or classify the particle
removal efficiency in the size range of 0,3 to10 μm when electrostatic removal mechanism is an important
factor to consider, for example ISO 29461.
2 Normative References
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated
references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced
document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO/DIS 16890-1, Air filters for general ventilation — Part 1: Technical specifications, requirements and
efficiency classification system based upon Particulate Matter (PM)
ISO/DIS 16890-2, Air filters for general ventilation — Part 2: Measurement of fractional efficiency and air
flow resistance
ISO 29464, Cleaning equipment for air and other gases — Terminology
3 Terms and Definitions
Terms and definitions used in this standard are based on ISO 29464.
4 Symbols and abbreviated terms
IPA abbreviation for Iso Propyl Alcohol (isopropanol)
© ISO 2015 – All rights reserved 1

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5 General Test Requirements
5.1 General
This procedure is used to determine the minimum test efficiency and to test whether the filter particulate
efficiency is dependent on the electrostatic removal mechanism. This is accomplished by measuring the
removal efficiency of an untreated filter and the corresponding efficiency after conditioning.
Many types of air filters rely to different extents on the effects of passive electrostatic charges on the
fibres to achieve higher particle removal efficiencies, particularly in the initial stages of their working
life, at low resistance to airflow.
Exposure to some types of challenge, such as combustion particles, fine particles, or oil mist in service
may affect the action of these electric charges so that the initial efficiency may drop substantially after an
initial period of service. This drop in the particle removal efficiency can be reduced by a slight increase
in mechanical efficiency from the collection of particles in the filtration media. The amount of the drop
and the amount of the increase can vary by filter type, service location, and atmospheric air conditions.
The procedure described here indirectly but quantitatively shows the extent of the electrostatic charge
effect on the initial performance on a full size filter (measured according to ISO 16890-2). It indicates the
level of efficiency obtainable with the charge effect removed (or minimized by IPA vapour conditioning)
and with no increase in mechanical efficiency. It should not be assumed that the measured conditioned
(“discharged”) efficiency always represents real life behaviour. The treatment of a filter as described
in this standard may affect the structure of the fibre matrix or chemically affect the fibres or even
fully destroy the filter medium. Hence, this procedure may not be applicable to all types of filters. If
degradation shows a visual, physical change or a pressure drop change of more than 20 % but minimum
10 Pa this standard is not applicable and the filter cannot be classified according to ISO 16890-1.
5.2 Test Device Requirements
The test device shall be designed or marked so as to prevent incorrect mounting. The complete test
device (filter and frame) shall be made of material suitable to withstand normal usage and exposure
to the range of temperature, humidity and corrosive environments likely to be encountered in service.
5.3 Test Device Selection
The test device shall be mounted in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations and
after equilibration to standard climatic conditions weighed to the nearest gram. Before starting the
conditioning the initial pressure drop and initial fractional efficiency shall be determined according to
the measurement procedure described in ISO 16890-2.
The test device shall be a full size filter element with a nominal face dimension of 610 x 610 mm (24 inch
x 24 inch) with a maximum length (depth) of 760 mm (30 inch). If for any reason, dimensions do not
allow testing of a test device under standard test conditions, assembly of two or more smaller devices
of the same type or model is permitted, provided no leaks occur in the resulting assembly. For filters
with a higher length or depth, the test cabinet described in 7.1 can be scaled accordingly. The operating
conditions of such accessory equipment shall be recorded.
5.4 Test Rig Requirements
Critical dimensions and arrangements of the test apparatus are shown in the figures of this Standard
and are intended as guides to help construct a test rig to meet the performance requirements of this
Standard. All dimensions shown are mandatory unless otherwise indicated. Tolerances are given shown
in the figures herein. Units shown are in mm (inch) unless otherwise indicated.
The design of equipment not specified, (including but not limited to holding frame, IPA trays, test rig
surroundings and auxiliaries) is discretionary, but the equipment must have adequate capacity to meet
the performance and health and safety requirements described in Clause 8.
2 © ISO 2015 – All rights reserved

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oSIST prEN ISO 16890-4:2015
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6 Test materials
The test liquid for the conditioning step to discharge filter media and equalise electrostatic surface
charges on the filter fibres is IPA (abbreviation for Iso Propyl Alcohol, commonly known as isopropanol
or 2-propanol). IPA is placed inside the test chamber to evaporate until the equilibrium of IPA vapour in
ambient air is reached. So liquid IPA will not be in contact with the filter media.
Isopropanol (IPA) – formula: C H O HC--CHOH CH
3 8
33
Isopropanol properties:
3
Densitiy 0,7855 kg/m
Molecular weight 60,09 g/mol
Melting point 185 K
Boiling point 355 K
Flash point 285 K
Vapour pressure 0,0597 bar (at 298K)/0,0432 bar (at 293 K)/0,0814 bar (at 303 K)
To be calculated as follow:
B
log PA=−
()
10
TC+
where
P = pressure (bar),               T = Temperature (K)
A = 4,57795                      B = 1221,423
C = -87,474
(note: 1 bar = 100 kPa)
Explosion Limits (in air) Lower Limit 2 % (vol.), Upper Limit 12 % (vol.) – both at 293 K
CAS-number 67-63-0
For the conditioning test a IPA purity of 99,5 % is needed.
7 Test cabinet
7.1 General
The test cabinet must consist of a filter holding chamber and one or two IPA tray holding chambers. Each
chamber may have separate doors for service. The filter holding chamber must allow the installation of
a full size filter (the test device) in a way, that the filter does not touch the test cabinet walls and allows
air/vapour to pass around freely by diffusion. There shall be an open air passage between the IPA tray
holding chamber and the filter holding chamber to guarantee that the mixture of air and IPA vapour can
equilibrate in the whole test cabinet volume as easy as possible. To make sure that test devices with non-
rigid, self-supporting structures, like bag filters, are installed in a proper way and offering the full media
surface to the air/vapour mixture, the filter holding frame is in a horizontal position and the test device
is hanging vertically (dust air side of the filter to the top, clean air side to the bottom of the chamber).
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oSIST prEN ISO 16890-4:2015
ISO/DIS 16890-4:2015(E)

7.2 Test Cabinet Dimensions and Construction Materials
The test cabinet shall be made of stainless or galvanized steel. Due to the risk of explosion, all single
parts of the test cabinet shall be grounded to prevent electrostatic charging of surfaces. IPA vapour is
denser than air and can stratify within the chamber, possibly causing all areas of the filter not to be
subjected to the concentration of IPA vapour. Therefore the positioning of the several IPA trays inside the
IPA holding chamber of the cabinet is adjacent to the filter holding chamber, so that an equal distribution
of IPA vapour within the cabinet is achieved quickly.
The test cabinet must be capable to install a full size filter with face dimensions of 610 x 610 mm (24 inch
x 24 inch). The maximum length / depth of the test device shall be 760 mm (30 inch). To allow the air
passing freely around the test device by diffusion the outer filter holding chamber dimensions shall
be 750 x 750 x 850 mm (29,5 inch x 29,5 inch x 33,5 inch). Figure 1 shows the recommended size and
dimension of the test cabinet.
Dimension in mm
Figure 1 — Test cabinet schematic drawing
To make sure, that the air inside the test cabinet will be saturated with IPA very quickly at least 2,000 ml
(= 1,571g) (68 fl-oz or 0,055 oz) liquid IPA shall be filled into the trays before starting the conditioning.
2 2
The trays shall offer at least 1,0 m (10,8 ft ) free surface area for IPA evaporation. Each tray shall be
filled with liquid IPA and covered before starting the conditioning procedure. The filling of the trays
should be done under an extraction hood. The mixture of ambient air and IPA in the test cabinet shall
not interact with the ambient air (proper seal).
The container with IPA shall not be in direct contact with sunlight or any other heat radiation that may
alter the vapour characteristics significantly. Respecting this and with controlling temperature and
humidity within the foreseen ranges there is no need for instrumentation to verify that the IPA vapour
concentration surrounding the test device as the air in the chamber is almost saturated with IPA vapour.
The test cabinet should be used in a separate room with air extraction/or under a hood and the explosion
proof fan should run all the time to ventilate the test cabinet area adequately. Secondly the trays with
liquid IPA shall be uncovered and placed inside the filter housing. After closing the cabinet door wait
for 30 minutes. Then open the filter door and place the test device into (upstream side towards IPA –
vertical/horizontal).
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Close the door tight. Dependent on the room ventilation concept the fan of the hood can be turned off.
Once the discharge time is reached turn on the fan again, open the door and immediately remove the test
device. Finally pull out the IPA trays, cover them and store them in the extraction hood.
7.3 Environment and Temperature and Relative Humidity
Mixtures of air and IPA vapour form an explosive mixture when the mixture is in the correct mixture
percentages (see clause 6 and 8). Air saturated with IPA vapour falls within this range. Therefore the test
cabinet itself shall be placed under a special ventilation hood or similar to ventilate the area from IPA
vapour during conditioning and especially when opening the doors of the filter housing. Due to possible
explosive mixture of air and IPA vapour around the test cabinet one has to define an explosive zone,
which leads to numerous preventive actions, like keeping off every kind of ignition source, grounding
the cabinet and more.
The room air where the test cabinet is installed shall be controlled to 25 °C ± 5 (
...