Description
For over 3 decades, Palas® has built filter test systems for filters and filter media or has upgraded existing test rigs with components, such as aerosol generators (droplets, salts and solids), aerosol spectrometers, dilution systems, discharger systems and automation software.
In the field of room air filtration, more than 14 existing test rigs have already been upgraded and automated using Palas® technology to the complete satisfaction of our international customers.
Upgrading and automation of particle measurement, as offered by Palas® with the GVT 3000 (General Ventilation Test System Upgrade), serves in quality assurance and the development of filters in EN 779, ASHRAE 52.2 and ISO 16980 test rigs. The upgrade consists of an aerosol spectrometer, incl. laptop/PC and monitor, aerosol generators (optionally: discharge unit), sampling system, as well as automation of the measurement process.
The Palas® aerosol generators offer unrivalled consistency in terms of the particle concentration and size. This forms the basis for the very good repeatability of test results using the Palas® filter testing systems and test rig upgrades.
Fig. 1: Aerosol generation EN 779
Thanks to the high-resolution light scattering spectrometer Promo® 3000, the fraction separation efficiencies can be determined with greater ease, speed, reliability and accuracy. With the aid of patented optical fibre technology, there are practically no particle losses in the sampling lines, as the sensors can be positioned directly at the measurement point.
With the Fidas®system, Palas®offers the only optical aerosol spectrometer certified in accordance with EN 12341:1998 and EN 14907:2005 for PM2.5 and PM10 measurements. The Palas® aerosol spectrometer Promo® is almost the same in the design as the certified Fidas® system and provide reliable PM values for filter testing. FTControl from Palas® is simple, reliable and fast filter testing software that has been proven internationally. It enables the test procedure to be executed fully automatically in accordance with EN 779, ASHRAE 52.2 and ISO 16890, including generation of standard-compliant test reports.
Our quality in detail
The GVT 3000 test rig upgrade is modular and can therefore be adapted to the relevant standards.
• Filter testing in accordance with EN 779:2012
• Filter testing in accordance with ASHRAE 52.2
• Filter testing in accordance with ISO 16890
Individual components of the GVT 3000 test rig upgrade:
1. Variable aerosol generation: Depending on the standard for testing, Palas® offers aerosol generators for dispersion of different dusts (e.g. A 1 – A4, ASHRAE, Aramco etc.), salts (e.g. KCl/NaCl), oils (e.g. DEHS) and suspensions. All generators are clearly characterized according to the new VDI 3491 and offer the highest dosing consistency in terms of particle size distribution and particle concentration. Shortening of the measurement time, e.g. through increased dust concentration.
2. Discharge: (ISO 16890): ISO 16890 calls for aerosol discharge using KCl as the test aerosol. Palas® offers an electrical system, CD 2000, for this purpose. Special advantage: The discharge is easy to switch on and off and is almost maintenance-free.
3. Light-scattering spectrometer: The aerosol spectrometers Promo® System is based on the same technology as the Fidas® system certified for PM values. The aerosol spectrometers are characterised by high resolution measurement of particle size and particle concentration in up to 60 size classes in one measurement range, e.g. 0.2 – 10 µm (four measurement ranges between 0.2 – 100 µm) and deliver PM values reliably for PM1, PM2,5 and PM10.
4. Sampling:Â Representative sampling connected to the existing test channel incl. isokinetic probes for raw gas and clean gas measurement points.
5. Automation: Automation of the test rig for the acquisition of sensor data, such as differential pressure and volume flow, as well as controlling the relevant test rig components, aerosol generators, light-scattering spectrometers, dischargers and ventilators is achieved with the worldwide proven FTControl software in combination with separate plug-and-play test rig control electronics incl. I/O module. Palas® delivers the measurement transducers for humidity, temperature, barometric pressure, differential pressure at the filter under test, as well as volume flow set point selection. Components already on the test rig can be integrated in the automation process.
The individual Palas® components (aerosol generators, dilution systems and aerosol spectrometers) are coordinated with each other thus delivering fast, reproducible and therefore cost-effective measurement results. During pre-delivery acceptance testing and final inspection of the system, Palas® carries out the necessary tests that are required to provide clear proof of the function of the individual components.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
