Truck driver waving from open truck door

Commercial Air Filters for the Transportation Industry

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The quality of air that we breathe has never been more polluted than it is today. This is especially true if you live in a big city or are regularly around highly trafficked areas of automobiles. One of the biggest culprits adding to the pollution and causing poor air quality is consumer and industrial motor vehicles.

While it is true that we live in a time where electric car usage is on the rise, the ratio of carbon fuel powered vehicles is still vastly outnumbered by their gas guzzling counterparts. It is important for even the average motorist to maintain a proper air filter for their vehicle, but it is absolutely crucial for anyone working in or employing people in the transportation industry. Breathing clean cabin air may help drivers be more alert so they can finish their routes safely

Air and fuel filters are just as important to keep contaminants at bay. But, if you’re like most drivers and equipment operators, changing a dirty cabin air filter may not even be on your radar. Most people probably don’t even know that a cabin air filter is in their car tells us filters are generally ignored and rarely mentioned by service advisors during the service walk around.

As an industrial transportation company, it is your duty to make sure your employees are either educated on this matter or that your vehicles are properly maintained for health safety. AC performance will be degraded and inside air filtration will suffer if the filter is not serviced.

Cabin Air Filters

Protecting cabin air quality and the health of workers is crucially important for manufacturers of off-road vehicles and heavy machinery. Dangerous emission pollutants usually range in size from 2 to 10 microns in diameter and can severely aggravate the lungs when inhaled. A working cabin air filter will easily catch these and keep them from going into the passenger cabin to be inhaled by those who are in the vehicle.

Cabin air filters clean outside air before entering the operator’s cabin protecting him or her from dust, volatile organic compounds and potentially harmful particulate matter. In addition, cabin air filters also clean recirculated hot or cold air, based on a 60/40 split of outside to inside air.

On average, Americans drive nearly 14,000 miles per annum with an average of one hour and 40 minutes on the road. As traffic levels continue to rise, the air quality on highways and surrounding areas is drastically deteriorating. Dust, pollen and other industrial pollutants are threatening the health and safety of all people on the road.

A little-known fact is that the levels of harmful pollutants are as much as six times higher inside an industrial vehicle than on the outside, especially if there is not a proper air filter installed in the vehicle. To combat this, install a proper cabin air filter such as the ones made by EFS. These types of filters can prevent harmful pollutants such as spores, pollen, gasses and other volatile organic compounds from entering the cabin, keeping your driver safe and healthy.

Cabin filters work much like a standard HVAC system. These filters can trap up to 99% of airborne contaminants before they enter the interior through the heating or air conditioning system. There are three main types of cabin filters available on the market: particle cabin filters, activated charcoal carbon filters, and anti-bacterial filters.

Particle Cabin Filters

Particle cabin filters serve the primary function of filtering out pollen, diesel soot, dust, and dirt from the interior of the vehicle’s cabin. A proper particle cabin filter must be designed with a maximum filtration surface area in order to trap all particulate matter without slowing the free-flow of air into the vehicle’s cabin. These filters capture the largest grade of pollutants and as such, must be cleaned or replaced on a regular basis. Certain transportation industries will require maintenance on these types of filters more often than others based on vehicle usage.

Activated charcoal carbon filters offer enhanced capabilities to ensure the flow of clean air into the vehicle’s cabin. This type of filter is very successful in terms of keeping the cabin a safe and healthy environment for your driver. Much like a basic particle cabin filter, these commercial air filters capture large particulate matter from the airflow, but they also trap harmful gasses through the use of an activated charcoal layer built into the filter.

Fumes from burnt fuel such as nitrogen dioxide, and carbon monoxide, and sulfur dioxide are completely eliminated through the use of this type of filter. One other positive fringe benefit of these filters is the removal of unpleasant odors from the cabin air flow. This can also help prevent mold buildup in the ventilation system.

Antibacterial Carbon Filters

Antibacterial filters with activated carbon are essentially a three-stage, filtration system. The first layer of the filter will separate and remove larger particulate matter from the air (dust and pollen larger than 10 microns). The second layer traps gases and prevents the buildup of mold. The third stage is an antibacterial and antimicrobial that prevents any harmful volatile organic compounds that may have slipped through the first two layers. When it comes to choosing the highest-performing filter for your industrial transports, look no further than an antibacterial carbon filter with activated carbon.

Battery Cooling Air Filters

If you happen to be in the commercial public transit industry, you are probably using large buses. These vehicles require the consideration of not only the driver’s health, but the health of all potential passengers that use your vehicle. A special type of battery powered air filter has been designed for these vehicles than can drastically improve the indoor air quality on your bus. These filters are mounted to the roof of the transit bus. These filters can remove particulate matter as small as .05 microns without causing a significant pressure drop to the air flow or comprising optimal operating temperatures.

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M.E.R.V. text overlayed on background of filter

Choosing the Right Filter for your HVAC System

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The air filtration industry has seen quite a bit of change over the last decade. Manufacturers have created new products, such as higher quality and functioning air filters, that not only have improved indoor air quality (IAQ), but also have reduced installation and operation costs of air-filtration equipment in commercial facilities.

Along with technology improvements, industry organizations are adopting standards, guidelines and requirements that promote healthy indoor air quality. These organizations are continually learning about the impact indoor air quality can have on building occupants, including productivity and overall occupant health as air quality improves.

As engineering and maintenance managers continue to focus on indoor air quality and its impact on their facilities and occupants, manufacturers such as EFS are providing them with more efficient HVAC systems and components, including air filters. These technological advances include reduced pressure drops and overall improved filter efficiency throughout the HVAC system.

Organizing Bodies & Standards

When the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) introduced indoor air quality standards, it signaled an important and necessary change in the air-filtration industry. ASHRAE has been aggressively promoting the adoption and use of the minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) system to standardize definitions of efficiencies. When selecting an air filter for your business, avoid manufacturers who have not adopted the MERV system.

In layman’s terms, MERV measures a filter’s arrestance, which is defined as a filter’s ability to remove large airborne particles from the air. Next it measures dust-spot efficiency, or a filter’s ability to remove small airborne particles. The MERV system then takes these two factors into account and assigns a number based on the filter’s ability to remove the particles. Several types of air filters are common in commercial HVAC systems.

Types of HVAC Filters

There are four common types of air filters that you will find for sale for your HVAC system.
Fiberglass filters: Layered fiberglass fibers are laid over each other to form the filter media and typically are reinforced with a metal grating that supports the fiberglass to prevent failure and collapse. Because of their metal grating they are prone to rips and tears in the media. These filters are very common and meant to be thrown out when they have served their purpose, not replaced or cleaned.

Polyester and pleated filters: These filters are similar to fiberglass filters but typically have a higher resistance to airflow and a superior dust-stopping ability. These filters are often housed in sturdy plastic that prevent tearing and rips to the non-shedding media. These filters, such as the EFS V-Bank filter are a very popular choice for today’s modern industrial filtration needs.

High efficiency particulate arrestance (HEPA) filters: These units filter the air passing through them at a very fine scale. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and its contractors use HEPA filters that meet DOE standard STD-3020-97, Specification for HEPA Filters Used by DOE Contractors, to filter 99.97 percent of all particles 0.3 microns or larger. These would be found in very high-end electronic factories or medical buildings.

Washable air filters: These products are not as common and rely on the build-up of dust along the cloth to improve the efficiency of the filter. Industrial processes involving high volumes of coarse dust are typical applications. These are not recommended for medical buildings or places with high volumes of occupants as they are more prone to biofilm build up and spreading harmful materials through the air.

EFS High Efficiency V-Bank Filters

A V-Bank filter is what we call a mini-pleated filter; it’s a high-efficiency filter with a higher media area than a standard box filter. The standard size is still 24 x 24 x 12, like the box filter, but there’s a big difference between the mini-pleated V-Bank filter and a box filter: most box filters have a metal frame and don’t have a large amount of filtration media. The actual pleat packs, which is what the media is manufactured into, are installed into the V-Bank filter in a ‘V’ shape – hence the term V-Bank. The majority of ours are 4 V’s.

High efficiency V-bank filters from EFS offer high efficiency, low-pressure drop, long filter life, and filter media that resists moisture. These filters are designed to tolerate high velocities and turbulence, making them suitable for many types of air handling systems. The synthetic filter contains no metal parts, eliminating the risk of corrosion. EFS high efficiency synthetic V-bank filters are made of lightweight plastic for easy handling and transportation. The high-quality build gives our filters longer performance life, which reduces maintenance and replacement costs.

The frames of those V-Banks are plastic, and though the majority of EFS V-Bank filters have both synthetic and a glass-laid media available, we see much more use for the synthetic media as it does not respond to moisture, which is important due to our work in high-humidity areas. Hospitals, gas turbine power plants, clean rooms, universities, data centers, airports, hotels, micro-electronics or pharmaceutical manufacturers, and pretty much any application that has a true air handler could use a V-Bank filter as their final filter.

It is especially crucial in hospitals and cleanrooms to maintain a sterile environment and remain confident that airborne diseases or toxins are being filtered correctly and efficiently. Making the V- Bank filter the perfect fit using its high efficiency, low-pressure drop, long filter life and synthetic filter media that resists moisture. They are also designed to withstand high velocities and turbulence making them durable in most air handling systems. In any case, the V-Bank filter possesses very few cons in its application for air handling units.

Patented 1” recess design for “V” style filters drastically lowers pressure drop when used in conjunction with pleated or panel style pre-filters on the face of the filter. The patented 1” recess provides full utilization of the entire pre-filter media area.

V-Bank filters have been developed specifically for intake, exhaust, and recirculated air filtration HVAC systems that have stringent requirements for clean air quality and cost efficiency. The MV85 V-Banks are potted into a high strength all plastic frame. This assures the user of maximum operational dependability and consistent filtration throughout each specific application. The sturdy construction assures optimum performance under turbulent flow conditions and load changes. This means that the risk of particle or fiber shedding is practically eliminated. The media is resistant to physical damage from moisture and chemicals.

When selecting your next HVAC air filter, look no further than the EFS High Efficiency V-Bank Filters.

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Advantages of Soft-Pocket Bag Filters

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When talking about industrial air filtration systems, the conversation tends to center around HEPA air purifiers, ionic air purifiers and the less popular ozone air purifiers. These systems make up the basic set of technologies behind industrial air purification.

While these are important to understand, none of these technologies can succeed without the support of a proper pre-filter. Pre-filters help to ensure that your industrial air filtration system is working at peak efficiency while costing you the least amount of money in upkeep and repairs.

Pre-filters are designed to capture floating particulate matter that are larger than 5 microns. These filters are meant to protect the primary filters that trap much smaller particulate matter and ensure that they function optimally. While the primary filter could catch what the pre-filter catches, doing so would drastically reduce the efficiency and effectiveness in catching the smaller particles in the air.

At the same time, having only a pre-filter would not be sufficient enough to purify the air of all harmful contaminants and thus both are required for a proper industrial air filtration system to work optimally.

Modern-Day Offices and the Challenges of Clean Air

In today’s modern office environment there are many challenges when it comes to keeping the indoor air quality (IAQ) at its peak cleanliness. The IAQ of many modern offices suffer from factors such as poor circulation, outdated ventilation systems, and energy-efficient windows that cannot be opened to let in fresh air.

Ventilation systems that are inefficient or not maintained properly can be more of a detriment than a help to your indoor air quality. Clogged commercial air filters that aren’t cleaned or replaced regularly can trap air pollutants in the environment instead of removing them and in some cases, end up simply circulating contaminated air around the office. In cases like this, the outdoor air can be better quality than the indoor air which is completely opposite of the goal of having clean indoor air.

Providing Healthier Workplaces Through Filtration

According to the National Air Filtration Association, “Facility managers should always look to air filtration and cleaning as the best way to protect the health and safety of the occupants in a facility by removing contaminants from the air.”

Studies have shown that indoor air quality has a direct impact on employee health. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), poor air quality can increase illness risks. The EPA estimates that poor indoor air quality costs U.S. businesses billions of dollars each year.

Benefits of Commercial Air Filtration

Studies have shown that good indoor air quality has an overwhelmingly positive effect on people’s health and general productivity. People working in an environment with high indoor air quality have shown to be more alert and have an overall higher cognitive performance. This translates into fewer sick days and improved well-being. Commercial air filtration also benefits the following:

• Helps reduce the chance of sick-building syndrome
• Reduces interior maintenance associated with staining and cleaning
• Eliminates fire hazards by removing lint and other materials in ductwork
• Helps remove airborne bacteria
• Protects against build-up on heating/cooling coils
• Reduces particle sizes that can cause short circuiting in microchips
• Removes contaminants that can become respiratory irritants

How You Can Improve Indoor Air Quality

• Take preventive measures by regularly maintaining and inspecting your air purifiers and air filters; as well as heating and cooling systems to stop the spread of pollutants.
• Analyze variables such as carbon dioxide emissions, humidity, airflow and temperature to determine whether there is an air quality problem in your office environment. Based on this analysis, create an indoor air profile that includes potential sources of indoor air pollution and a strategy for indoor air management.
• Ensure that pollutants are diluted and removed from the building through proper ventilation.
• Use filtration systems to purify the air of remaining pollutants and make sure to upgrade your HVAC system anytime your building is modified or upgraded.
• Invest in proper industrial air filters including a quality pre-filter such as the EFS Soft Pocket Bag Filter and replace them regularly

EFS Soft Pocket Bag Filters

Soft Pocket Bag Filters from EFS have excellent durability, performance, and value for applications that require medium to high efficiencies. These filters have 100% synthetic filter media with non-shedding fibers that resists moisture, chemicals, and bacterial growth. The extruded aluminum frame gives the filter enhanced stability, reduced corrosion, and a greater filter life.

The ultrasonically sealed pocket seams prevent leaks & tears while the internal pocket spacers effectively channel the air providing low pressure drop and low energy costs. The rugged build of the filter’s frame prevents bending or collapsing in the most turbulent and hostile environments, allowing for even loading. EFS offers these filters in 85% (MERV 11) and 95% (MERV 14) efficiencies.

Soft pocket filters typically handle lower air flow more effectively as they are designed for optimum number of pockets and pocket depth to achieve lowest pressure drop to a given air flow rate. Rigid pocket filters can withstand extremely high pressure loads and micro-fine dust concentrations and are often used as a final filter in the air intake for gas turbines, hospitals and computer rooms.

Soft Pocket Bag Pre-Filters vs. Rigid Pocket Pre-Filters

The terms bag filter and pocket filter are often used interchangeably – but there is a difference between these two industrial air filters.

Typically, a bag filter has a metal frame (galvanized steel or aluminum) with anywhere from 3-6 pockets of micro glass or synthetic filtration media. The ‘pockets’ of a bag filter are not ‘rigid’ and sometimes have a tendency to collapse in the air stream, especially under high airflow.

Engineered Filtration Systems soft pocket bag filters are uniquely designed with an extruded aluminum frame for added durability. In addition, the seams of the pockets are ultrasonically sealed, as opposed to sewn like most bag filters, to prevent leakage and reduce tearing.

The 3 Ms of Industrial Air Filtration System Maintenance

When maintaining your industrial air filtration system, consider using periodic quantitative evaluation to determine the total system efficiency. Building owners should perform various field inspections to ensure filter seals and gaskets are installed properly and gauges are reading pressure drops accurately. This will allow you to properly apply the 3 Ms: Measure, Monitor and Manage the HVAC air filtration systems.

HVAC systems should be locked while conducting maintenance to avoid and prevent contaminants from reentering into the moving air stream. Maintenance plans and schedule of operations should also be put in place to make sure that the filtration system works as intended. Life cycle cost analysis will also ensure that the filtration system will satisfy the building needs while providing adequate protection to the building occupants in the office workplace today. Replacing your filter and pre-filter regularly is key.

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air filters over lay on office setting with workers

The Importance of Gas Phase Filtration

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The quality of the air we breathe is of the utmost importance to our health and wellbeing; especially when we live and work in a world that continues to quickly advance in its technological capacity and demands. Most people are aware of the pollutants released into the air from homes or motor vehicles, but other kinds of pollutants involved near industrial facilities require stricter air quality regulations.

Our atmosphere around the workplace may contain gaseous chemicals that make it critical for companies to use commercial air filtration to protect the environment, their employees and machine equipment.

What is Gas Phase Filtration?

Gas Phase Filtration is the removal of harmful, nuisance and toxic gases from the air in your work environment. This applies to air coming into your facility which brings in outside pollution, as well as the contaminants being released by your processes inside. Not only does gas phase filtration improve the indoor air quality (IAQ), it also allows you to protect your industrial equipment and office supplies against corrosion and odors that are harmful to your employees.

How Gas Filtration Systems Work

The process of gas phase filtration is actually quite simple. First the gas contaminated air passes through pre-filters which trap the suspended particles. They then pass through a chemical media bed (or several beds), chemically destroying or retaining any remaining gaseous impurities.

Deep Bed Systems vs. Thin Bed Systems

When it comes to gas phase filtration systems, there are two main types to consider: Deep Bed Systems and Thin Bed Systems. Let’s break down the differences between the two.

Deep Bed Systems consist of either single- or multiple-perforated, hollow housing (beds) that are filled with chemical media. These beds are placed perpendicular to the direction of flow of air in order to maximize the exposure to the surface’s media.

These systems are used for ‘pressurization’ applications, wherein the level of airborne contamination is very high and a good quantity of media holding is a necessity for prolonged uninterrupted use. In these systems, the media will eventually be completely spent and will need to be replaced. Deep bed systems are powered units using a horizontal configuration.

On the other hand, Thin Bed Systems consist of either single or multiple stages of hollow, perforated, retractable V-shaped modules, known as cassettes. They are filled with chemical media and are placed in the path of airflow in order to maximize the exposure to the media.

The systems major parts also include a set of pre-filters, final filters, a fan/blower assembly, control panel, and pressure-drop measuring gauges. Thin Bed Systems are used for ‘air recirculation’ applications in Commercial/Industrial buildings. In other words, most office buildings and factories. Media holding capacity and pressure drops in Thin Bed units are smaller than Deep Bed units. Thin Bed systems can be powered or unpowered units of both vertical and horizontal configurations.

Gas Phase Filtration Media

The gas phase filtration media is the substance inside the filters that serve to purify the air in the environment. Certain substances, such as activated carbon or sodium permanganates are often used as Gas Phase Filtration Media. The media is found in the form of small pellets that are porous in nature. They are usually filled inside the filters before running the equipment.

These pellets are often made of binders such as activated alumina or other elements. The sodium permanganates are widely used as media because it boosts the adsorption rate for a longer duration, which in turn extends the life of the filter. The filtration media generally targets contaminants such as hydrogen sulfide, sulfur oxides, formaldehyde, hydrocarbons, organic acids, VOCs, nitric oxide, etc.

This type of media does require periodic replacement and disposal. There are only so many impurities from the air this type of media can absorb. Once the media’s limit has been reached, the media should be removed, properly disposed of, and new media are installed. The used media is not recyclable and should not be shaken excessively during disposal (in order to prevent contaminants from going back into the air).

If you don’t feel comfortable replacing the media yourself, a professional can be contracted to safely remove the media and dispose of it. If you are trying to install a new media on your own, use safety gear including a pair of gloves, protective goggles, and a dust mask to prevent inhaling directly, as the media contains the toxic chemicals that have been absorbed into it.
 
Benefits of Using Gas Phase Filtration Media for Air Purification

There are many benefits to using gas phase filtration media in your HVAC air filtration systems. First and foremost, this type of media is non-toxic and has shown no signs of having harmful impacts on human health. Gas phase filters help prevent the spread of microbial organisms in the air that other types of media might release due to the promotion and growth of germs – germs that can infect people and cause damage to your industrial equipment.

If handled properly, the media will never re-release the contaminants it has trapped inside back into the airstream. Lastly, materials like activated carbon not only purify the air from the impurities, but also serve as an agent to remove bad odors.

EFS Gas Phase Filters

When it comes to choosing the right gas phase filter for your air filtration system, EFS has some outstanding carbon-based media products that will more than suit your needs. The EFS Carbon V-Bank (GPC.V) Filter is designed to efficiently remove particulates that contaminate the indoor air as well as a wide range of odors at high air flows.

Excellent for use in state-of-the-art air conditioning and indoor climate control systems such as those in airports, hospitals, museums, laboratories, commercial buildings, etc. If you simply need a media replacement, look no further than the AC105 Activated Carbon Media which is EFS’s most effective media at removing and preventing odors and fumes from building up in recirculated air systems.

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Hex nuts showing rust corrosion

Air Filters for Controlling Corrosion

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When people discuss air pollution and the effects it has on our society, the conversation usually centers around the sources of the pollutants and the negative health effects they can have on people, such as the development of cancer.

One factor that is often overlooked and under-examined is that air pollution can have a corrosive effect on man-made structures, monuments, and public infrastructures such as bridges and highways. It can even affect the everyday lives of the average citizen in the form of degrading the exterior of your homes, motor vehicles, outside patio furniture, and barbecue grills.

What is Corrosion?

By definition, Corrosion is a natural process that converts a refined metal into a more chemically stable form such as oxide, hydroxide, or sulfide. It is the gradual destruction of materials by chemical and/or electrochemical reactions with their environment, and in our case, the reaction of these materials to pollutant and particulate matter in the air.

The most common materials that face corrosion in our daily life are metals and stone, materials that make up most buildings and public infrastructures. Airborne contaminants such as particulate matter are created because of the chemical reactions between liquids and solids. These same liquids and solids, including salt and black carbon, can interact with the molecules within metals and accelerate decay.

The Effects of Corrosion

As mentioned above, corrosion can have negative effects on people as well as commercial industries. Car owners might find the paint on their car wearing down faster in highly polluted areas as well as reduced performance of their vehicle. Homeowners have to fear anything kept outside on a patio or backyard for the constant exposure to airborne pollutants. Bigger problems have the potential to arise for public works and services too.

Corrosion can cause damage to bridge supports which could lead to bridge failure, endangering any and all who travel across them. Oil pipelines that are exposed to corrosion can have highly detrimental effects on the environment if they rupture. Commercial airplanes are at risk of the technical equipment wearing down to unsafe levels if exposed to corrosion, and I don’t have to tell you what kind of problems might occur from a malfunctioning airplane.

Corrosion caused by air pollutants are like the greek mythological hydra – if you cut off one head, two more grow in its place. In other words, corrosion to materials made of iron release harmful pollutants that then further contaminate the air, continuing and increasing the cycle.

How to Prevent Corrosion in the Workplace

When protecting high-grade, industrial equipment, there are preventative measures you can take to protect your property. First and foremost, invest in a high-efficiency air filtration system and a quality commercial air filter, such as the EFS High Efficiency V-Bank Filters.

Next, treat metal surfaces with protectants in order reduce the effect of corrosion from airborne pollutants. Lastly, if it’s possible to do so, you can galvanize your metal items, which in layman’s terms is to cover the product in zinc, a material that is highly resistant to corrosion.

Marine Environments

A unique area of concern when it comes to corrosion is that of marine environments. By that we mean an area that is exposed to the sea and marine life, essentially ships near the water. If your business is close to the ocean there are extra considerations when choosing the proper HVAC system and commercial air filter.

While there may be a bit of relief from industrial pollutants due to the cleansing nature of the ocean, there are other factors to consider such as extreme weather conditions like strong winds and salt water air sprays. These two factors alone can greatly speed up the corrosion process. These wet environments pose extra problems for filtration such as airborne bacteria, yeast, molds, and gasses.

If you work near this type of environment, consider air filters that are washable and do not have a porous surface. These types of filters do not encourage the growth of mold, bacteria, or fungi.

Preparing for Corrosion Control

If you are selecting an air filters for your industrial needs, there are several factors to consider before making your purchase. A rule of thumb for selecting HVAC systems: leave it to the experts and don’t trust a flashy brochure. Efficacy rates are largely exaggerated or measured by standards that are not relevant to your specific environment. This is especially true when trying to filter out gasses.

As for testing procedures to be done by your HVAC provider in order to assess your company’s specific needs. The best type of systems are “multi-pass systems” as they are much more efficient than a “single-pass” system. Your individual needs will determine whether you can incorporate a filtration system into your current ventilation or if you’ll need a standalone system. Don’t fret if you cannot incorporate into your current ventilation as standalone systems are often more effective as they are designed explicitly for your business needs.

Filters that Fight Corrosion

At Engineered Filtration Systems, we have designed filters for single and multi-pass systems that are extremely efficient at removing airborne pollutants and gas at high air flows. Our Gas Phase Filters are first in class at removing harmful gases from the air and have the added benefit of also removing unwanted odors from the environment. These filters can help protect sensitive industrial equipment, products, and procedures. These EFS filters are carbon loaded and made of a non-woven synthetic media with a unique blend of activated carbon inside.

They are excellent for use in state-of-the-art indoor climate control systems such as those in hospitals, airports, hospitals, museums, laboratories and other commercial buildings. If gases are not your main concern, turn to the V4-Bank filters that are built to withstand high velocities and turbulence while serving as an all-around air filter. These rigid-frame, constructed filters are universal to most HVAC systems and will provide a longer lifespan without sacrificing performance.

Call EFS for a free on-site consultation at 800 796-4337.

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2 workers in clean room with coveralls, googles and gloves.

Smart Choices for Cleanroom Commercial Air Filters

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Most people have seen a cleanroom on television or in science fiction movies, often depicted as an all-white, sterile environment that men in alien-like jumpsuits filter in and out of for one nefarious reason or the other. But what is a cleanroom in terms of real-world applications? By definition, a cleanroom is any given, contained space where provisions are made to reduce particulate contamination and control other environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity and pressure.

Effective air filtration is an absolute necessity for maintaining the cleanroom environment. Cleanrooms maintain particulate-free air through the use of either High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) or Ultra Low Particulate Air (ULPA) filters that all air going into the room must pass through. Ironically, the single greatest threat to cleanroom contamination comes from the users themselves.

People who work in a cleanroom undergo comprehensive education and training in the theory of contamination control. Cleanroom personnel often enter and exit through airlocks, sometimes bathe in air showers, and always have to wear special clothing designed to trap contaminants and other particulate matter that the body and skin generate naturally. Contaminants in the air can be generated by people, manufacturing processes, facilities and equipment.

An often unforeseen or unexpected source of contamination is the actual cleanroom facility itself. Over time, particles are released into the air as paint and protective coatings begin to deteriorate, leaks or spills in the air conditioning system, or when sheetrock and sawdust get old and begin to break down. Every precaution taken in a clean room is done with the goal of preventing contamination to the environment.

Types of Cleanrooms

Cleanrooms are designed and constructed with a specific purpose in mind. From the materials used in construction, to the airflow patterns produced by room layout and ventilation system configurations, everything must be considered in order to make the environment as easy to maintain as possible.

There are two main types of cleanrooms. The first is a facility where the entire place is a cleanroom, the other are modular cleanrooms located inside a facility that also have “dirty” rooms. Cleanroom facilities are used in many industries where even the tiniest amount of contamination can affect the outcome of the end product, such as with microelectronics, pharmaceutical, and semiconductor production.

In fact, semiconductor manufacturing, solar panels, LED/LCD/OLED displays, and rechargeable batteries are so sensitive in their manufacturing that their entire production facility must maintain its cleanroom status.

In addition, modular cleanrooms can be built to custom specifications and even shipped to your business for easy installation, no office conversion required. Equipment used in clean rooms must meet certain minimal air contamination standards as they will produce their own unique contaminants that can ruin the cleanroom environment.

Cleaning a Cleanroom

Regular cleaning procedures must be implemented that will effectively clean the area while also minimizing the amount of new contaminants released into the air through the cleaning process itself. Cleanrooms are cleaned using 70% isopropyl alcohol as it is the most effective concentration for disinfection, surprisingly beating out 99% isopropyl. Low-lint cleanroom wipes are used in combination with isopropyl alcohol to clean special materials are used on furniture inside the cleanroom which are for optimal sterilization.

Aseptic grade stainless steel compounding tables are ideal for cleanrooms as they foster safe, clean, and consistent outcomes during sterile product production. A clean stainless-steel table for aseptic processing requires a surface free of bacteria, microorganisms, oil, grease, embedded iron, impurities, and particulate. But how is that cleanliness maintained through shipping, handling, fabrication, and installation?

Safe deployment of a cleanroom table requires delivery with zero transfer of contaminants, residues, or microbes from external environments. Before transit, a cleanroom table is wiped down with 70% isopropyl alcohol and packaged within a cleanroom.

Principles of Airflow

To fully understand what industrial air filter is best for your business, you need to understand how airflow works in an air filtration system. There are two principles for airflow, the “Turbulent Cleanroom” and the “Laminar Flow Cleanroom.” Turbulent, or non-unidirectional, airflow uses air flow hoods and nonspecific velocity filters to keep air in a cleanroom constantly moving around, albeit not in the same direction, hence the name “Turbulent.”

The more common and popular choice for air flow is the “Laminar Flow.” This system is unidirectional and sends air in a horizontally downward motion in a constant stream aimed at filters located on walls or near the cleanroom floor. Often times a Laminar Flow system can cover up to 80% of the cleanroom’s ceiling in order to operate optimally.

Advanced Filtration Concepts Products Make a Difference

In cleanrooms where extremely sensitive production processes require the best air filters, look at EFS F5 and F6 Rigid Pocket Filters as they are first in class amongst competitors. Filters like these are designed with efficiency in mind and provide exceptionally low drops in pressure, something that is critical to the optimal performance of your air filtration system.

These filters also feature what is known as “spacer channels” in order to maintain energy efficiency and provide optimum levels of air flow. These filters are self-supported so they stay rigid in the airstream and are constructed to withstand extreme humidity, high velocities and high turbulence. This makes the filter an excellent choice for almost all air filtration systems.

The F5 and F6 Rigid Pocket Filters work to remove more than 99.7 percent of all airborne particles 0.3 microns or larger. In order to maintain the required low levels of contaminants in the air, these microscopic particles must be constantly removed through a process of air circulation and filtration.

These filters are made of a non-shedding media and are anti-microbial, a feature that will save you money on replacement filters in the long run. They are also designed without metal elements so there is no risk of punctures or corrosion to the filter. EFS products are designed to achieve maximum filtration results, reduce energy consumption, and provide an extremely low total cost of ownership.

Call us for more information about our EFS F5 and F6 Rigid Pocket Filters today at 800 796-4337.

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Proper Selection of Air Filters for Commercial Buildings

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Commercial buildings are held to stringent air filtration standards and regulations to ensure the health and safety of the people inside them. For the average business owner, the world of commercial air filtration systems can be overwhelming.

When it comes to choosing an air filter for your commercial building, it is essential to gather all the facts before investing your hard-earned money. Different types of buildings and businesses have unique air filtration needs and require specific types of air filters in order to remove particulate matter efficiently.

The best general Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) air filtration systems seek to reduce indoor air pollutant levels in order to protect employees from ailments such as the common cold and influenza, among other things. The key to finding the perfect filter is to measure your business’ needs in terms of particle absorption vs. energy efficiency using the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) number that each air filter is assigned.

In simple terms, the higher the MERV number, the more particles are being filtered out of the air, but also the less the air passes through the filter (higher air resistance). The trick is to find the balance between these two factors that best suit your commercial building.

When it comes to using the MERV scale to rate an air filter, the lower numbers indicate low air resistance (and thus low efficiency particle filtration), while the higher numbers indicate high particle filtration (and thus low efficiency air resistance).

MERV 1-4 typically are disposable filters made of fiberglass that are very cost efficient. MERV 5-8 filters feature pleated filters while MERV 9-12 use extended pleated panels. MERV 13-16 are usually electronic filters that require professional installation to use properly.

The Six Signs of a Proper Air Filter

When it comes to selecting the proper air filtration system, there are many technical terms and specifications that can be overwhelming and hard to navigate for the average business owner. We have compiled a list of the most important features to focus on as you research the proper system for your commercial building.

Particle Absorption

General HVAC systems require a constant level of pressure in order to maintain the highest levels of particle absorption. Choosing the proper filter prevents a drop in pressure and allows the system to perform optimally.

Particle Retention

Absorbing harmful particles in the air is only half the air filtration battle. It is pointless to filter the air if the material will eventually slip through the filter and return to the airstream. This is also an important detail to worry about when it comes to replacing filters as you don’t want to undo all the hard work your filter did by accidentally shaking out the particles while changing it out.

Lifespan

Once you’ve found a filter with great particle absorption and retention features, next it is important to look for commercial air filters with a long lifespan. Simply reducing the amount of times you change your filter can greatly improve the air quality in your commercial building. The price of the filter will correlate with the longevity of the filter, but it is widely accepted that investing in a more expensive filter up front will save you money later on. Don’t cut costs when it comes to the lifespan of your filter!

Energy

Another area where you can save some pennies is the energy efficiency of the filter. General HVAC systems require constant pressure, but an energy efficient filter can greatly reduce your electricity costs associated with powering your system.

Filter Material

It is crucial to find an air filter that is made of the proper material. A good filter will be made of a non-shedding fiber. This prevents bacteria and trapped particulate matter from re-entering the airstream once it’s been filtered. It should also be made of a microbial resistant material in order to avoid bacterial growth.

Air filters often cycle between wet and dry cycles which means you need to find a filter that is also made of a moisture resistant media in order to avoid fungal growth, shedding fibers, and pressure drops in the system. Lastly, your filter should have a solid structural integrity as to avoid developing blowouts, rips and holes in the media.

The GreenGuard Guarantee

One final factor to consider when purchasing a filter is whether or not the manufacturer meets Greenguard® safety standards. Greenguard® is a non-profit organization that is independent of product or manufacturer affiliation. Achieving the Greenguard® Certification gives credibility to a manufacturer’s claims of environmental sustainability by backing those claims with irrefutable scientific data from an unbiased, third-party organization.

The Greenguard® Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) certification program offers a guarantee that products made for indoor use must meet very strict chemical emissions standards based on standards set by major health agencies.

Our Recommendation: The EFS V4-Bank Synthetic Air Filter

Some of the leading types of commercial air filters are designed to be compact. Compact air filters like the EFS V4-Bank Synthetic Air Filter are used in general HVAC systems as high efficiency final air filters in industrial, commercial, medical, and institutional applications.

They also serve as pre-filters in HEPA installations. These filters are designed with a sturdy, rigid frame construction in order to prevent damage to the media and are able to withstand high velocities and turbulence. The media is made of non-shedding fibers specially designed to resist moisture and chemicals, all while resisting bacterial growth. This type of filter is an all-around star when it comes to general HVAC systems.

Conclusion

When making your next commercial air filter purchase, make sure to consider the HVAC operating conditions, the efficiency of the air filter (MERV number), and the installation costs. Keep in mind that, as with most things, the quality of the filter is directly proportional to the cost. It may be a larger upfront investment, but it will likely save you money in the long run by not having to replace filters regularly coupled with reduced sick time off taken by employees.

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Diagram of filter showing flow direction

Air Filter Functionality: Efficiency vs. Arrestance

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Commercial air filters remove particulates and gaseous materials from your airstream providing a safer environment for both your workers and machinery. The terms “efficiency” and “arrestance” are used to describe an individual air filter’s functionality.

What is Air Filter Efficiency?

For example, air filter Efficiency measures how well your filter removes microscopic particles such as dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, dust mites and smoke from your airstream.

The filtration industry’s standard test method is ANSI/ASHRAE 52.2 which measures the ability to remove the staining portion of atmosphere dust from test air; also known as Atmospheric Dust Spot Efficiency. These testing standards were created by the National air Filtration Association (NAFA).

What is Air Filter Arrestance?

Air filter Arrestance measures the ability of commercial air filtration to remove synthetic dust from your airstream for larger particles such as dirt, lint, hair and dust. A filter’s dust-holding capacity equals the amount by weight of standard dust the filter holds without exceeding the resistance 0.18 in W.G. (inch water gauge) for low-resistance filters or 0.50 in W.G. for medium-resistance filters and 1.0 in W.G. for high-resistance filters.

Health Hazards & Particle Sizes

Size contaminants and particles are normally depicted in microns; a metric unit of measure where one micron is one-millionth of a metre. In imperial units 1-inch equals 25,400 microns. Typically, the human eye can see particles that are larger than 40 microns.

In comparison, should you have burning wood in your airstream that represents particle sizes of 0.2 – 3 microns vs. beach sand that is 100 – 10,000 microns. Airborne particles are larger solids suspended in the air such as snow, room dust, sand and sea spray. Medium-sized particles include pollen, hair, windblown and coal dust. Small particles take days to years to settle out of a quiet atmosphere and they include viruses, small bacteria, metallurgical fumes, as well as oil and tobacco smoke.

Inhalable dust and airborne particles which enter the nose and mouth are typically of 100 microns in diameter or less and are hazardous to humans. Thoracic dust can reach the lungs and are 10 microns in diameter or less. Respirable dust penetrates the gas exchange region of the lungs and are less than 5 microns. This gives you a good idea of how critical your commercial air filters really are for the health and safety or your employees and equipment.

Conclusion

Because there are numerous types of commercial air filters including washers, dry filters, flat panels, continuous roll, bag filters and High Efficiency Particular (HEPA) filters to name a few, it is crucial that you speak with an experienced manufacturer. EFS provides the most advanced technology and development to deliver the highest-quality, air filtration products at the lowest possible cost. Call EFS today.

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en 779 versus iso 16890 text

The Main Differences Between EN779 and ISO 16890

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The main differences between EN 779 and ISO 16890 standards lie in their approach to methods of air filter testing and classification. This change has occurred when the International Standards Organization (ISO) issued it as an effort to improve air quality in light of new studies, regulations, and increasingly high particulate matter (PM) pollution. The focus of the new standard is on fine dust and it is very detailed in its comprehensive test procedures and classification methods.

New Studies, Expectations, Regulations

Public documentation by the world’s leading health-related groups always refer to PM 10, PM2.5, and PM1 fine dust sizes as the most harmful for humans, but EN 779 did not consider these PM levels.

This public documentation is based on new studies that show an increase in PM pollution. They also show that particles with a diameter of 1 micron or smaller can find their way into the human blood stream through the alveoli cell membranes of the lungs.

Among cardiovascular issues and other effects, nervous system regulation is adversely affected by smaller fine dust particles in the human body. The new ISO standards take into account these studies that have been presented to the public as a logical step in keeping the standards up to date with public expectations as well as with new regulations that have been set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and environmental agencies.

Air Filter Testing

Air filter efficiency, according to EN 779, was to be measured by test procedures that only considered particles in the size of .4 microns. The new ISO 16890 air filter test procedures consider particles from the 10 microns to .3 microns range.

A new test aerosol, potassium chloride (KCL), has also been added to the new testing methods. Methods of testing with through electrostatic discharge procedures, dust feed, and final differential pressure testing procedures have also changed.

Air Filter Classification

Air filters must be capable of separating a minimum of 50 percent of a particle size range to have itself classified for one of the three fine dust fractions, PM10, PM 2.5, and PM1. New classifications are also now called Filter Groups, rather than Filter Classes.

Further, an air filter’s valuation according to its measured arrestance has changed with the new ISO 16890 Standard, and new minimum requirements have been set for efficiency ratings.

Conclusion

Because so many new studies are focusing on the adverse health effects of fine dust, the public’s and government expectations for air quality have risen. In keeping with updated publications, testing procedures and classification methods have changed.

These allow for the selection of the best air filter given the particulate matter pollution in a given geographic area and atmospheric level. For more information about getting your air filtration system up to date with the new ISO 16890 Standards, contact Engineered Filtration Systems, at 1-800-796-4337. Or, visit our complete line of commercial air filters online.

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diagram showing temperature inversion

Temperature Inversions and Air Quality

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If you own a home or business in or near a valley, you need to be aware of temperature inversions and how they affect your air quality. Also called thermal inversions, temperature inversions are also more prevalent when and where the nights are longer and cooler. Awareness of temperature inversions will help any home or business choose the best air filter for maximum health and comfort.

Thermal Inversions

Normally, air expands and cools as it rises through the atmosphere, making the upper atmosphere cooler than the lower atmosphere. During a thermal inversion, though, the air aloft is warmer than the cooler air below, creating a lid on top of the air closer to the ground.

There are two types of thermal inversions. The first is called a surface inversion, which occurs near the earth’s surface. The second is an aloft inversion, which occurs further upward in the atmosphere.

Thermal Inversions and Air Quality

Surface thermal inversions affect air quality especially during the winter when thermal inversions are strongest. Areas of high pressure and low wind will experience longer inversions.

The warmer air above the cooler air suppresses vertical mixing of air and traps pollutants. Exhaust from automobiles, boats, trains, and manufacturing stay trapped close to the ground, affecting air quality.

The strength and duration of a temperature inversion is measured by an Air Quality Index (AQI). Stronger inversions will lead to higher pollution levels and a high AQI level.

Air Filtration and Thermal Inversions

Homes and business in geographic areas that experience thermal inversions may need different air filters during these times of year than during other times of the year. Depending on whether your home or business is near high traffic areas or a manufacturing plant, you may consider using air filters with a higher MERV rating. Also, air filters may need to be changed more often during thermal inversions.

Conclusion

It is important to be aware of the air quality of the area in which you live, especially to ensure that your indoor air quality does not suffer because of the changing AQI outside. Spokane Valley, Washington, is a typical example of an area that experiences frequent thermal inversions. While the air may seem clear and clean some of the year, during other parts of the year – during thermal inversions – air quality is poorer.

For this reason, it may be time to reconsider your air filtration needs this winter. Engineered Filtration Systems carries a full line of commercial air filters to suit nearly any commercial environment. For more information on air filter selection in your area, contact Engineered Filtration Systems, at 1-800-796-4337. Or, visit us on the web to learn more.

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