SOP For Installed Filter Leakage Test

PURPOSE:

This Filter Leakage Test is performed to confirm that the filter system is
properly installed and that leaks have not developed during use.

PRINCIPLE:

The tests are performed by introducing an aerosol challenge upstream of the

filters and scanning downstream of the filters and support frame or sampling
in a downstream duct.

APPARATUS:

 Aerosol Photometer

TEST CONDITIONS AND PROCEDURE:

1. Ensure that the filter system under test has unobstructed access for
observation and testing.
2. Check that the filter has no visible damage.
3. Check that the filter is provided with a sampling point and the
accessibility to the upstream of the filter is available for testing.
4. Switch ON the AHU at least 30 minutes prior to testing.
5. An artificially generated polydisperse or atmospheric aerosol should be
introduced into the upstream airflow to achieve the natural upstream
aerosol to reach the required homogeneous challenge concentration.
6. Connect a tube from upstream port, of the filter under test, to the
“upstream sample port” of the photometer in order to measure the
upstream aerosol concentration. 
 7. Heat the DOP / PAO in the aerosol generator upto 410 – 420 0C till the
aerosol starts generating. It will start getting sucked into the duct and
form an aerosol/air mixture upstream of filter. Continue generation of
aerosol till the upstream concentration reaches desired level.   
8. The concentration of the aerosol challenge upstream of the filter should
be between 10 mg/m3 and 100 mg/m3.
9. Set the photometer to read 100% concentration of challenge aerosol at
the upstream sampling point.

SAMPLING PROCEDURE:

Iso-kinetic Sampling:

1. Isokinetic Sampling is the sampling condition in which the mean

velocity of the air entering the sample probe inlet is the same as the
mean velocity of the unidirectional airflow at that location.

The sample probe inlet size should be calculated from consideration of the
sample flow rate of the measuring instrument and the filter exit airflow velocity
so that the probe inlet air velocity approximates to the filter exit airflow velocity
(i.e. Iso-kinetic Sampling)