Radical change

From July 1st, ISO 16890 will be the sole internationally applicable standard for the classification of air filters. It will definitively replace the previous industrial standard EN 779, which was valid in parallel for 18 months. This marks a radical change in the evaluation of air filters.

Since January 2017, the new standard has provided greater transparency and practical relevance. The filtration efficiencies of filters are determined based on four dust classes, realistically representing a broad particle spectrum; the assessment sizes correspond to those of the World Health Organization (WHO) and environmental authorities. The previous measurement method according to EN 779 focused on a single particle size and neglected a large portion of hazardous fine dust particles. Laboratory values did not reflect actual filter performance.

“The filter testing now considers the actual particle sizes present in the air and specifies their filtration efficiencies with an accuracy of five percent. This enables users to select the best filters for their individual requirements,” explains Dr. Thomas Caesar. The head of filter technology at Freudenberg Filtration Technologies actively contributed to the development of ISO 16890.

Lower operating costs, greater purity, and hygiene

Air filtration solutions according to ISO 16890 ensure operational safety and reduce costs. For example, they guarantee the consistent performance of gas turbines and compressors, prevent paint damage in surface technology, or ensure purity and hygiene in the production of food and beverages. Using the e.FFECT software, Freudenberg Filtration Technologies calculates the most efficient filter solution for each application. ISO 16890 also considers the actual fine dust load at the deployment site.

Freudenberg experts answer questions about the new standard via the email hotline ISO16890@freudenberg-filter.com. On the company's website (link), interested parties can find background information and details. The downloadable information brochure contains the latest recommendations based on EUROVENT 4/23 (2017).

All Viledon® air filters are available to interested parties both on the website in the e-catalog (link) and in the Viledon® product catalog, which lists the filter classes according to the new ISO 16890 standard.