
A panel HEPA filter is a type of air purifier filter that's designed to capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns.
These filters are made up of a series of panels that contain a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) material. HEPA material is a type of fiberglass that's been treated with a chemical to give it a positive electrostatic charge.
This electrostatic charge attracts and traps particles, allowing the air to pass through the filter clean. The panels are usually arranged in a series of layers, with each layer capturing smaller and smaller particles.
The key feature of a panel HEPA filter is its ability to capture a wide range of particles, from dust and pollen to bacteria and viruses.
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ULPA and HEPA Filters
ULPA filters are designed to remove airborne particulates with exceptional efficiency, capturing particles as small as 0.1–0.2 micrometers in diameter with a minimum efficiency of 99.9995%. They are typically used in environments that demand stringent air purity, such as semiconductor manufacturing, pharmaceutical production, and high-grade cleanrooms.
ULPA filters are rated as U15 to U17 according to the EN1822 standard, with U15 filters capturing ≥ 99.9995% of particles ≥0.12 µm, U16 capturing ≥ 99.99995%, and U17 capturing ≥ 99.999995%.
In comparison, HEPA filters have an efficiency rating of 99.97% at 0.3µ, whereas ULPA media has an efficiency rating in excess of 99.999% at 0.12µ. This makes ULPA filters a better choice for applications where extremely high levels of air purity are required.
ULPA filters are available in various configurations, including cylindrical cartridge filters, conical filters, and panel filter configurations. They are constructed from layers of pleated filter media and carbon steel inner and outer cores for durability.
Here are the key differences between ULPA and HEPA filters:
ULPA filters are essential in environments where even the slightest airborne contamination can lead to significant product or process failure, such as cleanrooms, medical facilities, and laboratory environments.
Specifications
Panel HEPA filters are designed to provide high levels of air purification, with HEPA media rated at 0.3µ at 99.97% in gaseous flow. This makes them ideal for a variety of industrial and commercial applications.
The media is available in pleat depths ranging from 0.625″ to 6.0″, giving you flexibility in choosing the right size for your needs. You can also choose from a variety of endcap, seal, or frame options, including polyurethane or silicone molded seals and metal end caps.
Some panel HEPA filters are self-supporting, while others may require inner and outer cores made from perforated carbon steel, galvanized expanded steel, or stainless steel options. Flame retardant options are also available for added safety.
ULPA and ASHRAE Filter Replacements
ULPA and ASHRAE filters are designed to improve air quality and eliminate particulate matter like smoke, pollen, dust mites, and dander by trapping particles without much restriction to the airflow.
ULPA filters have an efficiency rating in excess of 99.999% at 0.12µ, making them ideal for clean-room applications and environments where air purity is non-negotiable.
These filters are available in various configurations, including cylindrical cartridge filters, conical filters, and panel filter configurations, and are typically constructed from layers of pleated filter media and carbon steel inner and outer cores for durability.
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ULPA filters capture particles as small as 0.1–0.2 micrometers in diameter with a minimum efficiency of 99.9995%, making them essential in environments where even the slightest airborne contamination can lead to significant product or process failure.
ULPA filters are rated as U15 to U17 according to the EN1822 standard, where:
ASHRAE filters, on the other hand, are designed to improve air quality and eliminate particulate matter, but have a lower efficiency rating compared to ULPA filters, typically removing up to 99.97% of particles at 0.3 microns.
ULPA filters are widely used in environments that demand stringent air purity, such as semiconductor manufacturing, pharmaceutical production, and high-grade cleanrooms, where the slightest airborne contamination can lead to significant product or process failure.
Specifications
HEPA media is rated at 0.3µ at 99.97% in gaseous flow and is available in pleat depths ranging from 0.625″ to 6.0″.
You can choose from various types of HEPA media, including ASHRAE, ULPA, spun-bond, PTFE-coated membrane, and micro glass.
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HEPA filters can be used with a pre-filter foam wrap to extend the life of the HEPA filter, and flame retardant options are available.
Polyurethane or silicone molded seals are available in addition to metal end caps for cartridge style HEPA filters. Aluminum, chipboard, and plastic are available for panel, V-bank, and box style filters.
HEPA media is self-supporting and can be surrounded by inner and outer cores made from perforated carbon steel, galvanized expanded steel, or stainless steel options. Some smaller filters use rigid paper or other metal solutions for media support.
Here are some standard sizes for H14 HEPA Panel Air Filters:
Mini Pleated Filter
The mini pleated filter is a type of HEPA filter that offers excellent air filtration performance. It's commonly used in critical applications like clean rooms, hospital operating theatres, and biological containment laboratories.
A mini pleated filter typically has a HEPA panel design, which uses hot melt as the separator instead of a traditional corrugated aluminum separator. This design allows for a smaller size and faster production lead time.
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The efficiency of a mini pleated filter is 99% to 99.9995% @ 0.3-micron particles. This excellent air filtration performance makes it a critical component in various industries.
The advantages of a mini pleated filter include its compact design and ability to provide more air volume. If the installation space allows, you can even increase the overall thickness of the filter, which can prolong its service life and reduce the frequency of replacement.
Here are some common thicknesses of mini pleated filters:
The frame design of a mini pleated filter can be made from aluminum alloy, stainless steel, or galvanized materials. The thickness of the built-in filter element can be adjusted to the overall thickness, from 25mm to 120mm.
Design and Features
The panel HEPA filter design offers a unique advantage in terms of space-saving, with a thickness between 50-100mm, making it ideal for installations with limited space.
The panel design also allows for a more compact frame, requiring only a thickness of 69mm to achieve the same air volume as traditional HEPA filter cassettes, which can be up to 150mm thick.
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The panel HEPA filter is available in various thicknesses, including 50, 69, 72, 80, 90, and 96mm, with the option to adjust the thickness of the built-in filter element from 25mm to 120mm.
Here are the available thicknesses and frame designs:
Increasing the overall thickness of the filter can provide more air volume, reduce resistance, and prolong the service life of the filter, making it a great option for installations with limited space constraints.
Mini Pleated Design
The mini pleated design is a game-changer in the world of air filtration. It offers a smaller size and compact design compared to traditional HEPA filters.
The panel design of mini pleated filters is revolutionary, with a thickness between 50-100mm, making it perfect for places with limited installation space.
This design also reduces the minimum thickness required for air purification equipment, such as clean benches and biological safety cabinets, from 150mm to just 69mm.
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You can choose from various thicknesses, including 50, 69, 72, 80, 90, and 96mm, and even adjust the thickness of the built-in filter element from 25mm to 120mm.
Here are the available thicknesses and frame designs:
Increasing the thickness of the filter offers several benefits, including providing more air volume, reducing resistance, and prolonging the service life of the filter.
ULPA Key Features
ULPA filters are designed to remove airborne particulates with exceptional efficiency, capturing particles as small as 0.1–0.2 micrometers in diameter with a minimum efficiency of 99.9995%. This is a significant improvement over HEPA filters, which have an efficiency of 99.97% at 0.3 microns.
One of the key features of ULPA filters is their ability to capture particles with a diameter of 0.12 micrometers or larger, with an efficiency of 99.9995%. This makes them ideal for environments that require ultra-clean air, such as semiconductor manufacturing and pharmaceutical production.
ULPA filters are available in different classes, including U15, U16, and U17, each with a different level of filtration efficiency. Here's a breakdown of the different classes:
ULPA filters are also known for their durability and resistance to damage, with a high level of mechanical strength that makes them resistant to leaking or failure. This is due to their construction from layers of pleated filter media and carbon steel inner and outer cores.
Applications and Uses
Panel HEPA filters are used in scenarios where final air quality is essential, serving as a final or terminal filter.
They're commonly found in Cleanroom and Operating Theatre Ceiling Terminal Housings, ensuring a non-turbulent and laminar air flow.
Panel Style HEPA Filters are also used in Laminar Flow Cabinets / Workstations and Safety Cabinets.
These filters are a must-have in industries where air quality is crucial, such as healthcare and research.
In the food and beverage industry, Panel HEPA filters help maintain a clean environment.
Electronic and nuclear industries also rely on Panel HEPA filters for their precise air quality needs.
Pharmaceutical companies use these filters to ensure a high level of air purity.
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Description and Details
The HEPA filtration medium is formed from non-flammable and water-repellent microfine glass fibers.
These fibers are formed into a paper-like surface, providing a unique filtering mechanism.
The HEPA filter medium is formed into a rigid pack of close mini pleats that are then secured and spaced using "beaded hotmelt".
This design ensures a sustained clear air path through the filter.
A continuous neoprene closed-cell gasket is applied to one face of the filter as standard, or both faces on request.
Each filter is individually tested to EN1822 and comes with a test certificate.
Technical Information
The technical details of a panel HEPA filter are essential to understand its performance and maintenance.
Max operating temperature is 70°C, which means you should keep it away from direct heat sources.
Standard HEPA panel depths range from 66mm to 124mm, depending on the specific model.
You can choose from different sealant options, including Gasket Seal, Gel Seal, and Knife Edge.
Related Products
If you're looking for ways to upgrade or complement your panel HEPA filter, there are several related products to consider.
The HEPA Panel Filter, Wedge HEPA Filter, and Cassette Filters all share the same certification, from E10 to H14 to EN1822, ensuring a high level of air quality and filtration efficiency.
These filters are designed to work together seamlessly, making them a great option for those looking for a cohesive system.
A Laminar Flow Cabinet is a great addition to any workspace or laboratory setting, providing a clean and controlled environment for working with sensitive materials.
For larger spaces or industrial settings, an Air Pressurisation Unit can be a game-changer, providing a reliable and efficient way to maintain a consistent air pressure.
In some cases, a Tractor Filters or HEPA Supply Air system may be necessary to ensure a continuous flow of clean air, especially in areas with high air demands.
A Fan Unit can also be a useful addition, providing a reliable and quiet way to circulate air and maintain a consistent airflow.
Media and Options
Microglass media has been around for over 75 years, but its fragility is a concern, especially in applications where damage is a risk. Available in various grades, including E10-U17, it's compatible with Discrete Particle Counters (DPC) testing and photometric test methods.
The AstroCel II product uses microglass media and is a reliable option for many applications. However, it's essential to consider the potential risks associated with glass fiber media.
Membrane media technologies, on the other hand, have seen significant innovation over the past 30 years. Daikin Industries' ultrafine fiber ePTFE membrane media was a game-changer in the microelectronics industry, providing improved durability and energy efficiency.
ePTFE media is now a standard for the microelectronic and tool market, available in grades from H13 to U17, and is compatible with DPC testing. The MEGAcel II ME product uses ePTFE media and is a popular choice for many applications.
The latest innovation in membrane media is the expanded Fluororesin Membrane (eFRM), designed for high particulate loading and oil-based test aerosols. It's available in grades from H13 to H14 and is compatible with photometric test methods.
The MEGAcel II product uses eFRM media and is a great option for applications that require high performance and durability.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the negatives of HEPA filters?
HEPA filters have limitations in removing tiny particles, such as viruses, some bacteria, and VOCs, which can still be present in the air. This means they may not provide complete protection against all airborne pollutants.
What does a panel air filter do?
Panel air filters remove dust and debris from the air, ensuring cleaner air circulation through a building's ductwork system
Why are HEPA filters rarely used in homes?
HEPA filters are rarely used in homes because they significantly restrict airflow, requiring more powerful systems and additional fans to function properly. This limitation makes them less practical for residential HVAC systems.
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