As long as filters are assessed regularly and deemed effective, they do not have to be replaced. The maximum lifespan of HEPA filters we’ve heard of from our clients is around 8 years, which doesn’t mean it has reached its maximal life expectancy by then. There are companies that swear by replacing the HEPA filters every 3 years. Also, keep in mind that an increased load on the filter may result in higher energy demand as the ventilation system needs to work at an increased speed to compensate.c. In case of some cleanrooms, this extra burden may result in having to exchange HEPA filters on a yearly basis. The burden on the filter will also be greater in an ISO 8 cleanroom than in an ISO 5 environment. For instance, ISO 8 rooms do not require gowning rooms, hence are much dirtier than ISO 5 rooms, as they are the least clean in terms of cleanliness classification. Recommended replacement frequency of HEPA filters will greatly depend on how dirty your cleanroom is. The KleanLabs semi-active and dynamic clean room pass box models are also equipped with built-in HEPA filters HEPA filter replacement frequency best practices 1. Of course, if the filter doesn’t pass the test, it must be replaced. Leak tests are to be performed every six months in ISO 1-5 zones and every twelve months in ISO 6-9 environments. However, both GMP and ISO 14644-3 guidelines prescribe leak tests at least every 6-12 months.What is mentioned though is that according to GMP, the filter has to be free of leaks. Maximal lifespan of HEPA filters are not specified in GMP and ISO guidelines. If we experience a jump in operational costs in this case, HEPA filters are more likely to be worth replacing. Should the pressure drop get too high, the ventilation system will start working at an increased rate to maintain the prescribed air exchange rates, resulting in higher energy demands. One of those aspects is the load on the filter and the pressure drop. However, there are other relevant aspects that are worth considering when deciding on how often the filter should be replaced. Integrity of HEPA filters is essential to assure required cleanliness levels in a cleanroom. Those must be replaced regularly and protect the HEPA filters from clogging.Ĭleanliness class of the clean room may also affect the lifespan of the filter as ‘dirtier’ environments mean a heavier load on filters Why is HEPA filter replacement frequency such a key issue? To protect HEPA filters, preliminary filters are used: usually fine particulate air filters like F7 und F9 filters (EN779). These are more expensive as their efficiency and their medium resistance level is higher. On the other hand, filters that exceed the requirements of a HEPA air filter and capture more than 99.999% of particles are called ULPA filters or ultralow penetration air filters. These air filters do not meet filtration requirements to be considered a HEPA air filter. In Europe HEPA filters must remove 99.95% (ISO) of particles, in the US they must remove 99.97% of particles that have a size greater than or equal to 0.3 μm.įilters that capture ≥ 85% of particles, but less than 99.95% are called EPA filters or ‘efficient particulate air filters. HEPA stands for the ability to fulfill a strict set of requirements. What standards must HEPA filters comply with? HEPA filters are also the most important component of any air purifier. Filters containing an adsorbent or catalyst such as charcoal may remove odors and gaseous pollutants such as volatile organic compounds or ozone. articulate air filters are made of either plastic (PP + PET) or fiberglass and can capture viruses, bacteria, pollen, PM2.5, allergens and are also highly effective at capturing nanoparticles. What’s important about HEPA air filters is that they are incredibly effective at capturing particles of almost all sizes. These special air filters are called HEPA filters. In order to keep cleanrooms functioning at the required standards, special filters are in use. What are HEPA filters and what role do they play? In the following, we provide an overview on HEPA filters, HEPA filter testing and give some expert tips on HEPA filter replacement frequency. How often should HEPA filters be replaced in a clean room? Every clean room operator faces this question at some point and it quickly becomes an important issue while considering replacement and maintenance costs.
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