Evaluation of the performance of air filters used in building HVAC units

Abstract

Modern units are characterized by their design, diverse spaces, and various functions, which enable them to ensure adequate ventilation, air conditioning and air quality throughout the building. HVAC systems include the first stage of air purification, removing suspended particles. The key element of the HVAC unit is the multi-stage air filtration system, which consists of air filters. This article describes how to conduct periodic inspections of air filtration systems in the operating conditions of building HVAC units. The correct operation of a sample air filter was tested under operating conditions in the HVAC unit of a building in Warsaw. The measured airflow resistance was 60% of the limit value, and the air filter continued to remove aerosols with filtration efficiencies close to the manufacturer’s specifications (PM1: 65%, PM2.5: 70%, PM10: 90%). The test stand developed at CIOP-PIB provides an essential basis for determining the performance parameters of air filters in HVAC units.