What is EN ISO 16890:2019?

The European standard EN ISO 16890:2019 is a technical document that provides guidelines for the assessment of air filters used in general ventilation and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems. It replaced the older filter testing standard EN 779:2012, with the aim of improving the reliability and accuracy of filter performance evaluation.

1. Scope and Purpose

The first section of EN ISO 16890:2019 outlines the scope and purpose of the standard. It defines the terms and concepts used throughout the document, such as Minimum Efficiencies (ME), Particle Size Efficiency (PSE), and Coarse Dust Filter (CODI). The purpose of this standard is to provide a unified and transparent method to evaluate the filtration performance of air filters under various conditions.

2. Test Procedures

This section details the test procedures specified in EN ISO 16890:2019. It describes how to measure the particle size efficiency of filters, ranging from ePM1 (the most penetrating particle size) to ePM10 (particles larger than 10 micrometers). The standard also introduces a new interim category called ISO Coarse, which is designed for filters with lower efficiencies than required by ePM10 but still have potential benefits in certain applications.

3. Performance Classification

The final part of the EN ISO 16890:2019 standard is dedicated to performance classification. It divides filters into four groups based on their efficiency in removing various particle sizes, namely ePM1, ePM2.5, ePM10, and ISO Coarse. The classification system provides a clear reference for users to select appropriate filters for different indoor environments and pollution levels.