| High-efficiency filter grades | Products are commonly specified by a filter class such as H13 or H14, where applicable. | EN 1822 and ISO 29463 classify high-efficiency filters using efficiency at the most penetrating particle size (MPPS). | The stated class should be verified against the test method and edition specified in the product documentation. |
| H13 performance reference | Under EN 1822, H13 corresponds to an overall efficiency of at least 99.95% at MPPS. | EN 1822 classification and testing requirements. | This is a classification threshold, not a guarantee for every filter marketed as “HEPA”; check the applicable test report. |
| H14 performance reference | Under EN 1822, H14 corresponds to an overall efficiency of at least 99.995% at MPPS. | EN 1822 classification and testing requirements. | Higher efficiency can increase airflow resistance; selection should account for the system’s fan and pressure-drop limits. |
| Filter media | Fine-fiber media, including glass-fiber and certain synthetic-fiber constructions, are used in high-efficiency filtration products. | Media choice is a product-design characteristic; efficiency and pressure drop require testing on the finished filter. | Media, pleat geometry, separators, and seal design all affect filter performance. |
| Filter construction | Common configurations include pleated panels, compact or mini-pleat filters, and deep-pleat filters. | Construction and dimensions are product-specific; there is no single configuration required for all HEPA filters. | Frame materials and gasket or gel-seal arrangements are selected to suit the housing and installation conditions. |
| Leakage and integrity testing | Individual high-efficiency filters may be scanned for local leaks as part of classification or quality-control testing. | EN 1822 and ISO 29463 include methods for testing high-efficiency filter performance and integrity. | Ask whether the supplied report covers the finished filter and which test aerosol, method, and acceptance criteria were used. |
| Product specification | Key specification fields commonly include rated airflow, initial pressure drop, dimensions, efficiency class, and operating limits. | Values should be stated with their test conditions and the referenced standard. | Comparisons are meaningful only when airflow, dimensions, test conditions, and classification basis are comparable. |
| Cleanroom applications | High-efficiency filters are used in cleanroom air-handling systems and terminal filter units. | The required filter grade depends on the facility design and its contamination-control requirements. | Filter selection is part of a broader system design that includes airflow distribution, sealing, and maintenance. |
| Other application sectors | HEPA-grade filtration is also used in selected healthcare, laboratory, pharmaceutical, and industrial air-filtration systems. | The required grade and configuration are set by the application and system specification. | A filter’s classification alone does not establish suitability for every process or environment. |
| General ventilation context | Coarse and fine filters may be used upstream to capture larger particles and help protect downstream high-efficiency filters. | ISO 16890 is a classification standard for general-ventilation air filters; it is distinct from HEPA classification under EN 1822 or ISO 29463. | A staged filtration system can be designed to match the required air quality and operating conditions. |