1.What is a DOP/PAO Test?
2.Why Poly Alpha Olefin (PAO) Used in HEPA filter integrity testing during HVAC Validation process?
3.Why PAO (Poly Alpha Olefin) replace DOP (Dioctyl
Phthalate)?
What is a DOP/PAO Test?
DOP/PAO testing is a very quick process that tests the
integrity of the HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter using DOP or PAO
solutions in their operational conditions.
These solutions generate a gas type smoke and then
generate gas particles that will be greater than .03 microns. The test will
certify the HEPA filter is fully functioning and there is no leakage or damage.
Meaning of DOP?
DOP (Di octyl Phthalate) is a dispersed aerosol used to
test the integrity of HEPA filters.
Meaning of PAO?
PAO (Poly Alpha Olefin) is a non-carcinogen liquid which
is a most common replacement for DOP.
Any equipment that has a HEPA filter should be tested
every time the equipment is moved or going to be used on a new project (every
four weeks if on same project). For the best results testing should be done
on-site to ensure that the units have not been damaged due to transportation or
daily activities at the work site.
Also rough handling of the equipment can cause the filter
seals to become loose from around the HEPA filter therefore causing leakage and
making them unsafe for workers who are counting on them while working in
hazardous conditions.
HEPA filters are composed of usually fiberglass fibers
randomly arranged. To qualify as HEPA the air filter must remove at least
99.97% of all airborne particles greater than 0.3 micrometers in diameter from
the air that passes through it.
DOP (Dioctyl Phthalate) aerosol is widely used as test particles of
collection efficiency of air filters. However, DOP is the material
listed in the endocrine disrupting chemicals and the confirmed carcinogens
cause of cancer to animals. The research on replacement materials of DOP has
been carried out for many years especially in microelectronics and atomic
energy industries, and the Japan Air Cleaning Association (JACA) published the
guideline of substituting materials of DOP in 2001, based on basic research and
successive experiments performed by JACA’s Committee. Their report
will be reviewed in this presentation.
The required properties for the replacement aerosol are
having the same performance for the fractional collection efficiency of air filters,
stable generation and safe for human health. The filters used in the
tests are ULPA, HEPA and quasi-HEPA filters in the size of
610mm*610mm*150mm. The test aerosols were DOP, PAO
(poly-alpha-olefin), colloidal silica, fumed silica and PSL (polystyrene
latex). The particle generation rate and the frequency distribution
were measured in the size range of 0.1-1.0μｍ. As
the test results of PAO aerosol in comparison with those of DOP aerosol, the
fractional collection efficiency well agreed with each other. PAO is
not involved in the list of endocrine disruptors and its aerosol indicates the
equal performance to the conventional DOP aerosol. With these
results, PAO is recommended as the replacement aerosol of DOP as the test particles
of filters.
Poly Alpha
Olefins (PAO)
Poly Alpha Olefins (PAOs) can be used as a base stock for a wide range
of engine and industrial lubricating oil products, both mineral oil and
synthetic based.
Features and Benefits
High viscosity index and excellent
lubricity
High flash point and low volatility
Outstanding low-temperature fluidity
for enhanced blend flexibility
Excellent oxidant resistance
Excellent shear stability and
hydrolysis
Compatible with mineral oils and esters
Extended drain and improved fuel
economy
Applications
Poly Alpha Olefins are engineered for use in a wide variety of applications in which the physical and performance properties of fully synthesized PAOs can be beneficial including:
Poly Alpha Olefins are engineered for use in a wide variety of applications in which the physical and performance properties of fully synthesized PAOs can be beneficial including:
Gear oils (Automotive & Industrial)
Greases
Compressor oils
Engine oils and transmission fluids
High VI Hydraulic Fluids
Other industrial oils
Shelf Life:
The shelf life of PAO oil aerosol reagent is ten (10) years in
the original, sealed and unopened container from date of shipment. The recommended shelf life of an open
container, tightly sealed between uses, is one (1) year from opening. PAO-4 should be stored in a dry, temperature
controlled environment between 15 and 30 °C while avoiding exposure to UV or
direct sunlight.
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