Filtration

Air filtration supplies the means to obtain the level of particulate cleanliness required by any definition of “air conditioning.” It extends from the simple task of preventing lint and other debris from plugging heating/cooling coils to removing particles as small as 0.1 micron which could cause a short circuit on a microchip.

In addition to the reasons given above, air filters are used for a wide variety of purposes, some of which include:

• Protecting the general well‐being of the occupants of a space
• Protecting the decor of occupied spaces by removing the staining portion of airborne dust
• Reducing maintenance of building interiors by reducing the frequency of washing such items as Venetian blinds and fluorescent bulbs
• Protecting the contents of occupied spaces including paintings, tapestries, and other items of historic or cultural value
• Elimination of fire hazards by removing lint and other materials which might accumulate in ductwork
• Extension of shelf life of perishable dairy products by removing airborne mold during processing operations
• Removing airborne bacteria from operating room air to help prevent postoperative infection.

This ASHRAE Standard 52.2 User Guide was created by the National Air Filtration Association NAFA. This Guide, and the application of a particle-based contaminant removal standard prescribed by ASHRAE Standard 52.2, are intended to assist end-users and specifiers in their selection of appropriate air filtration products. NAFA suggests the integrated use of standards 52.1 and 52.2 to indicate anticipated performance throughout the useful life of the filter.