High-efficiency air filters are critical in industries such as pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and cleanrooms. To ensure their performance, the most widely used standard in Europe is W 1822.
This article explains EN 1822 in a clear and practical way, including its classification system, metody testowania, and real-world applications.
1. What Is EN 1822?
W 1822 is a European standard used to evaluate the performance of HEPA and ULPA filters.
It focuses on:
- Filtration efficiency
- Leak detection
- Most Penetrating Particle Size (MPPS)
👉 The goal is to ensure filters meet strict requirements for high-cleanliness environments.
2. W 1822 Classification System
W 1822 classifies filters based on their efficiency at MPPS:
| Class | Efficiency |
|---|---|
| E10 | ≥ 85% |
| E11 | ≥ 95% |
| E12 | ≥ 99.5% |
| H13 | ≥ 99.95% |
| H14 | ≥ 99.995% |
| U15–U17 | ≥ 99.9995% and above |
👉 HEPA filters typically fall into H13–H14 classes
👉 ULPA filters go beyond H14
3. Key Concept: MPPS
The Most Penetrating Particle Size (MPPS) is the particle size that is hardest to capture.
- Typically around 0.1–0.3 μm
- Efficiency is lowest at this size
👉 EN 1822 evaluates filters at MPPS to ensure worst-case performance
4. W 1822 Testing Process
The EN 1822 standard includes several test steps:
Step 1: Determination of MPPS
- Measure efficiency across particle sizes
- Identify the weakest filtration point
Step 2: Overall Efficiency Test
- Evaluate filter efficiency at MPPS
Step 3: Leak Test (Test skanowania)
This is the most critical step.
- The filter surface is scanned
- Local leaks are detected
- Ensures no weak points
👉 Even if overall efficiency is high, a local leak can cause failure
5. Why Leak Testing Is Critical
Unlike general ventilation filters, HEPA filters must:
✔ Provide uniform performance
✔ Have no local defects
✔ Meet strict cleanroom requirements
👉 A single leak can compromise the entire system
6. W 1822 vs Other Standards
Compared to ISO 16890:
- W 1822 → High-efficiency filters (HEPA/ULPA)
- ISO 16890 → General ventilation filters
👉 EN 1822 is much stricter and more detailed
7. Applications of EN 1822 Filters
EN 1822-tested filters are widely used in:
- Pharmaceutical cleanrooms
- Semiconductor manufacturing
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Aerospace and precision industries
👉 These applications require extremely clean air
8. Challenges in EN 1822 Testing
In practice, testing HEPA filters can be challenging:
- Detecting very small leaks
- Maintaining stable aerosol concentration
- Ensuring scanning accuracy
- Avoiding false results
👉 These challenges require specialized testing equipment
9. Recommended Testing Solution
For accurate EN 1822 testowanie, especially leak detection, professional equipment is essential.
The SC-L8023 Scanning Filter Tester from SCPUR is designed specifically for HEPA/ULPA filter testing.
Key Advantages
- High-sensitivity leak detection
- Precise scanning system
- Stable aerosol generation
- Reliable and repeatable results
👉 Ensures compliance with EN 1822 requirements
10. Conclusion
W 1822 is a critical standard for evaluating HEPA and ULPA filters, ensuring both:
✔ High overall efficiency
✔ Zero local leakage
Understanding this standard is essential for manufacturers and users in high-cleanliness industries.
