The popularity of the particle counter is expected to increase over the next five years, according to a recent Frost & Sullivan report, as investment in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology grows and the global adaptation of ISO standards continues to roll on. Here is a sampling of some of the latest particle counting offerings. For supplemental research on particle counters, go to CleanRooms' online Master Source Guide at www.cleanrooms.com
A handheld with downloads
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The HHPC-6 handheld airborne particle counter is designed to simultaneously display six channels of particle size distribution. It holds 500 samples (2,000 with Option EX) in data memory, and records date, time, counts, sample volume, temperature and relative humidity. Data can be downloaded to a computer or printer.
Met One Grants Pass, Ore. www.particle.com
Get simultaneous calculations
The APC (airborne particle counter) line of handheld instruments are designed to measure four particle size ranges at one time (0.3, 0.5, 1.0 and 5.0 µm). The units feature what the manufacturer says is a user-friendly control panel, programmable count and hold times, and two concentration modes. APC portable devices, which perform ISO 14644 and FS 209E calculations, measure six size ranges at one time (0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 1.0, 5.0 and 10.0 µm) at 1 cubic foot per minute flow rate (28.3 L/min). Software is included.
Biotest Diagnostic Corp. Denville, N.J. www.BiotestUSA.com
Laser-powered accuracy
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The LASAIR II-110 is billed as the first aerosol particle-counting monitor to use a thermally-chilled, solid-state diode laser to count 0.1-µm particles. The manufacturer says the technology is designed for maximum accuracy, reduced operating costs, reliability, and longevity. The monitor stores 3,000 samples, and offers data collection and recipe features that the company says will make for faster and easier cleanroom certification. You can control the particle counter from a Web browser as it samples the cleanroom, then downloads the data into Excel format. You can also dump the data directly into FacilityNet for advanced analyses and reports.
Particle Measuring Systems Boulder, Colo. www.pmeasuring.com
Works solo or with a team
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Designed with a large, color touch screen interface, the Solair 3100+ can store considerable particle count data for six particle size channels, as well as data from up to four environmental sensors. The Solair is designed to offer a sensitivity of 0.3 µm and a flow rate of 1 cubic foot per minute flow rate (28.3 L/min). The counter can be used as either a portable instrument or integrated into a larger facility monitoring/management system. All data can be downloaded to a computer or to the Solair's built-in thermal printer.
Lighthouse Worldwide Solutions Milpitas, Calif. www.golighthouse.com
Single particle accuracy
In contrast to ensemble devices, the AccuSizer 780/SPOS is designed to provide true particle size distribution (PSD) by quickly sizing and counting large numbers of particles, one at a time. The manufacturer says AccuSizer 780 yields PSDs with high resolution and accuracy, is compatible with any liquid or gas, and is highly-resistant to clogging.
Particle Sizing Systems Santa Barbara, Calif. www.pssnicomp.com
Simple accuracy
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The CI-20 Compact Particle Counter, according to its manufacturer, is simple enough to be used by those new to monitoring airborne particles yet accurate and compact enough for advanced users looking for a unit with counts that match Climet's CI-500 and/or CI-550. At 3.2 pounds, this stainless steel 0.1 CFM counter is available in two versions: 0.5 and 5-µm, or 0.3 and 0.5-µm. The CI-20's battery provides more than six hours of continuous use on a single charge.
CLiMET Instruments Redlands, CA www.climet.com