Classification of air filters

ISO 16890
The ISO 16890 standard for filter testing and assessment replaced the previous EN 779 standard in mid-2018. Now, filter efficiencies will be determined with regard to the particulate classes PM1, PM2,5 and PM10, as well as coarse dust. The ISO 16890 standard is thus based on the same evaluation parameters used by the WHO and other environmental authorities.

EN 1822 and ISO 29463
In Europe, EPA, HEPA and ULPA filters are subject to classification according to EN 1822 for filtration efficiency and zero leakage. The international standard ISO 29463 is based on this European standard and has meanwhile replaced it in essential parts. Filter testing is based on high-precision particle counting methods.

ISO 29461-1 - for turbomachinery
With the revised test standard ISO 29461 Part 1 a new classification system for air filters in the intake filtration of turbomachinery comes into force. The target-group oriented T-classification system links the two existing test standards ISO 16890 and ISO 29463/EN 1822 via a consistent system of filter classes for static intake air filters.

EN 779:2012
The EN 779 standard "Particulate air filters for general ventilation" defined the test procedure for coarse and fine dust filters. The EN 779:2012 version valid from April 2012 until mid-2018 included the introduction of minimum efficiency levels for classes F7 to F9, and the renaming of classes F5 and F6 to M5 and M6. Since mid-2018, EN 779 has been completely replaced by the ISO 16890 standard in Europe.

Dust class according to DIN EN 60335-2-69 appendix AA
Filter media used in dust removal machines is tested according to the SBM dust class DIN EN 60335-2-69 appendix AA. The maximum degree of penetration decides whether a filter material is classified as an L, M or H class.
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ISO 16890 - Closer to reality
The new ISO 16890 enables the best filter solution

Towards a new classification of air filters for turbomachinery with the ISO 29461-1 standard

Test method for EPA / HEPA / ULPA filters
EN 1822 and ISO 29463

EN 779: 2012 Compact
The filter classification standard in overview