Palas PMFT 1000 User manual

Filter Media Test Rig
PMFT 1000 / PMFT 1000 M
Operating Manual
For specialized users
6924-en_V1.5_03/21 V1.5

Copyright
For all information in this technical document as well as drawings and technical descriptions provided by us,
Palas GmbH reserves all proprietary and intellectual property rights. Duplication or dissemination to third
parties without our prior written consent is prohibited.
Technical changes reserved.

Table of contents
6924-en_V1.5_03/21 3
Table of contents
1 About this manual 5
1.1 Function of the manual 5
1.2 Target group for the manual 5
1.3 Validity of the manual 5
1.4 Related documents 5
1.5 Storage of documents 5
1.6 Presentation rules 6
2 For your safety 7
2.1 Hazards and safety instructions 7
2.2 Warnings 9
2.3 Regulations 10
2.4 Obligations of the user 10
3 Product description 11
3.1 Main components of PMFT 1000 test rig 11
3.2 Main components of PMFT 1000 M test rig 11
3.3 Holder for filter media and respiratory masks 13
3.3.1 Adapter for respiratory masks 13
3.3.2 Universal filter adapter 14
3.3.3 Support grid as surface for flat filter media 14
3.4 Use 14
3.4.1 Intended use 15
3.4.2 Improper use 16
3.5 Functional description 17
3.6 Environmental conditions 18
3.7 Scope of delivery 19
3.8 Optional accessories 20
3.9 Conformity 20
3.10 Dimensions 20
3.11 Minimum clearance 21
4 Initial commissioning 22
4.1 Connecting test rig 22
4.1.1 Back panel of test rig 22
4.1.2 Connection diagram for PMFT 1000 23
4.1.3 PMFT 1000 – Connections for individual components 25
4.1.4 Connection diagram for PMFT 1000 M 28
4.1.5 PMFT 1000 M – Connections for individual components 30
4.1.6 Attaching and connecting desktop PC with touch screen 35
4.1.7 Connecting discharge system CD2000 (option) 38
4.2 Setting Up Test Rig 38
4.3 Emergency-off button 38
5 Operating and display elements 39
5.1 Emergency-off button 40
6 Operation and settings 42
6.1 Switching on test rig 42
6.2 Notes on operation of aerosol sensors 44
6.3 Opening and closing filter holder 45
6.3.1 Opening filter holder – narrow gap 45
6.3.2 Opening filter holder all the way 45
6.3.3 Closing filter holder 46
6.4 Software PMFT1000 47
6.4.1 Script menu 48
6.4.2 Test bench menu 50

Table of contents
46924-en_V1.5_03/21
6.4.3 Measurement menu 51
6.4.4 Special menu 52
6.4.5 Result menu 56
6.5 Efficiency test based on EN 13274-7 58
6.6 Breath resistance test based on EN149 59
6.7 Valve function test of respiratory masks based on EN149 61
6.8 Operation with discharge system – upgrade kit 7037 62
6.9 Operation with aerosol generator AGK 2000 – upgrade kit 7086
64
6.10 Script files 66
6.10.1 Storage location of script files 66
6.10.2 Structure of script files 68
6.10.3 Command lines – explanation of commands 70
6.10.4 Sample script with explanations 79
6.11 Log files with measured data 81
6.11.1 List of Parameters 81
6.12 Establishing remote connection to aerosol spectrometer 85
6.13 Closing Software and Switching Off Devices 87
6.14 What to do when… 89
7 Maintenance 90
7.1 Dilution system VKL 100 – cleaning suction nozzle 91
7.2 Calibrating aerosol sensor 93
7.2.1 Preparations for calibration 95
7.2.2 Calibrating particle size 98
7.2.3 Calibrating particle velocity 100
7.3 Maintenance unit for compressed air 102
7.4 Checking differential pressure 105
7.5 Determining the factor for mass concentration 107
8 Errors 116
9 Decommissioning 117
10 Packaging and transportation 118
10.1 Preparing the device 118
10.2 Packaging and transportation 118
10.3 Notes on transport 118
11 Declaration of conformity 119
12 Technical specifications 120

1About this manual
6924-en_V1.5_03/21 5
1 About this manual
1.1 Function of the manual
This manual provides information on the PMFT1000 test rig system for
respiratory masks.
It includes information on:
• Safety
• Functionality
• Use
• Operation
• Maintenance
1.2 Target group for the manual
This manual is intended for specialized users who are familiar with
activities in the field of particle measuring technology based on their
technical education or experience.
1.3 Validity of the manual
This manual is valid for the following models of test rigs:
•PMFT 1000
•PMFT 1000 M
1.4 Related documents
The operating instructions for the following devices are essential
components of the system PMFT1000:
• Aerosol generator for liquids PLG 1000
• Aerosol spectrometer Promo1000
• Dilution system VKL 100
The operating instructions for the following devices are essential
components of the system PMFT1000M:
• Aerosol generator for liquids PLG 1000
• Aerosol spectrometer Promo LED 2300
1.5 Storage of documents
The storage of documents is the responsibility of the owner and/or user to
ensure the documents are available when they are needed. Store the
documents together with the device.

1About this manual
66924-en_V1.5_03/21
1.6 Presentation rules
The following presentations are used in this manual:
Text Product names and product descriptions
Example: Fidas
Cross-references to other documents
Example: Information about … is found in the manual for
the …
Text Menu items
Example: Shut Down System
Selection and settings
Example: Start measuring with Record
Text > Text Menu paths. The sequence of the menus is indicated by
the “>” character.
Example: Menu > Check for Updates
“Text” Word compositions and figurative language
Example: “Measuring Unit”
[▷32] Reference to page number
Example: For further information, see the section
“Technical data [▷12]”

2For your safety
6924-en_V1.5_03/21 7
2 For your safety
2.1 Hazards and safety instructions
Qualified person 1. Only a properly qualified person may perform installation,
commissioning and any other work on the device.
2. Follow the generally accepted codes of practice when installing the
device.
Preventive measures to
avoid stumbling and
falling hazards
Cables and lines that are not laid properly near the test rig can pose a
hazard. There is a risk of stumbling and falling.
4Ensure that cables, hoses and pipes are positioned properly.
Electric shock Mains voltage is applied to the electrical connections. This can lead to
electric shock.
1. Work on the electrical installation may only be performed by
specialized personnel.
2. Work on the electrical components may only be performed by
specialized personnel.
3. Ensure that live components do not get wet.
4. Observe the applicable regulations.
Operate only
undamaged equipment
1. After unpacking the device, check that all components are in pristine
shape and are not damaged in any way.
2. To ensure safety, never operate damaged components. Consult the
manufacturer.
Safe operation of the
device
1. Operate the device only when it is connected to an electrical outlet with
residual current circuit breaker.
2. Only operate the device with the insulation and/or casing fully installed.
3. Make sure that the housing and/or the casing on the device is
undamaged, complete, and correctly installed.
Safe use of the device 1. Do not use the device in a flammable or explosive environment, e.g.
rich in hydrogen or oxygen.
2. Do not use the device with flammable or explosive carrier gases, e.g.
rich in hydrogen or oxygen.
Aerosols Aerosols can be inhaled and may be hazardous to human health.
1. Prevent the produced aerosol from being released into the
environment.
2. Avoid coming into direct contact with the produced aerosol.
3. Wear suitable personal protective equipment when appropriate.

2For your safety
86924-en_V1.5_03/21
Compliance with work
regulations
4Comply with the accident prevention regulations issued by the
employers’ liability insurance association as well as with local and
national work regulations.
Risk of crushing Moving components can cause crushing.
4Never work on moving components when they are in operation.
Operation only by
trained personnel
4Allow only properly trained and instructed persons to operate the test
rig.
Test rig operation only
under supervision
The test rig is not designed to be operated without supervision.
4Operate the test rig only under supervision.
Operation by only one
person
To prevent the operator’s extremities from being crushed, the pneumatic
filter holder has to be closed with the aid of the two-hand control.
4Always operate the device alone to prevent another person from being
injured.
Repairs 1. Do not attempt to repair any components that serve a safety function.
2. Use only original Palas parts when replacing components.
Safety instructions on
device
1. Never remove or cover the safety stickers on the device. The stickers
have to remain legible for the entire service life of the device.
2. If they become damaged or illegible, replace the safety stickers
immediately.

2For your safety
6924-en_V1.5_03/21 9
2.2 Warnings
The warnings in this manual are highlighted with pictographs and signal
words. The severity of a hazard is indicated by the pictograph and signal
word.
Layout of the warnings
The warnings that precede each action are shown as follows:
DANGER
Type and source of the hazard
Explanation of type and source of the hazard / description of
consequences of failure to comply with the warning.
4Measures to avert the hazard
Meaning of the signal words
DANGER Immediate danger to life or risk of severe physical
injury if this hazard is not avoided.
WARNING Possible risk of severe physical injury if this hazard is
not avoided.
CAUTION Possible risk of minor physical injury if this hazard is
not avoided.
NOTICE Damage to property if this hazard is not avoided.
Meaning of the pictographs
DANGER
Warnings with information about the severity of the hazard
DANGER
Danger to life due to electric shock
NOTICE
Damage to property

2For your safety
10 6924-en_V1.5_03/21
2.3 Regulations
Observe the following regulations and directives:
Statutory regulations • Legal regulations for accident prevention
• Legal regulations for environmental protection
• Employer's Liability Insurance Association provisions
Standards and directives • The applicable safety requirements according to DIN, EN, and VDE
2.4 Obligations of the user
To ensure proper functioning of the device, observe the following:
1. Carefully read through the manual before using the device.
2. Keep the manuals in the vicinity of the device to ensure that
information can be checked at all times.
3. Only carry out activities described in the manual intended for your use.
4. Make sure that the required inspections and maintenance tasks are
carried out.
5. Have the device serviced by the manufacturer or an authorized
distributor.
6. Have damage to the device repaired promptly by the manufacturer.

3Product description
6924-en_V1.5_03/21 11
3 Product description
3.1 Main components of PMFT 1000 test rig
1
3
4
5
10
8
72
6
9
Main components of PMFT 1000 test rig
1 Desktop PC and touch screen 2 Emergency-off button
3 Operating elements for filter
holder
4 Aerosol spectrometer
Promo1000
5 Aerosol sensor welas1200 6 Dilution system VKL 100
7 Main switch 8 Filter channel with
pneumatically operated filter
holder
9 Retention time tube 10 Aerosol generator PLG1000
(2 generators)

3Product description
12 6924-en_V1.5_03/21
3.2 Main components of PMFT 1000 M test rig
1
2
3
4
5
8
6
7
Main components of PMFT 1000 M test rig
1 Desktop PC and touch screen 2 Emergency-off button
3 Operating elements for filter
holder
4 Dilution system VKL 27
5 Aerosol spectrometer Promo
LED 2300
6 Filter channel with
pneumatically operated filter
holder
7 Retention time tube 8 Aerosol generator PLG1000
(2 generators)

3Product description
6924-en_V1.5_03/21 13
3.3 Holder for filter media and respiratory
masks
3.3.1 Adapter for respiratory masks
An adapter consisting of two rings is needed to test convex-shaped
respiratory masks.
1
3
4
1
2
2
4
3
Adapter for respiratory masks in two different position:
Top: position 1, bottom: position 2
1 Filter holder 2 Respiratory mask
3 Narrow adapter ring 4 Wide adapter ring
Position 1: The exterior (curvature) of the respiratory mask faces down for
the measuring mode “Exhale.”
Position 2: The exterior (curvature) of the respiratory mask faces up for the
measuring mode “Inhale.”

3Product description
14 6924-en_V1.5_03/21
3.3.2 Universal filter adapter
Specially shaped respiratory masks and filters can be placed on the
universal filter adapter. The filter holder immobilizes the filter medium during
measurement.
Universal filter adapter in filter channel
3.3.3 Support grid as surface for flat filter media
Flat filter media can be placed directly on the support grid. The filter holder
immobilizes the filter medium during measurement.
1
2
Support grid in filter channel
1 Filter holder 2 Support grid

3Product description
6924-en_V1.5_03/21 15
3.4 Use
3.4.1 Intended use
The device is manufactured and tested according to good engineering
practices and the recognized safety rules. In order to avoid hazards to
yourself or third parties and damage to the device and other assets, only use
the device properly and as intended.
The filter media test rig is intended to be used only for pressure-tight,
leakage-free testing of convex and flat, air-permeable filter media. The
differential pressure at the clamped-in filter medium may not exceed
5000Pa.
Testing determines the following characteristic values related to the filter:
• Efficiency grade and fractional efficiency grade when collecting particles
on the filter at a defined air volume flow rate
• Differential pressure of filter medium at a defined air volume flow rate
• Functioning of valve on FFP masks
The device is intended for use indoors.
The device is intended to be used only by the following persons:
• Persons who are familiar with activities in the field of particle measuring
technology based on their education or experience.
Any use other than the intended use is prohibited. The manufacturer
assumes no liability for damages resulting from this. All warranty claims are
voided if changes are made to the device, including in the course of
assembly and installation.
All corresponding documentation must be observed for any work on the
device.

3Product description
16 6924-en_V1.5_03/21
3.4.2 Improper use
The device is not intended for use by the following persons:
• Persons with limited physical, sensory or mental abilities
• Persons lacking the required qualification, experience or knowledge
• Persons under 18 years of age
The device is not intended to be used to test non-permeable filter media.
The manufacturer supplies adapters and media holders to secure filter
media. Using components or devices not approved by the manufacturer to
secure filter media is prohibited.
Using liquids not approved by the manufacturer to generate aerosol is
prohibited.
The manufacturer or supplier will not be liable for damage resulting from
improper use.

3Product description
6924-en_V1.5_03/21 17
3.5 Functional description
The PMFT 1000 / PMFT 1000 P is a modularly designed filter testing system
for respiratory masks.
The test rig works in pressure mode.
Aerosol generators
The aerosol is created by two aerosol generators. The aerosol generators
are triggered by a solenoid valve and switched accordingly. The hose
connection of the respective generator to to the filter holder must be
manually modified before changing the type of aerosol.
Salts (e.g. NaCL, KCl) and liquid aerosols (e.g. DEHS) can be dispersed.
Recommended concentration for saline aerosols: 5%.
Particle measuring technology
The test rig has an aerosol sampling unit on the clean gas side. An aerosol
spectrometer with aerosol sensor is used to measure the particles.
The particle size and concentration are measured with and without the test
filter to determine the fractional efficiency grade.
Volume flow control
The test rig has two flow controllers (mass flow controllers):
• Mass flow controller 1 to control the main volume flow
• Mass flow controller 2 to control the generator volume flow
Recording sensor data
The test rig has a sensor that measures differential pressure. The values
measured at the filter are automatically recorded during filter testing.
Sensors to measure temperature and relative humidity are available as
options.

3Product description
18 6924-en_V1.5_03/21
Testing procedure
There are two ways to place respiratory masks in the filter holder:
• With the exterior (curvature) facing up: simulates inhalation.
• With the exterior (curvature) facing down: simulates exhalation.
The software contains the following testing routines:
• Efficiency testing with a saline aerosol
• Efficiency testing with an oil aerosol
• Breath resistance testing without aerosol
• Testing of valve on FFP masks without aerosol
Unusually shaped respiratory masks can be placed on the included universal
filter adapter and tested there.
Flat filter media can be placed on an included support grid and tested there.
3.6 Environmental conditions
Environmental conditions affect the functionality of the device.
Operation
The following environmental conditions apply for the operation of the device:
• Temperature range: +19°C to +23°C
• Relative humidity: non-condensing, meaning that moisture in the air is
not permitted to condense as water on or in the device
• Air pressure: atmospheric pressure
Storage and transport
The following environmental conditions apply for the storage and transport of
the device:
• Temperature range: 0°C to +40°C
Operation and storage under other environmental conditions, for instance in
corrosive or explosive environments, powerful electrical or electromagnetic
fields, areas with ionizing radiation or areas subject to shocks and vibrations
are prohibited.

3Product description
6924-en_V1.5_03/21 19
3.7 Scope of delivery
Inspect the delivered equipment for damage and completeness.
Depending on the model, delivery includes the following:
Model PMFT 1000
• Test rig with filter holder
• Desktop PC and touch screen with control software
• 2 aerosol generators PLG 1000
• Aerosol spectrometer Promo1000
• Aerosol sensor welas 1200 + cleaning kit
• Dilution system VKL 100
Model PMFT 1000 M
• Test rig with filter holder
• Desktop PC and touch screen with control software
• 2 aerosol generators PLG 1000
• Aerosol spectrometer Promo LED 2300
• Dilution system VKL 27
Connecting elements / accessories
• Sampling tube
• Retention time tube
• Power cable
• USB cable
• Adapter for respiratory masks (quick holder)
• Support grid (for flat filter media and special shapes of respiratory
masks), art. no. 1360
• Universal filter adapter for specially shaped respiratory masks, art. no.
7159
• Pressure measuring plate (with 12 holes) for measurement of differential
pressure
• Calibration dust MonoDust 1500
• Calibration hose
• Operating instructions
• Test rig calibration certificate

3Product description
20 6924-en_V1.5_03/21
3.8 Optional accessories
The following optional accessories are available for purchase:
• Set: isokinetic sampling probes
• Testing head “Mas-Q-Head” (only for PMFT1000M)
• Label printer ZEBRA ZD410
• Upgrade kit 7037 for testing based on the standards 42CFR84 and
GB2626
(discharge system CD2000 + temperature and moisture sensors)
• Upgrade kit 7086 for testing based on the standard ASTMF2299-3
(aerosol generator AGK2000)
3.9 Conformity
As the manufacturer, we hereby declare that this product meets the
fundamental directives for bringing it to market in the EU.