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Understanding ISO 16890: The Comprehensive Standard for Air Filter Performance

ISO 16890 is the international standard for air filter testing and classification, offering a modern and comprehensive approach to evaluating air filter performance. This standard alters the way air filters are assessed by focusing on their efficiency in capturing particulate matter (PM) of different sizes: PM1, PM2.5, and PM10.

What is ISO 16890?

ISO 16890 categorizes air filters based on their ability to capture particles of various sizes, providing a more accurate representation of real-world performance. This standard replaced the older EN 779 standard in Europe, aligning air filter ratings with the actual air quality needs of different environments.

What does ISO 16890 mean for AS 1324?

In Australia, ISO 16890 will supersede AS 1324, the existing Australian Standard for Air Filtration products that we have relied on for more than 30 years. The applications of AS 1324, at the time of publishing, are still far more diverse than ISO 16890 and in many instances, Australia may opt to use both standards as has been the case in the UK and much of Europe.

Real-World Relevance: By focusing on particulate matter sizes that are significant for human health and environmental quality, ISO 16890 aims to provide a link towards a real-world benefit for Air Filters. The current version of ISO 16890 however fails in this instance as the testing methods themselves are specifically designed as a laboratory test method, with the standard itself recognizing that the results may not be representative of real-world performance.

Key Benefits of ISO 16890

Comprehensive Evaluation: ISO 16890 evaluates filters based on their efficiency in capturing PM1, PM2.5, and PM10 particles, aligning with current reporting methods for Indoor Air Quality (IAQ). The concept is that this will then provide further guidance to building operators to select filter products that target known issues.

Increased Opportunities for Export: ISO Standards are internationally recognized, providing credibility and affording compliant manufacturers market access to those countries and regions that utilise the ISO standard.

Why Choose ISO 16890?

Implementing air filters tested and classified according to ISO 16890 ensures that you are using filters that meet the latest standards of performance and efficiency. The user will ideally not notice a significant change in cost.

Is ISO 16890 That Different To What We Have?

No, ISO 16890 is a filter test method that is similar to AS 1324 in many ways. The key differences amount to a static discharge of synthetic filter media and the use of particle counters in-place of photometric sensors in determining fine filtration efficiency, but the ranges of operation of the test dusts are similar.