Air filter
Air filter
An Air filter (/ɛər fɪltər/) is a device composed of fibrous, or porous materials which removes solid particulates such as dust, pollen, mold, and bacteria from the air.
Etymology
The term "Air filter" comes from the English words "air" and "filter". "Air" is derived from the Old English ǣr, while "filter" comes from the Medieval Latin filtrum, meaning "felt", a material that was used in the process of filtration.
Function
Air filters are used in applications where air quality is important, notably in building ventilation systems and in engines. Some buildings, as well as aircraft and other man-made environments (e.g., satellites and space shuttles) use foam, pleated paper, or spun fiberglass filter elements. Another method, air ionizers, use fibers or elements with a static electric charge, which attract dust particles. The air intakes of internal combustion engines and air compressors tend to use either paper, foam, or cotton filters.
Types of Air Filters
There are several types of air filters, including:
- HEPA filters: High Efficiency Particulate Air filters are used in medical facilities, automobiles, aircraft, and homes.
- ULPA filters: Ultra Low Penetration Air filters are used in cleanrooms and pharmaceutical industries.
- Furnace filters: These are used in HVAC systems to protect the machinery from dust and dirt.
- Cabin air filters: These are used in vehicles to clean the air that enters the cabin of the vehicle.
Related Terms
- Air purifier: A device which removes contaminants from the air in a room to improve indoor air quality.
- HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning is the technology of indoor and vehicular environmental comfort.
- Internal combustion engine: An engine in which combustion of a fuel occurs with an oxidizer in a combustion chamber.
- Cleanroom: A room in which the concentration of airborne particles is controlled to specified limits.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Air filter
- Wikipedia's article - Air filter
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