ULPA FILTER

ULPA FILTER

What is an ULPA Filter Used for?

An ULPA Filter is also known as an Ultra-Low Penetration Air filter. This type of filter is designed for applications that require the highest level of air purity possible, providing a certain amount of air filtration to keep contaminants out. These filters are essential in environments where even a microscopic contaminant can have serious consequences, often in medical and laboratory settings.
In a medical setting, an ULPA filter might protect surgery rooms from airborne pathogens where biohazards are a concern. Another setting where these filters are critical is in semiconductor manufacturing, where contamination from a single particle can destroy sensitive electronics and equipment.
ULPA filters must remove a minimum of 99.999% of particles of microns between the sizes of 0.1 and 0.2. This is an extraordinary level of filtration, making them a critical component in pharmaceutical manufacturing, semiconductor fabrication, and laboratory environments.

In ISO Class 1–3 cleanrooms, ULPA filters maintain ultra-low particle counts by filtering supply air through ceiling-mounted fan filter units (FFUs) or ducted systems. Key applications include:

• Semiconductor manufacturing: Reduces defects by 40% compared to HEPA filters
• Pharmaceutical aseptic processing: Ensures sterility in drug production
• Nanotechnology labs: Prevents interference from submicron particles

Modern ULPA systems prioritize low face velocity ((<0.45 m/s)) to prevent particle bypass and, just like HEPA, use gel-sealed housings for airtight installation.

ULPA Filter Efficiency

Efficiency depends on particle size and test standards:

99.9998% capture of 0.12-micron particles under MIL-STD-282 testing

99.9995% efficiency against oil smoke and chemical aerosols

ULPA Filter Specification

Standard specifications include:

• Grades: U15 (99.9995%), U16 (99.99995%), U17 (99.999995%) per EN 1822
• Dimensions: 610×610 mm to 1220×1220 mm
• Airflow: 250–750 m³/h per module
• Materials: Fire-retardant fiberglass with MERV 20-rated media
• Certifications: Passes PAO aerosol leak tests and IEST-RP-CC034 protocols

Operating limits: 4°C–38°C temperature range, 20–80% humidity. Filters exceeding these parameters risk reduced efficiency or structural damage.