What is the best air particle counter

for clean rooms validation?

Is it possible to purchase a low-cost particle counter?

The best particle counter for cleanroom validation depends on the specific requirements of
the cleanroom and the budget available. However, some of the most popular and highly
rated particle counter manufacturers for cleanroom validation include:

 Lighthouse Worldwide Solutions

 Particle Measuring Systems
 Climet
 Met One Instruments
 Particles plus

Why might you not get the same readings from all counters in
the same environment?

Page 1 of 4 Author: Osama Kamel Egyptian Engineering Systems

Email: Osama@ees9.com October 2023
 There are a few reasons why air particle counters from different
manufacturers may not read the same in the same environment

 Different manufacturers use different particle counting algorithms.

 Different manufacturers have different calibration procedures.
 Environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, airflow, and electrostatic charge
can also affect the readings of air particle counters.

Different manufacturers use different particle counting algorithms. These algorithms are used
to convert the raw sensor data into a particle count. The algorithms can vary depending on
the manufacturer's proprietary knowledge and the specific particle counting technology
used.
1. Counting algorithm correctness
 The algorithm used in an air particle counter to count particles must be correct to
produce accurate results. The algorithm should consider all the factors that can affect
particle counting, such as the size and shape of the particles, the flow rate of the air,
and the optical properties of the particles.

 Validation of counting algorithm against a CNC particle counter

 A CNC particle counter is a reference particle counter that is known to be
100% accurate in counting. By validating the algorithm used in an air particle
counter against a CNC particle counter, it can be ensured that the air particle
counter is producing accurate results.
 If the algorithm used in an air particle counter is not validated against a CNC
particle counter, then it is possible that the air particle counter is producing
inaccurate results. This can lead to problems in applications where accurate
particle counting is critical, such as cleanroom validation and pharmaceutical
manufacturing.
 It is important to note that not all air particle counters are validated against
CNC particle counters. It is important to check with the manufacturer of the
air particle counter to see if the algorithm has been validated. If the algorithm
has not been validated, then it is important to use the air particle counter with
caution and to be aware of the potential for inaccurate results.

2. Different calibration procedures.

o Different manufacturers have different calibration procedures. Calibration is the

process of adjusting the particle counter to ensure that it is reading accurately. The
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Email: Osama@ees9.com October 2023
 calibration procedures used by different manufacturers can vary, which can lead to
different readings.
o Even with the existence of ISO 21501-4, different manufacturers may have different
calibration procedures for air particle counters. This is because ISO 21501-4 provides
general guidelines for the calibration of air particle counters, but it does not specify
a specific calibration procedure.
o Different manufacturers may have different calibration procedures for the following
reasons:
o Different particle counter designs: Different manufacturers have different particle
counter designs. The design of the particle counter can affect the calibration
procedure. For example, the size and type of inlet opening can affect the calibration
procedure.
o Even though different manufacturers may have different calibration procedures, ISO
21501-4 does require that all particle counters be calibrated using a traceable and
internationally recognized standard. This helps to ensure that all particle counters are
calibrated to the same standard and that the results from different particle counters
are comparable.

o Not all air particle counters have built-in pulse height analyzers (PHAs).

 Here are some of the reasons why not all air particle counters have built-in
PHAs:

 Cost: PHAs can be expensive to manufacture, so adding one to an air

particle counter can increase the cost of the counter.
 Size and weight: PHAs can be large and heavy, so adding one to an air
particle counter can make the counter less portable.
 Complexity: PHAs can be complex to operate and maintain, so adding
one to an air particle counter can make the counter more difficult to
use.

o Despite these disadvantages, there are also some advantages to having a built-in
PHA in an air particle counter. PHAs can improve the accuracy and reliability of
particle counting, and they can also make it easier to calibrate the counter.

3. Environmental factors
o In addition to the above factors, the following environmental factors can also affect
the readings of air particle counters:

Page 3 of 4 Author: Osama Kamel Egyptian Engineering Systems

Email: Osama@ees9.com October 2023
 o Temperature: Temperature can affect the density of the air, which can affect the
flow rate of the particle counter and the efficiency of the particle counting
technology used.
o Humidity: Humidity can condense on the particle counter's sensors, which can affect
the accuracy of the readings.
o Airflow: Airflow can affect the distribution of particles in the air, which can affect the
particle count that is measured by the particle counter.
o Electrostatic charge: Electrostatic charge can attract particles to the particle
counter, which can lead to higher readings.

Can you buy a low-cost particle counter?

The simple answer is No, it is not possible to buy a low-cost particle counter, it is important
to choose a counter from a reputable manufacturer. You should also make sure that the
counter has the features and accuracy that you need.

Here are some tips for choosing a low-cost air particle counter
 Make sure that the counter has a sufficient particle size range for your needs.
 Choose a counter with a flow rate that is appropriate for the size of the area you will be
monitoring. In pharmaceutical industry choose the counter to include 0.5- & 5-micron size
 Select a counter that is calibrated to the ISO standard for air particle counter calibration
(ISO 21501-4).
 Look for a counter that has a good reputation and that is backed by a warranty and a
representative in your territory who can provide yearly calibration and maintenance if
needed. Every representative has the counter special tools for calibration this brand with
the passwords for maintenance so actually having a counter with no local support is a big
mistake unless you plan to return it to the manufactures yearly for calibration and
maintenance if need at any time which is extra cost should be considered
 So, from the beginning it is not a clever idea to buy low-cost particle counter and use it in
a clean room built to protect large investments

If you are unsure whether a low-cost air particle counter is right for you, especially if you are
in a regulated industry, then it is best to consult with an expert.

References
 ISO 21501-4:2007: Determination of particle size distribution and concentration of airborne
particles by light scattering methods
 Handbook of Aerosol Science and Technology (John H. Vincent)

Page 4 of 4 Author: Osama Kamel Egyptian Engineering Systems

Email: Osama@ees9.com October 2023