Tools to Measure Particles in the Air

How Air Particle Counters Work

• All air particle counters use a form of optical scanning to determine the particles in the air. They can measure a general sample or the particle count in a specific location. Light shines on the air sample, and optical readers find the size and concentration of what is in the air.

Handheld Particle Counters

• Handheld particle counters are, as the name implies, devices to measure air quality that are handheld. They can be brought to a location in a room and measure contaminates quickly, generating an accurate count in a wide range of readings. They are often used in filter testing, mold remediation, and to test the suitability of a sterile environment. They can also be configured to compare the relative contaminants between two areas.

Portable Particle Counters

• Portable particle counters are similar to handheld particle counters, except they have more capabilities. They can be placed on certain areas, like desks or trolley cars. They can also be left in these areas to continuously check air quality. Portable particle counters have the advantage of sampling faster than handheld particle counters. They can give readings of particles in more extreme environments, like high-temperature zones.

Aerosol Particle Counters

• Aerosol particle counters find particles very quickly. They are devices that read the count and size of particles. Often they are employed in enclosed environments, like in the pharmaceutical industry, or in semiconductor manufacturing, but can be used outside as well. Electrical field areas and aerospace also use particle counters to prevent contamination and explosions.