Automotive Engine Air Cleaners - Performance Trends

Filtration performance of EAC is generally measured and evaluated in the laboratory using standard test procedures. Filtration performance and service life expectations of EAC in real world conditions are important for robust designs. Lab measurements may or may not represent real world conditions. However they do provide stable, repeatable, and quick comparative analysis. Initial efficiency is one of the key performance measures of automotive EAC. Typical bench performance levels for three [1,2,5] major air filtration technologies are presented (i.e. initial/overall efficiency, face velocity and dust capacity). The air filter performance effectiveness is also calculated.

Typical filtration performance levels are predicted for EAC using paper type air filter elements. These performances are predicted from empirical models developed for various EAC designs using paper media.

Service life expectations are also discussed based on field evaluations. Service life of an EAC is related to its dust/contaminant holding capacity and its restriction rise over time.