Andersen TSP Sampler | Ambient Particulate Samplers | Air quality testing | Air quality monitoring | Air sampling equipment

TSP Mass Flow Controlled

All Andersen High Volume Air Samplers feature accurate collection of total suspended particulates exceeding EPA specifications. Air flow through a mass flow controlled system is maintained at a constant rate by an electronic probe which automatically adjusts the speed of the sampler to correct for variations in voltage temperature, pressure and filter loading. Adjustable over a range from 20 SCFM to 60 SCFM the air flow is controlled at constant standard conditions of 25 degrees C temperature and 760 mm Hg pressure within plus or minus 1 SCFM. By maintaining an exact air flow rate through the sampler, the average concentration measured is extremely accurate and reliable.

A typical Andersen TSP high volume air sampler incorporates a pressure recorder (G105) or a well-type manometer (G8WT) for flow verification. An elapsed time indicator (G901) is calibrated in hours, tenths, and hundredths meeting Federal Register specifications Vol 47 No. 234. Andersen sampling systems simplify all phases of the sampling process. Initial calibration requires no disassembly of the system.

TSP Volumetric Flow Contolled

The Volumetric Flow Controller (VFC) is a dimensional venturi device used to control gas flow. When applied to a high volume air sampler, this flow control principal incorporates a smooth-wall venturi orifice that gradually opens to a recovery section. Vacuum is provided by a motor downstream of the venturi. Over95% of the energy lost in differential pressures across the restricting orifice is recovered in this design.

Flow control is accomplished by occluding or restricting and thus accelerating the air flow through the venturi. At some point in the flow stream, the air velocity will equal the acoustic velocity or speed of sound, and critical flow will be achieved. As long as downstream changes are small, all conditions at the venturi (including the flow rate) are determined by upstream conditions. This condition is referred to as “choking” and is a distinctive characteristic of all VFCs. The Andersen TSP/VFC utilizes this principle of choked or critical flow to maintain a constant actual flow rate over the sample period. Since critical flow through the venturi is not greatly affected by changes in the filter loading, ambient temperature or barometric pressure, a stable volumetric flow rate is maintained as long as power is provided to the sampler blower motor.

The orifice used in this system can also be described as well documented Critical Venturi Meter (CVM). Basically, a CVM is a specially machined nozzle or restriction device designed to react to a specific pressure ratio expressed in absolute terms. When air reaches the speed of sound in the throat (smallest diameter) of the CVM, a sound pressure barrier is set up that will not allow more air through under the existing temperature and pressure conditions. This is the “critical flow” point of the meter, thus the name Critical Venturi Meter. The GMW Volumetric Flow Controller regulates flow at a constant but unadjustable rate without any moving parts or electronic components.