Description / Abstract:
This SAE Aerospace Recommended Practice (ARP) describes a
procedure for determining the insoluble contamination level of the
downstream side of filter elements. Results of this procedure
represent the particulate released from the tested filter element
under the prevailing conditions of the test. The results may be
used for comparative evaluation of the effectiveness of various
cleaning methods or the cleanliness of elements after cleaning or
as received from manufacturers.
Outline of Method:
A representative portion of the contamination on the downstream
side of the filter element under test is removed by placing the
filter element in an ultrasonic bath for a set period of time and
then withdrawing a sample through the filter under test into a
vacuum flask. The sample is then filtered per ARP598. The insoluble
contamination is thus transferred onto the surface of the membrane
filter disk where it can be examined microscopically to determine
the amount of contamination released from the filter element.