Air Filter Surface Calculation

[Kevin Herber]

I'm putting together an AC unit for my garage/workshop. I am using a split system. The air handler is 8h x 5d x 32w. The fan capacity is 260cfm on high and 210 cfm on low. I want to build a hood with a flat filter panel on the front to keep the innerworkings clean.

The inlets are across the front and along the top. The total inlet area is 256 square inches. How much filter surface do I need so as not to impede air flow? I am plannng to buy 1 micron fabric from American Filter Fabric.

Thanks -- Kevin

[Bob Dodge]

;)Hi Kevin, Depending on the "weight" of fabric chosen (8 oz, 12 oz, 16 oz. etc) You can expect up to 50-60 cfm/Sq.Ft, and with 16oz, 1 micron filtration.

You can dramatacally increase surface area, by making filter pockets, several pockets, sewn side by side, and mounted to a frame.

The higher the sq. footage, the less pressure drop, and the lower the air to cloth ratio. That will enhance small particle filtration.

All the best, Bob