SKC IMPACT Impactor-Based Particulate Matter Sampler (10 L/min)

Overview

The SKC IMPACT Impactor-Based Particulate Matter Sampler is a precision-engineered, constant-flow inertial impactor designed for size-selective aerosol sampling in environmental and occupational air quality monitoring. Operating at a calibrated volumetric flow rate of 10 L/min, the IMPACT sampler utilizes aerodynamic cut-point principles to physically separate airborne particulates by inertia—directing larger particles onto a pre-coated impaction substrate while allowing smaller particles to remain entrained in the airstream for subsequent collection on a downstream 47-mm filter. This dual-stage collection architecture enables concurrent measurement of mass concentrations for PM₁₀ (≤10 µm aerodynamic diameter), PM₂.₅ (≤2.5 µm), or the coarse fraction (PM₁₀–₂.₅) when configured with appropriate impactor stages. Its fixed-flow design eliminates reliance on variable-flow compensation algorithms, ensuring high reproducibility across field deployments and laboratory validation studies. The IMPACT is widely deployed in regulatory compliance monitoring, indoor air quality (IAQ) assessments, source apportionment studies, and method development aligned with EPA Method IO-3.2, ISO 7708:1995, and EN 12341:2014.

Key Features

• Fixed 10 L/min sampling flow—optimized for high sensitivity and reduced sampling duration without compromising size-selective performance
• Disposable, pre-oiled stainless-steel impaction plate—eliminates post-sampling cleaning, lubrication, or surface reconditioning; ensures consistent particle adhesion and minimizes bounce artifacts
• Modular 47-mm filter holder with positive-seal O-ring interface—enables rapid filter exchange in the field while maintaining leak-tight integrity per ISO 17025 calibration requirements
• Compact, lightweight aluminum housing—designed for unattended outdoor operation; compatible with optional weather-resistant rain shield (SKC P/N 225-4006) and universal rapid-mount bracket (SKC P/N 225-4007)
• No internal moving parts or consumable electronics—maximizes operational uptime and reduces maintenance burden in remote or long-term deployments
• Interchangeable impactor stages—supports PM₁₀ (IMPACT 10), PM₂.₅ (IMPACT 2.5), and custom-cutpoint configurations validated per ISO/TR 29201:2013 guidelines

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The IMPACT sampler is validated for use with standard 47-mm membrane filters (e.g., PVC, PTFE, quartz fiber) and certified impact substrates meeting NIOSH Manual of Analytical Methods (NMAM) Chapter 2 and EPA Compendium Method TO-13A specifications. Cut-point efficiency curves for IMPACT 10 and IMPACT 2.5 were determined in controlled aerosol wind tunnels using monodisperse polystyrene latex (PSL) spheres and ammonium sulfate test aerosols, demonstrating ≥50% collection efficiency at nominal cut-points with geometric standard deviations (σg) ≤1.2. The system complies with ISO/IEC 17025:2017 requirements for testing laboratories when used with traceable flow calibrators (e.g., SKC Sidekick or DryCal DC-Lite). It supports GLP-compliant data generation when paired with Leland Legacy pumps equipped with audit-trail-capable firmware (21 CFR Part 11–ready configuration available).

Software & Data Management

While the IMPACT itself is a passive mechanical device requiring no embedded software, its integration with the Leland Legacy programmable sampling pump enables full digital workflow management. The Leland Legacy’s onboard microcontroller logs real-time flow, pressure drop, temperature, battery voltage, and runtime with timestamped records stored in non-volatile memory. Data export via USB or Bluetooth supports CSV and XML formats compatible with LIMS platforms (e.g., LabWare, Thermo Fisher SampleManager) and statistical analysis tools (R, Python pandas). Optional SKC AirCheck Connect software provides automated QA/QC flagging—including flow deviation alerts (>±5% from setpoint), low-battery warnings, and filter saturation estimates based on differential pressure trends.

Applications

• Regulatory ambient air monitoring networks (e.g., U.S. EPA SLAMS, EEA AirBase)
• Indoor air quality characterization in schools, hospitals, and office buildings per ASHRAE Standard 62.1
• Occupational exposure assessment in construction, mining, and manufacturing per OSHA Method ID-202 and NIOSH Method 0500
• Source testing of combustion emissions, dust-generating processes, and fugitive particulate releases
• Method validation and inter-laboratory comparison studies under ISO 5725-2:2019
• Long-term trend analysis of atmospheric aerosol composition in climate research programs

FAQ

What flow rate is required for optimal performance?
The IMPACT sampler is engineered exclusively for operation at 10 L/min. Deviation beyond ±3% requires recalibration of cut-point efficiency and is not recommended for regulatory reporting.
Can I use non-SKC pumps with the IMPACT sampler?
Yes—the IMPACT is mechanically compatible with any pump capable of delivering stable 10 L/min flow and sufficient vacuum reserve (>25 kPa) to overcome total system pressure drop (typically 12–18 kPa at end-of-sampling). However, only the Leland Legacy pump provides integrated flow verification and audit-ready logging.
Is the impaction plate reusable?
No. The pre-oiled stainless-steel impactor plate is supplied as a single-use, sterile-packaged component to ensure consistent particle retention and eliminate cross-sample contamination risk.
How often should I verify flow calibration?
Per ISO/IEC 17025 and EPA guidance, flow calibration must be performed before each sampling event using a NIST-traceable primary standard (e.g., bubble meter or critical orifice calibrator) and documented in the chain-of-custody record.
Does the IMPACT meet U.S. Federal Reference Method (FRM) criteria?
While not FRM-designated, the IMPACT meets all technical specifications outlined in EPA Reference Method PS-1 for PM₂.₅ and PS-2 for PM₁₀ samplers when operated with Leland Legacy and certified filters, and is routinely accepted for non-regulatory and supplemental monitoring applications.