TFC-30 Dust Sampler

Overview

The TFC-30 Dust Sampler is a microprocessor-controlled, portable gravimetric sampling instrument engineered for occupational and environmental airborne particulate matter (PM) collection on filter media. It operates on the principle of constant-flow aspiration, drawing ambient air through a pre-weighed filter membrane at a user-selectable, electronically stabilized volumetric flow rate. Designed in accordance with standard filter-based dust sampling methodologies—including those referenced in ISO 7708 (airborne particles), EN 481 (workplace aerosol sampling), and OSHA Method ID-142—the TFC-30 ensures reproducible sample volume acquisition under variable backpressure conditions, such as those induced by filter loading or restricted inlet configurations. Its integrated high-efficiency diaphragm pump delivers ≥15,000 Pa maximum vacuum, enabling reliable operation with dense or high-resistance filter substrates (e.g., PVC, PTFE, or mixed-cellulose ester membranes). The device supports both field-deployed personal monitoring and fixed-location area sampling, complying with NIOSH and ACGIH sampling protocols requiring precise time-integrated volumetric flow control.

Key Features

• Four selectable flow ranges: 1–15 L/min, 3–30 L/min, 5–25 L/min, and 5–30 L/min—configurable to match respirable, inhalable, or total dust fraction sampling criteria;
• Microcontroller-based constant-flow regulation with real-time LCD display showing instantaneous flow rate and remaining sampling time;
• Programmable digital timer with 99-hour 59-minute countdown capability and pause/resume functionality—enabling flexible sampling schedules across shifts or breaks without interrupting data continuity;
• Dual-power architecture: operates seamlessly on 10 V DC (internal Ni-MH battery) or 220 V AC mains; battery provides ~4 hours of continuous operation after full charge (14–16 h charging time at 300 mA);
• Ruggedized compact housing (200 × 160 × 140 mm) with IP54-rated ingress protection against dust and splashing water, suitable for industrial and outdoor deployment;
• Low-noise design (<60 dB(A)) ensures non-disruptive operation in laboratory, workshop, or office environments;
• Integrated voltage monitoring: LCD displays real-time battery voltage during sampling and charging—facilitating proactive power management and preventing unexpected shutdowns;
• Compliance-ready mechanical design: no internal memory or electronic audit trail, aligning with GLP-compliant manual logging workflows where raw data are recorded externally per ISO/IEC 17025 requirements.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The TFC-30 is compatible with standard 37-mm or 25-mm diameter filter cassettes (e.g., PVC, polycarbonate, or gelatin filters) mounted via included sampling heads and filter holders. It meets the physical and operational prerequisites for use in regulatory sampling strategies defined in OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1200 (Hazard Communication), NIOSH Manual of Analytical Methods (NMAM) Chapter 1010 (Total Dust) and 1020 (Respirable Dust), and EU Directive 2004/37/EC (carcinogens and mutagens). While the instrument itself does not generate analytical data, its flow stability (≤±5% deviation) and timing accuracy (≤±1‰) support traceable mass concentration calculations (mg/m³) when paired with certified gravimetric analysis per ISO 12103-1 or ASTM D7263. No firmware or software validation is required, making it suitable for QA/QC laboratories operating under minimal computerized system regulation.

Software & Data Management

The TFC-30 is a standalone hardware-only sampling platform with no embedded software, cloud connectivity, or data export capability. All operational parameters—including start time, duration, flow setting, and battery status—are observable via the LCD interface but are not stored or retrievable electronically. This architecture eliminates cybersecurity concerns, reduces validation burden, and supports traditional paper-based chain-of-custody documentation. Users record sampling metadata manually in field logs or LIMS-compatible worksheets. For laboratories subject to FDA 21 CFR Part 11 or EU Annex 11, the device functions as a “non-reporting instrument” — its outputs require independent transcription and signature verification, consistent with Annex 11 §5.11 guidance on low-risk equipment.

Applications

• Occupational hygiene monitoring for total, respirable, and inhalable dust fractions in mining, construction, manufacturing, and pharmaceutical production;
• Indoor air quality (IAQ) assessment in offices, schools, and healthcare facilities;
• Baseline ambient particulate characterization in urban, rural, or industrial perimeter zones;
• Validation of local exhaust ventilation (LEV) system performance per HSE HSG258 guidelines;
• Educational and training use in environmental science and industrial hygiene curricula;
• Pre-compliance screening prior to formal certification testing per ISO 16000-16 or EN 12341.

FAQ

What filter types and diameters are supported?
The TFC-30 accommodates standard 25-mm and 37-mm circular filter membranes using supplied sampling heads and filter cassettes. Compatible materials include polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), mixed cellulose ester (MCE), and gelatin filters.

Does the instrument meet ISO or NIOSH calibration requirements?
Yes—the flow control system maintains ≤±5% accuracy across its specified range and is suitable for calibration using primary standards such as bubble flow meters or dry gas meters traceable to NIST or UKAS. Field verification is recommended before each sampling campaign.

Can the TFC-30 be used in explosive atmospheres?
No. The TFC-30 is not intrinsically safe or ATEX-certified. For hazardous locations, consult explosion-proof variants offered by specialized OEMs compliant with IEC 60079-0 and EN 60079-11.

How often should the internal battery be recharged if unused?
If stored for more than three months, the Ni-MH battery must be recharged to maintain capacity and cycle life. Store in a cool, dry environment (<35 °C, <65% RH) with battery charge level between 40–60%.

Is technical documentation available in English?
Yes—full English-language user manual, specification sheet, and CE-conformity declaration (for applicable export markets) are provided upon order fulfillment.