Thermo Fisher Scientific Partisol Series Particulate Matter Samplers

Overview

The Thermo Fisher Scientific Partisol Series particulate matter (PM) samplers are regulatory-compliant, continuous ambient air monitoring systems engineered for long-term, unattended operation in compliance with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Federal Reference Methods (FRMs) and Federal Equivalent Methods (FEMs) for PM_2.5, PM₁₀, and coarse particulate matter (PM_C). These instruments employ gravimetric sampling principles—drawing ambient air through standardized 47-mm diameter filters housed in precision-machined filter cassettes—to collect mass-based particulate fractions for subsequent laboratory analysis per EPA Method IO-2.1, ISO 12103-1, or equivalent standards. Designed for networked deployment in national air quality monitoring programs—including the U.S. EPA’s Air Quality System (AQS) and international regulatory frameworks—the Partisol platform delivers metrologically traceable data essential for epidemiological studies, regulatory reporting, and trend analysis.

Key Features

• Regulatory alignment: Certified as FRM/FEM for PM_2.5 (EPA Code EQPM-0805-196), PM₁₀ (EQPM-0805-195), and TSP (EQPM-0805-194); supports dual-channel configurations for parallel fractionation.
• Automated filter exchange: Partisol 2025i and 2025i-D models feature a 14-day carousel-based filter changer enabling fully autonomous daily sampling without manual intervention; the “D” variant supports simultaneous independent sampling of two size fractions (e.g., PM_2.5 + PM₁₀).
• Manual operation option: Partisol 2000i and 2000i-D provide identical flow control and environmental robustness with user-replaced 47-mm filters—ideal for laboratories requiring flexibility or supplemental calibration campaigns.
• Enhanced human-machine interface: Integrated LCD touchscreen with intuitive navigation, real-time diagnostics (flow rate, temperature, pressure drop across filter), and configurable alarm thresholds for out-of-specification conditions.
• Network-ready architecture: Ethernet and RS-232/RS-485 interfaces support integration into SCADA systems; compatible with Thermo Fisher’s AirWatch™ remote monitoring software for secure, encrypted data retrieval and instrument health telemetry.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Partisol Series accommodates standard 47-mm circular filters—including quartz fiber, Teflon-coated glass fiber, and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)—per EPA guidance for artifact minimization and analytical compatibility with gravimetric, elemental carbon (EC/OC), and ion chromatography workflows. All models comply with ISO/IEC 17025:2017 requirements for testing laboratories when operated within documented quality assurance protocols. Data integrity meets FDA 21 CFR Part 11 criteria when paired with validated AirWatch™ software, including electronic signatures, audit trails, and role-based access control. Instrument performance adheres to EN 12341:2014 (ambient air—determination of PM₁₀/PM_2.5) and is referenced in WHO Air Quality Guidelines (2021) implementation frameworks.

Software & Data Management

Thermo Fisher’s AirWatch™ software provides centralized configuration, real-time visualization, and automated report generation (daily, weekly, monthly). Raw flow, temperature, pressure, and operational status logs are timestamped and stored locally on SD card (optional) and remotely via secure FTP or HTTPS push. The system supports CSV, XML, and EPA AQS-compatible formats for direct ingestion into national databases. Audit trails record all parameter changes, user logins, and filter change events—ensuring full traceability for GLP/GMP-aligned environmental laboratories and regulatory submissions.

Applications

• Long-term regulatory monitoring networks (e.g., U.S. State and Local Air Monitoring Stations)
• Source apportionment studies requiring co-located PM_2.5/PM₁₀ time-series data
• Method validation and inter-laboratory comparison exercises
• Indoor/outdoor exposure assessment in occupational health and urban epidemiology
• Calibration and verification of optical particle counters and beta attenuation monitors (BAMs)

FAQ

Which PM size fractions can the Partisol Series measure?
The system supports PM_2.5, PM₁₀, coarse PM (PM_C), and total suspended particulates (TSP) using certified inlet configurations and 47-mm filters.
Is remote diagnostics supported?
Yes—via integrated Ethernet and AirWatch™ software, users can monitor flow stability, temperature, pressure drop, and filter change status in real time from offsite locations.
What filter types are compatible?
Quartz fiber (for EC/OC analysis), PTFE membrane (for gravimetric and ion chromatography), and nylon-backed glass fiber filters compliant with EPA Method IO-2.1.
Does the system meet international regulatory standards beyond U.S. EPA?
Yes—certifications and operational protocols align with EN 12341:2014, ISO 7708:1995, and WHO AQG technical annexes for ambient PM monitoring.
How is data integrity ensured for regulatory reporting?
AirWatch™ implements 21 CFR Part 11–compliant audit trails, electronic signatures, and immutable logging—validated for use in GLP/GMP environments and EPA AQS submissions.