TSI 8587A Aerosol Photometer
| Origin | USA |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | 8587A |
| Pricing | Available Upon Request |
Overview
The TSI 8587A Aerosol Photometer is a precision optical instrument engineered for quantitative measurement of aerosol mass concentration in real time, based on the principle of forward-scattered light detection. It employs a highly stable, long-life laser diode (650 nm) as its excitation source, delivering consistent beam intensity over extended operational periods without measurable output decay. The photometer operates on the calibrated relationship between scattered light intensity and aerosol mass concentration—traceable to NIST-standardized polystyrene latex (PSL) spheres and ISO 14644-3 reference aerosols. Designed specifically for laboratory-based filter media and respirator certification testing—including NIOSH-approved N95, FFP2, and KN95 filtration efficiency evaluation—the 8587A meets the instrumental requirements outlined in ASTM F2299, ISO 16890, EN 1822, and FDA 21 CFR Part 11–compliant validation protocols when integrated into controlled test rigs.
Key Features
- Laser-based photometric detection with 650 nm diode laser, optimized for high signal-to-noise ratio and minimal thermal drift
- Integrated sheath air system that isolates the optical sensing zone from sample stream contaminants, maintaining ultra-low background noise (<0.001 μg/m³ equivalent) and eliminating routine optical cleaning
- Automatic range switching across a dynamic concentration span—from 1.0 μg/m³ to 200 mg/m³—enabling seamless transition between cleanroom background monitoring and high-concentration challenge testing
- Fixed sampling flow rate of 2.0 L/min with independent sheath air supply at ~20 L/min, ensuring laminar flow profile and particle-free optical path integrity
- Compact benchtop form factor (15 cm × 25 cm × 33 cm; 6.4 kg), designed for integration into ISO 17025-accredited filter test systems and GLP-compliant respiratory protection laboratories
- RS-232 and analog voltage outputs (0–5 V DC) for direct interfacing with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), data acquisition hardware, or custom-built test stands
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The 8587A is compatible with polydisperse and monodisperse challenge aerosols including sodium chloride (NaCl), dioctyl phthalate (DOP), polyalphaolefin (PAO), and ambient particulate matter (PM2.5/PM10) when conditioned via appropriate aerosol generators and dilution systems. Its response is calibrated for mass concentration (μg/m³) using traceable gravimetric standards and validated against filter penetration test methods per ISO 16890 Annex D and ASTM F2299 Annex A1. Instrument design conforms to IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC emissions) and IEC 61010-1 (safety for laboratory equipment). Full documentation—including factory calibration certificate, uncertainty budget, and metrological traceability statement—is provided with each unit to support audit readiness under ISO/IEC 17025, FDA, and EU Notified Body requirements.
Software & Data Management
While the 8587A operates as a stand-alone photometer with front-panel controls and analog output, its digital interface enables full integration with LabVIEW™ 2018+ environments via standard VISA drivers. Users can implement automated test sequences—including timed sampling, upstream/downstream differential measurements, and pass/fail logic for filter efficiency calculation (e.g., η = [1 − (Cdown/Cup)] × 100%). When deployed in regulated settings, the instrument supports 21 CFR Part 11 compliance through external software layers that enforce electronic signatures, audit trails, and user access control—ensuring data integrity throughout the testing lifecycle. Raw photometric output is timestamped and exportable in CSV or TDMS formats for statistical process control (SPC) analysis and report generation.
Applications
- Respirator filter media qualification per NIOSH 42 CFR Part 84, GB 2626–2019, and EN 149:2001+A1:2009
- HEPA/ULPA filter leak testing and performance verification in cleanrooms and pharmaceutical manufacturing suites
- Filter efficiency mapping across particle size ranges when coupled with differential mobility analyzers (DMA) or cascade impactors
- Aerosol generator output stability monitoring during ISO 14644-3 classification studies
- Research-grade aerosol dynamics studies requiring high-temporal-resolution mass concentration tracking
FAQ
Is the 8587A suitable for measuring nanoparticle concentrations?
No—the 8587A is optimized for particles ≥0.1 µm and provides best accuracy in the 0.3–10 µm range. For sub-100 nm aerosols, consider TSI’s SMPS or CPC series.
Does the instrument require annual recalibration?
Yes—TSI recommends annual factory recalibration against NIST-traceable standards to maintain measurement confidence per ISO/IEC 17025 Clause 6.5.
Can it be used outdoors or in high-humidity environments?
It is intended for indoor, temperature-controlled laboratory use only; operation outside 15–30 °C or >80% RH non-condensing may affect optical alignment and signal stability.
What maintenance does the sheath air system require?
Only periodic replacement of the integrated HEPA filter (part #TSI-8587A-SF) every 6–12 months, depending on ambient particulate loading.
Is firmware upgrade support available?
Yes—TSI provides free firmware updates via their official support portal, including enhanced communication protocols and diagnostic logging features.
