Air Flow Calculator

Download our air flow calculator to estimate pressure drop based on dimensions and air velocity. Need help? Contact UAF engineering using the buttons below.

How To Spec An Air Filter

Numerous considerations come into play when designing custom air filters for OEM applications. The following should be reviewed early in the planning process:

  1. Determine the filtration performance requirements.
  2. Match filters to air-moving (cfm) requirements.
  3. Analyze the space available for filters.
  4. Specify standards and specifications (NEBS, ETSI, CE, UL 60950 (formerly UL 1950), etc.)

To get started on your custom air filter project, download our Air Flow calculator and/or try out our 3D CAD tools using the buttons to the left. If you need some help getting started or you’re ready to turn your design into a prototype,UAF engineers are standing by to help. Contact us today using the buttons below.


Filter Selection Procedure

Many thermal design engineers use the following steps when designing an air filter:

  1. Select air filter dimensions (length, width, thickness).
  2. Calculate airflow velocity in linear ft./min. using air volume rating of fan in cfm divided by surface area of air filter in sq. ft. (i.e. 200 cfm./0.50 sq. ft. = 400 fpm)
  3. Select disposable or reusable media.
  4. Use media initial resistance vs. face velocity data/curves for preferred media. Typically, initial resistance is 0.10″ wg (water gauge) or less.
  5. Select appropriate air filter model and frame thickness to accept selected media thickness. For example: Disposable, white UFM-50 media fits in any frame thickness (0.30″, 0.43″ or 0.50″). The cleanable/reusable Quadrafoam™ in 0.25 thickness fits 0.30″ and 0.43″ thick frames and 0.50″ thick Quadrafoam™ fits in 0.50″ thick frame.)
  6. Select a media color. Quadrafoam™ – gray or black. Polyester – white
  7. Determine if any handles or other fixtures are necessary for installation / removal.
  8. Prepare air filter drawing.
  9. Request a Prototype.