Turbulent vs laminar airflow in HEPA filters

If you choose the right HEPA filter for your application, an important element is to determine the airflow method – turbulent or laminar.

Laminar airflow is one in which the airflow flows in parallel streams without interference. However, in the case of turbulent flow, the air can be dispersed.

Why is this so important in health care, in the production of food or trace elements?

An operating room will serve as an example. Imagine that in the middle stands a bed on which the patient is lying and at this time surgery is performed. Above the bed, in the ceiling, there is a HEPA filter through which air flows. In such an environment the air flow must be uninterrupted = laminar, which will protect the patient from bacteria or germs that could get inside his body during surgery. As a curiosity, we will add that this is one of the reasons why surgeons complain of pain in the cervical segment because the laminar air stream is directed at them all the time during the procedure. In turn, another example is food production, e.g. meat or pharmaceutical production, where a high level of sterility is required and this is additionally supported by laminar airflow in rooms in such a way that any impurities found on the floor do not end up in the production process.

Is a laminar flow filter always required in such a situation?

Well, no, the difference is that a laminar flow HEPA filter can be used both in an environment where laminar or turbulent flow is required, while a HEPA turbulent flow filter cannot be used in an application where the laminar flow is required because such we will not be able to achieve the flow.

For this reason, our specialists pay special attention to the installation method and environment in which the HEPA filter will be used. And if you still have doubts, you can ask us a question at any time.