Diesel Particulate Matter (DPM) Cassette

For Elemental Carbon Analysis by NIOSH 5040

Collect submicron particles

Integral precision-jeweled impactor screens out particles > 1.0 µm such as coal dust
Heat-treated quartz filter collects submicron particles.

Meets NIOSH Method 5040 specifications
Provides optimum DPM collection efficiency

Evaluated at 1.7 L/min in metal/non-metal mines and 2.0 L/min in coal mines; flow rates are used by MSHA

Sample integrity assured

Heat-treated quartz filters assure low carbon background
Designed for single use
Tamper-evident sealed
Streamlined cassette design

SKC DPM Cassette Product Data Bulletin (PDF)

SKC DPM Cassette Operating Instructions (PDF)

Modification and Validation of Diesel Particulate Matter Cassette for PM1.0 Sampling at Different Flow Rates (PowerPoint)

DPM Analytical Laboratories Reference List

The DPM Cassette
Other cassettes may meet NIOSH Method 5040 specifications for the collection of diesel particulate, but only the SKC DPM Cassette separates diesel particulate matter (DPM) from other respirable dust (such as coal dust) based on particle size. The precision-jeweled impactor and impaction substrate, loaded into a streamlined, single-use cassette, screens out and retains respirable particles > 1.0 µm aerodynamic diameter. Particles less than 1.0 µm are collected on a heat-treated low carbon quartz filter. Samples are analyzed for organic and elemental carbon content using a highly sensitive Evolved Gas Analysis (EGA) technique with thermal-optical analyzer as specified in NIOSH Method 5040.

The DPM Advantage

Collection of submicron diesel particles without interference of coal-source elemental carbon. Precision-jeweled impactor screens out interfering coal dust.

Low carbon background filters assure accurate results.

Single-use cassettes are tamper-evident sealed to ensure sample integrity.

Uses a standard personal constant flow pump. Flow rates of 1.7 L/min and 2.0 L/min provide optimum collection. Use a standard constant flow sample pump such as the SKC AirChek® 2000 or Universal PCXR.

Meets specifications of NIOSH Method 5040 for the analysis of elemental carbon (EC) to determine total carbon (organic and elemental) in a sample. Total carbon represents more than 80% of diesel particulate emissions. Compared to gravimetric methods, NIOSH 5040 is more sensitive and specific for EC.

The DPM Sampling Train
The SKC DPM Cassette is used with a sample pump capable of a flow rate of 1.7 or 2.0 L/min such as the AirChek 2000 or Universal XR Series. A respirable cyclone may be added to the train in sampling situations where carbonate or other larger particles are present that could clog the cassette impactor. SKC offers the GS-1 Single-inlet Cyclone for use with DPM Cassettes.

The GS-1 Single-inlet Cyclone
The GS-1 Cyclone is a single-inlet cyclone that provides performance equivalent to the Dorr-Oliver Cyclone. The GS-1 Cyclone has the added advantage of conductive plastic construction. This material eliminates the electrostatic effects experienced when using the non-conductive nylon Dorr-Oliver cyclone and is safe for use in underground mines. The GS-1 Cyclone is designed for use with the SKC DPM Cassette and for respirable dust sampling.

A cyclone should be used in settings where carbonate particles or larger particulate that can clog the impactor are likely to be sampled.

GS-1 Single-inlet Cyclone cat. no. 225-105

Cassette Without Impactor for NIOSH 5040
SKC Also offers preloaded cassettes without impactors (Cat. No. 225-401) that meet NIOSH 5040 specifications for sampling DPM. When it is not necessary to separate DPM from other respirable particles, such as coal dust, perform more economical sampling by using the 225-401 preloaded cassettes. Each cassette contains a NIOSH-specified heat-treated quartz filter and cellulose support pad.

Filter Cassette/Cyclone Holder Accessory
This lightweight holder accommodates either a DPM Cassette or other filter cassettes with or without a cyclone. The holder conveniently clips to a worker's collar. It is required when using the DPM Cassette with the GS-1 Cyclone.

Filter Cassette/Cyclone Holder Accessory cat. no 225-1

Elemental Carbon Analysis
NIOSH Method 5040 recommends analysis of elemental carbon to quantitatively determine the total carbon (organic and elemental) in a sample. Total carbon represents more than 80% of diesel particulate emissions. When compared to gravimetric methods, NIOSH Method 5040 for Elemental Carbon Analysis is more specific and sensitive.

Ordering Information Online Ordering

SKC Diesel Particulate Matter (DPM) Cassette	Qty.	Cat. No.
With precision-jeweled impactor, contains two 37-mm heat-treated quartz filters (limited shelf life), tamper-evident sealed, meets NIOSH 5040 specifications	10	225-317
Organic Carbon and Elemental Carbon Filter Cassette	Qty.	Cat. No.
Without impactor, standard 3-piece clear styrene cassette loaded with 37-mm heat-treated quartz filter, support pad, banded, meets NIOSH 5040 specifications	50	225-401
Accessories
GS-1 Cyclone, single-inlet, 10 mm, conductive plastic, includes bowl adapter, 37-mm cassette adapter, and grit pot, for use with DPM cassette to avoid filter overload by large particles		225-105
Filter Cassette/Cyclone Holder includes 3 feet of 1/4-inch ID Tygon tubing and a 25-mm adapter ring, for attaching a DPM or standard filter cassette to worker's clothing in the breathing zone. May be used with or without a cyclone, required when using DPM Cassette with GS-1 Cyclone		225-1
Multi-purpose Calibration Jar, provides convenient calibration. The rugged 32-ounce polypropylene jar contains a quick screw cap and barbed fitting for easy use.		225-111

Custom Cassettes with Integral Impactors
ONLY from SKC!
SKC will manufacture custom-designed sampling cassettes in the DPM cassette housing using filter media and impactors with your specified cut-points and flow rates. Contact SKC to discuss your unique sampling requirements.

SKC DPM Cassette Product Data Bulletin (PDF)

This page was last modified March 5, 2010

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Ordering Information