EN 14683 testing: the specifications that decide the fit

The TNG1047, TNG10044, and TNG1049 instruments are designed to meet the EN 14683 standard for fluid resistance testing of medical face masks, ensuring compliance with specified performance criteria.

Understanding Specification Tables

Reading a specification table is essential for ensuring that an instrument can accurately perform the required tests. For example, the TNG1047 Masks Bacterial Filtration Efficiency Tester has a Sample Flow Rate of A set at 28.3L/min. This value is critical because it simulates the airflow that a user would experience when wearing a mask, ensuring that the test conditions closely match real-world scenarios. Another important specification is the Front pressure of flow meter A, which is set within the range of (-20～0)kPa. This range allows for precise measurement of pressure differences across the mask, which is necessary for determining the filtration efficiency of the mask material.

Key Specifications for EN 14683 Compliance

The TNG1044 Face Mask Synthetic Blood Penetration Tester is specifically designed to assess the mask's ability to resist fluid penetration. One key specification is the Blood spraying distance, which is set at (300 ± 10) mm. This distance ensures that the synthetic blood is applied under controlled conditions, simulating the force of a liquid droplet from a cough or sneeze. Another important specification is the Nozzle inner diameter, which is 0.84 mm. This diameter is crucial because it affects the size and velocity of the droplets, ensuring that the test accurately reflects the conditions under which a mask would be used in a clinical setting.

Instrument Specifications and Test Setup

The TNG1049 Synthetic Blood Penetration Tester, although less detailed in its specifications, is designed to complement the testing capabilities of the TNG1044. While the TNG1049 does not have specific values listed, its design is intended to provide consistent and repeatable results when testing for fluid resistance. The TNG1044's Spraying speed options, such as 450 cm/s, 550 cm/s, 635 cm/s, allow for varying levels of impact, simulating different types of fluid exposure. This flexibility is important for comprehensive testing, as it ensures that the mask can withstand a range of potential fluid pressures.

By carefully selecting and using these instruments with their specified parameters, laboratories can ensure that their testing procedures are both accurate and compliant with the EN 14683 standard. Each specification plays a vital role in the test setup, contributing to the reliability and validity of the results.

Instrument models referenced

• TNG1047 Masks Bacterial Filtration Efficiency Tester (Air / Water / Vapour Permeability Testing). Published specifications include Main parameters Scope; Sample Flow Rate of A 28.3L/min; Sample Flow Rate of B 28.3L/min.
• TNG1044 Face Mask Synthetic Blood Penetration Tester (Air / Water / Vapour Permeability Testing). Published specifications include Blood spraying distance: (300 ± 10) mm; Nozzle inner diameter: 0.84 mm; Nozzle length: 12.7 mm.
• TNG1049 Synthetic Blood Penetration Tester (Air / Water / Vapour Permeability Testing).