MSA OptimAir 3000, Operating Manual

Page: 6 / 180

OPERATING CONDITIONS AND SELECTION MSA
6
Filters for OptimAir 3000
Attention!
Filtering devices must be used only when all preconditions stated above
are met without doubt. If this is not the case breathing apparatus must
be used (e. g. compressed air line breathing apparatus, compressed air
breathing apparatus, closed circuit breathing apparatus).
*In Germany: Device class TH2 = 20; TH3 = 100; TM 3 = 500 Device classification also cp. page 9.
2.2. Selection Criteria
Gas and Combined Filters:
OptimAir 3000 respiratory filters are classified according to filter type (A, B, E
and K) and filter class (1, 2 and 3). A letter and a colour identify the type of
respiratory filter as follows (see also possible device combinations

page 9):
Type Color Area of Application
A Brown
Vapours from organic compounds with a boiling point higher
than 65°C.
B Gray
Inorganic gases and vapours, e.g. Chlorine, hydrogen sulphide,
hydrogen cyanide (not carbon monoxide).
E Yellow Sulphur dioxide, hydrogen chloride, acid gases.
K Green Ammonia and organic ammonia derivatives.
P White
Particles of poisoning compounds with a negligible vapour
pressure.
For gas filters A, B, E and K the filter class to be used depends on the possible
maximum concentration of the hazardous gas and the required service time.
Particle Filters:
Particle filters (P Filters) are used when there are hazardous particles in the
ambient atmosphere.
Filters to be used against hazardous gases whose breakthrough
cannot be detected by odour, taste or irritation require special
regulations concerning duration and usage that depend on the
conditions of use.
When using particle filters against radioactive substances, micro
organisms (virus, bacteria, fungi and spores thereof) and biochemically
active substances (enzymes, hormones), only P filters with power
assisted filtering devices of classes TH2, TH3, TM2 and TM3 must be
used. The filters must be used only once.