NASA/TM-2005-213846, Perry, J.L., International Space Station Bacteria Filter Element Service Life Evaluation, George C. Marshall Space Flight Center , Marshall Space Flight Center, AL 35812, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Washington, DC 20546-0001, April 2005, pp. 40, Format(s): PDF 2505k |
The International Space Station (ISS) uses high-efficiency particulate air filters to remove particulate
matter from the cabin atmosphere. Known as bacteria filter elements (BFEs), there are 13 elements
deployed on board the ISS's U.S. segment in the flight 4R assembly level. The preflight service life prediction
of 1 yr for the BFEs is based upon engineering analysis of data collected during developmental testing
that used a synthetic dust challenge. While this challenge is considered reasonable and conservative from
a design perspective, an understanding of the actual filter loading is required to best manage the critical ISS
program resources. Testing was conducted on BFEs returned from the ISS to refine the service life prediction.
Results from this testing and implications to ISS resource management are provided.
| Keywords: | life support, particulate matter, hepa filter, pressure drop, space station, ventilation, air quality |
|---|---|
| Subjects: | Life Sciences: Man/Systems Technology and Life Support: Life Support Systems |
| ID Code: | 701 |
| Deposited On: | 05 July 2005 |