TEN Automotive develops particle number tester for PTI applications

13 August 2020

The Netherlands-based TEN Automotive Equipment announced that its Particle Counter, model AEM, is the first official NMi approved tester that meets the new NPTI specifications.

The New Periodic Technical Inspections (NPTI) initiative aims to develop the regulatory framework and instruments to implement new PTI emission tests using particle number emission testers to identify emissions tampering—such as removing the DPF—or detecting failed aftertreatment components. The Netherlands is the first country that adopted NPTI regulations and specifications for PTI-PN testers.

The TEN AEM Particle Counter, Figure 1, utilizes a diffusion charge (DC) sensor that operates based on the ionizing technique, also known as ‘escaping current’. Using a corona discharge, the sensor induces electrical charge on the soot particles. Excess ions are removed by an electrical field, while the total charge left on the charged particles is measured by the electrometer.

The AEM has a microprocessor-controlled flow system, gas conditioning system with dryer, various filters including a HEPA filter for zeroing and a heated sample hose probe to prevent condensation with stainless steel sample probe. The AEM can perform a continuous test, an NPTI test procedure, and various control functions. The results are presented on a clear OLED display and can be printed on an integrated thermal printer.

The instrument, including the DC sensor, was developed in-house by TEM, following the specifications of the NPTI working group. The particle counter can be used as a standalone unit, or connected to a PC with RS232, USB or Bluetooth connection.

Selected specifications of the TEN AEM Particle Counter:

• Dimensions: 23×43×36 cm (H×L×D)
• Weight: approx. 8 kg
• Particle concentration range: 0 - 5,000,000 #/cm³
• Measurement resolution: 100 #/cm³
• Warm-up time: less than 10 minutes
• Response time: less than 15 seconds
• Nominal flow: 1.50 L/min
• Ambient temperature: 5 - 40 °C
• Max. power consumption: 100 W
• Voltage: 230 Vac

With this NMi approval for the TEN AEM tester, there are now two PTI-PN instruments that can be legally used in PTI inspections in the Netherlands. The other tester is the NPET by TSI, which has been approved based on its Swiss SR 941.242 certification.

Source: TEN Automotive Equipment