- What type of protection does the mask ensure?
The half mask protects against drops and dust suspended in air – particulate matter, including PM2.5 andPM10, natural pollens, fungi and mites. Pollution is filtered by four-layer filtering insert.
- What is the difference between the models
Both models are equipped in identical four-layer BROYX 4P1 filters, while the essential difference is in the structure of mask body. The bodies of BROYX ANTYSMOG SPORT 500 and ALFA models are made of openwork polyester non-woven fabric, while of BROYX ANTYSMOG SPORT 700 and DELTA models of neoprene combined with different fastening system. The advantage of BROYX 500 and ALFA mask models its is large vapour permeability, while of BROYX 700 and DELTA models – flexibility, enhanced stability and additional face protection against unfavourable weather conditions.
- In what filter are the masks equipped?
The BROYX ANTYSMOG SPORT half masks are equipped in four-layer BROYX 4P1 filtering insert. The filter is composed among others of E12 electret filtering non-woven fabric (filtration effectiveness >= 99.5%) and activated carbon layer.
- How does the mask filter work?
Particulates and liquid drops are eliminated by penetration of air through subsequent filter layers and accumulation of pollution on the filter fibres. This is one of the most effective methods for cleaning air from aerosol particles. High effectiveness result from the special structure of filtering layer – non-woven fabric is electrostatically charged, which attracts aerosols suspended in air and fosters their accumulation on the filter.
- What is the mask filtration class?
The mask filtration class specifies the effectiveness of filtration. Pursuant to the EN 149 standard in force in the EU, there are three filtration classes, namely: FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3. The higher the number, the greater minimum guaranteed filtration effectiveness (however higher breathing resistance).
- Why filtration effectiveness of the filter non-woven fabric is different from filtration of the mask as a whole?
High class filtration non-woven fabric is necessary yet insufficient to construct the efficient mask. Construction of half mask is unable to ensure perfect tightness to face. Presence of any and all gaps and holes results in sucking of untreated air and drastically reduces the protection rate. Thus fitting the mask to the user’s face and relevant construction of filter (including among others fitted exhalation valves and nasal seal) are of the essence for ensuring effective protection.
- • Why the BROYX ANTYSMOG SPORT masks are assigned with FFP1 class rather than FFP2 or FFP3?
These half masks are designed to ensure high FFP1 protection level combined with maximum breathability (i.e. minimum airflow resistance). Reaching the FFP2 or even FFP3 protection level is possible however correlated with significant increase of breathing resistance, in particular in the increased air demand caused by physical effort.
- What are HEPA-type filters?
This is a group of highly effective filters, between E10 85%+ and U17 99.999995%+
HEPA-type filters are divided into EPA, HEPA and ULPA subgroups.
JThis is the H13 or H14 class filter. These filters are characterised by very high effectiveness in terms of air pollution elimination however at the expense of significant resistance. The HEPA filters are used both in the industrial laboratories and in operating rooms which require the highest air sterility. Unfortunately, due to high airflow resistance these are unsuited for pollution masks, however used in air treatment systems, air conditioners, vacuum cleaners – i.e. in all cases when forced airflow is introduced.
This is the E10, E11 or E12 class filter. These filters feature slightly lower filtration effectiveness comparing to the HEPA filters however have much lower air resistance and similar effectiveness. To compare, effectiveness of EPA E12 filters is 99.5%, while of HEPA H13 – 99.95%. Significantly lower airflow resistance in EPA filters and therefore easier breathing and comfort of use is the key difference.
This marking is applied in the USA, where division of filter half masks is governed by the federal law 42 CFR Part 84). This classification does not comply with the European standards, involves different examination system and is not a basis for certification in the EU!
- Why BROYX VALVE V2 valves are fixed permanently in the BROYX 4P1 filter?
To provide the best tightness. The applied valve fixation system minimises leakage of untreated air between the valve and filtering insert. The presence of all types of gaps and holes results in suction of untreated air and drastically reduces the protection rate.