USEPA Method 17

Testing Overview
Testing Services
Personnel
Equipment
Industries Served
Test Methods
Pollutants
Sources
Training
Oversight
Technical Procedures
Technical Questions
Safety
Quality

Determination of Particulate Matter Emissions from Stationary Sources – USEPA Method 17

USEPA Method 17 is used to determine particulate matter (PM) emissions, where PM concentrations are known to be independent oftemperature over the normal range of temperatures characteristic of emissions from a specified source category. Particulate matter is withdrawn isokinetically from the source and collected on a glass fiber filter maintained at stack temperature. The PM mass is determined gravimetrically after the removal of uncombined water.

Particulate matter is not an absolute quantity. It is a function of temperature and pressure. Therefore, to prevent variability in PM emission regulations and/or associated test methods, the temperature and pressure at which PM is measured must be carefully defined. Of the two variables (i.e., temperature and pressure), temperature has the greater effect upon the amount of PM in an effluent gas stream; in most stationary source categories, the effect of pressure appears to be negligible. In Method 5, 120 °C (248 °F) is established as a nominal reference temperature. Thus, where Method 5 is specified in an applicable subpart of the standard, PM is defined with respect to temperature. In order to maintain a collection temperature of 120 °C (248 °F), Method 5 employs a heated glass sample probe and a heated filter holder. This equipment is somewhat cumbersome and requires care in its operation. Therefore, where PM concentrations (over the normal range of temperature associated with a specified source category) are known to be independent of temperature, it is desirable to eliminate the glass probe and the heating systems, and to sample at stack temperature.

USEPA Method 17 is intended to be used only when specified by an applicable subpart of the standards, and only within the applicable temperature limits (if specified), or when otherwise approved by the Administrator. This method is not applicable to stacks that contain liquid droplets or are saturated with water vapor. In addition, this method is not be used if the projected cross-sectional area of the probe extension-filter holder assembly covers more than 5 percent of the stack cross-sectional area.

To Speak To A Sales Representative Call 800-627-0033

Last Update: October 25, 2006