Choosing the right filter cartridge is just as important as selecting the right mask. A good mask without a proper filter offers little to no protection. In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to select the correct filter cartridge based on your working environment, hazard type, and mask compatibility.
1. Understand What You’re Protecting Against
The first step is to identify the type of contaminant you’re exposed to. Filters are designed to protect against specific hazards:
| Filter Type | Protection Against | Common Color Code |
|---|---|---|
| A | Organic gases/vapors (boiling point >65°C) | Brown |
| B | Inorganic gases/vapors (excluding CO) | Grey |
| E | Acid gases (e.g., SO₂, HCl) | Yellow |
| K | Ammonia and amine gases | Green |
| P | Particles (dust, fumes, mists) | White |
Sometimes, a combination filter is needed, such as A2P3 or ABEK1P3, especially in complex industrial settings.
2. Know the Filter Class: 1, 2, or 3?
Gas/vapor filters come in three capacity levels:
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Class 1 – Low capacity (shorter usage time)
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Class 2 – Medium capacity
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Class 3 – High capacity (for prolonged exposure)
For example, A1 vs A2: both filter organic vapors, but A2 lasts longer.
Particle filters follow this classification:
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P1 – Low efficiency
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P2 – Medium efficiency
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P3 – High efficiency (e.g., toxic dust, bacteria)
3. Match the Filter with Your Mask Type
Not all filters fit all masks. Check:
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The connection type: Most reusable masks follow EN 148-1 (standard thread), but some use bayonet connectors.
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Whether the filter is compatible with your half mask or full-face respirator (EN 140 or EN 136).
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For high concentrations of hazardous gas, full-face masks with P3 filters or combined ABEK filters are recommended.
4. Check Local Regulations and Certification
Make sure your chosen filter cartridge:
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Is CE certified
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Complies with EN 14387 (for gas/vapor filters) and EN 143 (for particle filters)
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Comes with a valid Declaration of Conformity
5. Don’t Forget: Filter Service Life
Filter cartridges do not last forever. Their service life depends on:
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Concentration of contaminants
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Breathing rate
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Humidity and temperature
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Storage conditions
Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines and change filters before saturation or breathing resistance increases.
CHEAMY Tip: When in Doubt, Use Combined Filters
When unsure about the specific gas or in mixed exposure environments, use ABEKP3 filters, offering multi-gas and particle protection. It’s a safer choice for many industrial applications.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right filter cartridge isn’t just about safety—it’s about survival in hazardous environments. As a PPE supplier, CHEAMY offers a full range of EN 14387-certified filter cartridges, matched with reusable half and full-face masks, ensuring reliable protection and easy compatibility.
Need Help Choosing the Right Filter?
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