Particle Counter Equipment for Rent or Purchase

Particle counters measure airborne particle concentrations by size, giving you real-time data for cleanroom classification, filtration verification, indoor air quality investigations, and contamination troubleshooting. Use an optical particle counter like the TSI AeroTrak 9306 for multi-channel counts (0.3 to 10 µm) in controlled environments, or a TSI DustTrak DRX (8533 desktop, 8534 handheld) for simultaneous PM1, PM2.5, PM4, PM10, and Total PM mass concentration readings on jobsites and in buildings. For personal exposure monitoring, the TSI SidePak AM520 clips to a worker and logs breathing-zone dust, fume, and diesel particulate matter (DPM) levels over a full shift, with an intrinsically safe AM520i option for hazardous atmospheres. The TSI P-TRAK 8525 targets ultrafine particles (0.02 to 1 µm) to trace combustion sources and filter leaks that conventional monitors miss. Every kit ships with accessories, software, and documentation, and our team can help you select the right instrument and sampling plan for your environment.

Which instrument should I rent: AeroTrak 9306, DustTrak 8533, DustTrak 8534, SidePak AM520, or P-Trak 8525?

Rent the AeroTrak 9306 when the job needs optical particle counts by size for cleanroom or controlled-environment work. Rent the DustTrak 8533 or 8534 when you need PM mass concentration for building, construction, or troubleshooting work. Rent the SidePak AM520 when you need personal PM mass concentration worn by an individual. Rent the P-Trak 8525 when you're chasing ultrafine particle sources that conventional particulate tools can miss.

Can I use a particle counter to check filtration or HVAC performance?

Yes — particle counters are one of the primary tools for filter efficiency testing and HVAC cleanliness verification. Count particles by size upstream and downstream of a filter to calculate efficiency, or use the instrument to verify that a space meets cleanliness standards after filter changes or system maintenance.

What should I confirm before renting a particulate instrument?

Confirm the particle size fraction you need (PM1, PM2.5, PM10, TSP), whether you need mass concentration or particle counts, the environment (indoor, outdoor, high-dust), any required standards or permits, and whether you need datalogging with export capability.

When is logging more valuable than spot checks?

Logging is more valuable when you need to capture variability over time, document exposure patterns across a shift, identify peaks during specific tasks, or build a defensible record for a report or regulatory review. Spot checks are fine for a quick go/no-go assessment when conditions are stable and documentation isn't the goal.

What's the first decision in particulate work: particle counts, mass concentration, personal exposure, or ultrafine tracking?

Start by defining your regulatory or health basis. OSHA PELs and NIOSH RELs are mass-based (mg/m³)—use mass concentration or personal gravimetric sampling for compliance. Particle counts (number concentration) are used for cleanroom qualification, HVAC filtration efficiency, and some health research. Ultrafine particle (UFP) tracking is relevant for combustion source health research and some occupational settings. Personal exposure is required when you need to document what an individual worker actually breathes.