§ 53.55 Test for effect of variations in power line voltage and ambient temperature.

(a) Overview. (1) This test procedure is a combined procedure to test various performance parameters under variations in power line voltage and ambient temperature. Tests shall be conducted in a temperature-controlled environment over four 6-hour time periods during which reference temperature and flow rate measurements shall be made at intervals not to exceed 5 minutes. Specific parameters to be evaluated at line voltages of 105 and 125 volts and temperatures of −20 °C and + 40 °C are as follows:

(i) Sample flow rate.

(ii) Flow rate regulation.

(iii) Flow rate measurement accuracy.

(iv) Coefficient of variability measurement accuracy.

(v) Ambient air temperature measurement accuracy.

(vi) Proper operation of the sampler when exposed to power line voltage and ambient temperature extremes.

(2) The performance parameters tested under this procedure, the corresponding minimum performance specifications, and the applicable test conditions are summarized in table E–1 of this subpart. Each performance parameter tested, as described or determined in the test procedure, must meet or exceed the associated performance specification given. The candidate sampler must meet all specifications for the associated PM _2.5 or PM _10–2.5 method (as applicable) to pass this test procedure.

(b) Technical definition. Sample flow rate means the quantitative volumetric flow rate of the air stream caused by the sampler to enter the sampler inlet and pass through the sample filter, measured in actual volume units at the temperature and pressure of the air as it enters the inlet.

(c) Required test equipment. (1) Environmental chamber or other temperature-controlled environment or environments, capable of obtaining and maintaining temperatures at −20 °C and = 40 °C as required for the test with an accuracy of ±2 °C. The test environment(s) must be capable of maintaining these temperatures within the specified limits continuously with the additional heat load of the operating test sampler in the environment. Henceforth, where the test procedures specify a test or environmental “chamber,” an alternative temperature-controlled environmental area or areas may be substituted, provided the required test temperatures and all other test requirements are met.

(2) Variable voltage AC power transformer, range 100 Vac to 130 Vac, with sufficient current capacity to operate the test sampler continuously under the test conditions.