SKC Limited AirChek 3000 Deluxe Pump Step By Step Guide - Manual (Page 5)

www.skcltd.com 224-G1 Issue D Page 3
Types of Contaminant
There are three types of contaminant according to their physical properties:
• Particulates
• Vapours
• Gases
Particulates can be further subdivided into five types:
• Aerosols
• Dusts
• Fumes
• Smokes
• Mists
Contaminant Definitions
Aerosol Dispersion in air of solid particles of microscopic size.
Dust
Solid particulate capable of temporary suspension in air. Dusts are
usually derived from larger masses through the application of physical
force.
Fume
Solid particles produced by condensation from the gaseous phase.
Fumes are usually derived from the heating of a solid to its melting
point and the subsequent cooling of the gas produced.
Smoke
Particles resulting from the incomplete combustion of organic matter
consisting predominantly of carbon and oxides of carbon.
Mist
Dispersion in air of liquid droplets usually large enough to be seen by
the naked eye.
Vapour
Gaseous phase of a substance that usually exists as a liquid or solid at
normal room temperature and pressure.
Gas
A substance which does not normally exist as a liquid or solid at normal
room temperature and pressure.