Final answer:
A differential pressure gauge is used to indicate when the DHC of a filter, such as a HEPA filter, has been reached. This tool is crucial for ensuring the effectiveness of air filtration systems in various environments, including industrial and healthcare settings.
Step-by-step explanation:
A differential pressure gauge can show when Dirt Holding Capacity (DHC) of a filter has been reached. This device is essential for monitoring the performance of filtration systems, such as High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters, often used in both industrial and healthcare settings to ensure air quality. When the differential pressure reaches a certain threshold, it indicates that the filter has accumulated particles up to its dirt holding capacity and requires replacement or cleaning.
Regular monitoring with a differential pressure gauge can help maintain high standards of cleanliness and prevent the release of contaminants into the environment. For example, in settings where High-Pressure Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) is used, maintaining clean filters is crucial for the accuracy of results. In the healthcare sector, particularly in rooms fitted with High-Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT), ensuring the HEPA filters are within their DHC is critical to protect patients and equipment from airborne contaminants.