Overview
ISO 24660:2024 specifies a uniform laboratory method to determine the airflow propelled through an open personnel door by a positive pressure ventilator (PPV). The standard targets aerodynamic performance metrics - airflow rate, static pressure, air density and impeller speed - for laboratory performance rating or guarantee purposes. It focuses on a controlled test configuration (including an outlet test chamber and multi-nozzle flow measurement) and references measurement practices from ISO 5801, but is not a design, production or field-test procedure for PPVs nor a construction/validation manual for test facilities.
Key Topics and Requirements
- Scope and intent: Laboratory determination of PPV airflow through an open personnel door; applies only to equipment intended for positive pressure ventilation.
- Test setup: Defined PPV positioning (including setback, height and tilt) relative to a doorway and an outlet test chamber; doorway dimensions in the standard example are 1.90 m height × 0.98 m width.
- Measurement systems:
- PPV static pressure must be measured with a transducer having accuracy ≤ 0.5% (manufacturer stated).
- Flow measurement is via a multi-nozzle chamber meeting ISO 5801 requirements.
- Instrumentation calibration: annual, with certificates traceable to international standards.
- Alternative pressure systems allowed only if combined uncertainty does not exceed that of appropriate manometer/static-tap combinations; contribution to combined uncertainty limited to specified percentages (see standard).
- Test procedures: Sequences for carrying out tests, including determinations at various operating points, internal combustion engine vs motorized speeds, battery-powered PPV tests, and exhaust venting considerations.
- Calculations and results: Methods to compute PPV volume flow rate, static pressure as a function of flow, and free-delivery flow rate; requirements for reporting test results and performance curves.
- Safety and clearances: Minimum clearances around the PPV (e.g., at least 2 impeller diameters behind and to the sides; ceiling clearance of 4 diameters or 3 m, whichever is greater) and adherence to guarding and safety standards.
Applications and Who Uses It
ISO 24660:2024 is practical for:
- Test laboratories performing certified PPV performance evaluations
- Manufacturers seeking consistent laboratory performance ratings and guarantees
- Procurement and certification bodies that require standardized airflow data for PPVs used by emergency services
- Fire service equipment evaluators and consultants assessing PPV suitability for smoke control and ventilation scenarios
- R&D and product engineers validating aerodynamic behavior in controlled conditions
The standard helps ensure consistent, reproducible airflow and pressure measurements for PPVs used principally by firefighters for smoke mitigation.
Related Standards
- ISO 5801:2017 - Fans: performance testing using standardized airways (referenced for measurement subclauses)
- ISO 12499 - Industrial fans: mechanical safety of fans - guarding
- ISO 45001 - Occupational health and safety management systems
- IEC and battery guidance (IEC 61960-3 referenced for nominal battery voltage)
Keywords: ISO 24660:2024, positive pressure ventilator, PPV airflow, PPV static pressure, laboratory test method, fan performance, ISO 5801.