Met One E-FRM-DC: US-EPA Reference Method Particulate Sampler

The Regulatory Benchmark for Ambient Air Quality Compliance

The Met One E-FRM-DC sets the standard for regulatory compliance in particulate matter monitoring. As a US-EPA designated Federal Reference Method (FRM) sampler, this instrument provides the definitive gravimetric data required for air quality network validation, compliance reporting, and legal defensibility.

Engineered for both fixed network stations and rapid deployment audits, the E-FRM-DC modernizes the traditional "single-event" sampling workflow. It combines the rigorous flow control precision demanded by regulatory agencies with a state-of-the-art touchscreen interface and flexible data connectivity. Whether used as a primary reporting tool or as an audit sampler to verify continuous monitors, the E-FRM-DC delivers the metrological certainty essential for environmental professionals.

Key Benefits

• Definitive Regulatory Compliance:

  Designed to meet strict US-EPA requirements for the collection of PM2.5, PM10, and PM10-2.5. The data produced by the E-FRM-DC serves as the "Gold Standard" against which real-time optical monitors are calibrated and validated.

• Versatile Deployment (Stationary or Portable):

  Unlike bulky legacy samplers, the compact and modular design of the E-FRM-DC allows it to function equally well as a permanent reference station or as a portable audit unit. It is easily transported to field sites for "hot-spot" analysis or network quality assurance (QA) checks.

• Intuitive Modern Interface:

  Gone are the days of complex cryptic codes. The unit features a bright, full-color 4.3” graphical touchscreen that guides technicians through setup, calibration, and data retrieval, significantly reducing operator error and training time.

• Seamless Data Management:

  Sampling data—including flow rates, ambient conditions, and run times—can be downloaded instantly via USB flash drive or retrieved through standard serial data acquisition systems (DAS), ensuring secure chain-of-custody for your compliance records.

Technical Overview

The E-FRM-DC operates on the principle of Gravimetric Sampling, the fundamental reference technique for measuring particulate mass concentration.

Precision Flow Control:

The core of the E-FRM-DC is its advanced volumetric flow control system. It maintains a constant, precise flow rate (typically 16.7 LPM) through a specific size-selective inlet (PM10 or PM2.5). This ensures that the particle size cut-point remains accurate regardless of changes in temperature, pressure, or filter loading.

Single-Event Sampling:

The system is designed for "single-event" sampling cycles (typically 24 hours). It collects particulate matter onto a 47mm filter (Teflon or Quartz, depending on analysis needs). Once the sampling period is complete, the filter is retrieved for laboratory weighing and chemical speciation.

Modular Configuration:

The instrument’s inlet system is fully modular. While standard configurations support PM2.5 and PM10 regulatory monitoring, optional adaptors allow for TSP (Total Suspended Particulates) and PM1 sampling, making it a flexible tool for research and industrial hygiene applications.

Typical Use Cases

• National Air Quality Networks: Primary compliance monitoring to demonstrate adherence to National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS).

• Reference Method Auditing: Co-locating with real-time optical monitors (like BAMs or light-scattering devices) to calculate localized calibration factors and verify accuracy.

• Source Apportionment Studies: Collecting physical samples for subsequent laboratory chemical analysis (metals, ions, carbon) to identify pollution sources.

• Remediation & Fenceline Monitoring: Providing legally defensible 24-hour average concentrations for construction sites, mines, or industrial facility perimeters.

Why Choose This Sampler?

In an era of low-cost sensors and real-time optical gadgets, the Met One E-FRM-DC remains the authority. When environmental decisions have legal or financial consequences, "estimated" data is not enough. You need the physical sample and the Reference Method designation. The E-FRM-DC offers this unquestioned accuracy without the operational complexity of older mechanical systems. It is the perfect bridge between strict regulatory science and modern field usability.

Brand & Specifications

• Measured Components:

  Particulate Matter Mass (PM2.5, PM10).

  Optional: TSP, PM1.

  Note: Provides physical sample for gravimetric mass and chemical analysis.

• Applications:

  Regulatory compliance (US-EPA), Network QA/Auditing, Chemical Speciation, Industrial Perimeter Monitoring.

• Certifications:

  US-EPA Federal Reference Method (FRM) designations (Designation numbers depend on inlet configuration, e.g., RFPS, RFPH series).

• Measurement Principle:

  Gravimetric Filter Sampling (Volumetric flow controlled collection on 47mm media).