Laser Dust Particle Counter CLJ-2803
Precision laser particle counter providing real-time 8-channel particle size analysis from 0.3-10 μm for cleanroom classification and air quality monitoring applications.
Louise Corscadden, PhD
Director of Science · ConductScience
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The Laser Dust Particle Counter CLJ-2803 is a precision air quality monitoring instrument designed for real-time particle concentration measurements in controlled environments. Utilizing laser light scattering technology, this system provides simultaneous particle size analysis across eight channels from 0.3 to 10 micrometers, enabling comprehensive assessment of airborne particulate contamination in cleanrooms, laboratories, and controlled manufacturing environments.
With a sampling flow rate of 28.3 L/min (1 CFM), the CLJ-2803 delivers rapid data acquisition suitable for ISO 5-8 cleanroom classification and continuous environmental monitoring. The instrument features multiple communication interfaces (USB, RS485, Ethernet) for seamless integration with facility monitoring systems and data logging protocols. The robust stainless steel construction and >30,000-hour laser lifetime ensure reliable operation in demanding research and industrial applications.
Applications & Use Cases
- Environmental Monitoring: Continuous assessment of laboratory air quality to maintain controlled research environments and prevent contamination of sensitive experiments.
- Toxicology: Monitoring inhalation chamber air quality during aerosol exposure studies to ensure precise particulate dose delivery and environmental control.
- Neuroscience: Validating cleanroom conditions in sterile surgical preparation areas for in vivo procedures and maintaining particle-free environments during sensitive neural recordings.
- Cell Biology: Ensuring ISO-class air quality in laminar flow hoods and cleanrooms used for cell culture and sterile tissue processing.
- Histopathology: Monitoring air quality in tissue processing areas to prevent particulate contamination of histological samples and microscopy preparations.
- Cancer Research: Maintaining controlled air environments in cell culture facilities and sterile preparation areas for cancer cell line maintenance and experimental procedures.
How It Works
The CLJ-2803 employs laser light scattering photometry to detect and size airborne particles. A diode laser illuminates particles as they pass through a precisely defined sensing volume within the optical chamber. When particles interact with the laser beam, they scatter light at intensities proportional to their size, following Mie scattering theory for spherical particles.
Scattered light is collected by a photodetector and converted to electrical pulses, with pulse height corresponding to particle size. The instrument's eight-channel pulse height analyzer simultaneously categorizes particles into discrete size ranges (0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 1, 2, 3, 5, and 10 μm), providing real-time particle size distribution data. A precision flow control system maintains the 28.3 L/min sampling rate, ensuring accurate volumetric measurements and enabling direct calculation of particle concentrations per cubic meter.
Digital signal processing algorithms eliminate noise and coincidence errors while the long-life laser diode (>30,000 hours) ensures measurement stability over extended monitoring periods. Data output through multiple communication protocols enables integration with building management systems and automated data logging.
Features & Benefits
- Eight-channel particle sizing (0.3-10 μm) — Simultaneous monitoring across multiple size ranges enables comprehensive particle size distribution analysis and ISO cleanroom classification
- 28.3 L/min (1 CFM) sampling flow rate — High volume sampling provides statistically significant particle counts for accurate concentration measurements and rapid response to contamination events
- Multiple communication interfaces — USB, RS485, and Ethernet connectivity enables flexible integration with existing facility monitoring systems and real-time data logging
- Long-life laser diode (>30,000 hours) — Extended operational lifetime reduces maintenance requirements and ensures measurement consistency over multi-year monitoring campaigns
- Stainless steel construction — Chemical-resistant housing suitable for harsh laboratory environments and easy decontamination protocols
- ISO 5-8 measurement range — Covers the full spectrum of controlled environment classifications from ultra-clean to general laboratory conditions
- Compact desktop design (220x350x260mm) — Space-efficient form factor allows placement directly at critical monitoring points or integration into mobile sampling systems
- Real-time data output — Continuous monitoring capability enables immediate detection of contamination events and automated alarm systems
Technical Specifications
The CLJ-2803 provides precision particle monitoring with 0.3-10 μm size discrimination across eight channels and a 28.3 L/min sampling flow rate. The system operates on 220V AC power (110V optional) with 150W power consumption, suitable for continuous operation in laboratory environments. Communication flexibility is provided through USB, RS485, and Ethernet interfaces for seamless data integration.
The compact stainless steel housing (220x350x260mm, 14kg) accommodates desktop installation while the >30,000-hour laser lifetime ensures long-term measurement stability. The instrument's measurement range covers ISO 5-8 cleanroom classifications, enabling compliance monitoring across a wide range of controlled environment applications.
Setup & Operation
- Unpack and Inspect: Remove the CLJ-2803 from packaging and inspect for shipping damage. Verify all components are present and the laser window is clean and undamaged.
- Position and Connect: Place the unit on a stable, vibration-free surface away from direct airflow. Connect the sampling tube and establish power connection using the appropriate voltage setting.
- System Initialization: Power on the unit and allow 10-minute warm-up period for laser stabilization. Verify all particle channels display zero counts in clean air conditions.
- Communication Setup: Configure desired communication interface (USB, RS485, or Ethernet) and establish connection with monitoring software or data acquisition system.
- Baseline Verification: Perform zero count verification by sampling through a HEPA filter to confirm proper optical alignment and system cleanliness.
- Sampling Point Setup: Install the sampling probe at the designated monitoring location, ensuring representative air sampling and appropriate tube length (typically <2 meters).
- Data Collection Start: Begin monitoring protocol with appropriate sampling intervals and duration based on cleanroom classification requirements or experimental protocols.
Compliance & Standards
- ISO 14644-1: Primary standard for cleanroom particle classification that this instrument directly supports through appropriate particle size channels and counting efficiency
- ISO 21501-4: International standard for light scattering airborne particle counters that defines performance requirements typical for this instrument class
- JIS B 9921: Japanese industrial standard for particle counters specifying calibration and performance verification procedures applicable to this instrument type
- Fed Std 209E: Historical U.S. federal standard for cleanroom particle limits that this instrument can assess, though superseded by ISO 14644 series
What's in the Box
- CLJ-2803 main unit
- Power adapter with region-appropriate plug
- Sampling tube assembly (typical)
- USB communication cable (typical)
- User manual and operation guide
- Calibration certificate (typical)
- Software CD or download access (typical)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the minimum detectable particle concentration for each size channel?
A: Minimum detectable concentration depends on sampling time and statistical requirements. For 1-minute sampling at 28.3 L/min, the instrument can reliably detect concentrations as low as 1-2 particles per cubic foot for larger particles (>1 μm), with detection limits higher for smaller particles due to counting efficiency variations.
Q: How frequently does the laser require calibration and what standards are used?
A: Annual calibration is typically recommended using PSL (polystyrene latex) microsphere standards traceable to NIST. The >30,000-hour laser life indicates minimal drift, but regular verification with known particle standards ensures measurement accuracy for compliance applications.
Q: Can the instrument differentiate between viable and non-viable particles?
A: No, this is an optical particle counter that measures total particle concentration regardless of viability. It detects all particles within the size range based on light scattering properties, not biological activity. For viable particle assessment, separate air sampling onto growth media is required.
Q: What is the maximum sampling tube length without affecting accuracy?
A: Sampling tube length should typically not exceed 2 meters to minimize particle losses due to settling and impaction. For longer distances, larger diameter tubing and consideration of particle loss corrections may be necessary, particularly for particles >5 μm.
Q: How does ambient humidity affect particle counting accuracy?
A: Relative humidity between 45-65% provides optimal counting conditions. Very low humidity (80%) may cause hygroscopic particle growth, potentially shifting particles to larger size channels.
Q: What data output formats are available for integration with LIMS systems?
A: The instrument provides digital output through USB, RS485, and Ethernet interfaces. Data formats typically include CSV for direct analysis, and many units support Modbus or similar protocols for building management system integration. Consult product datasheet for specific data formatting options.
Q: Can the instrument operate continuously for long-term monitoring studies?
A: Yes, the 150W power consumption and >30,000-hour laser life support continuous operation. However, regular maintenance including optical chamber cleaning and flow rate verification is recommended every 6 months for optimal performance in extended monitoring applications.
Q: How does this compare to condensation particle counters for ultrafine particle detection?
A: This optical counter is limited to particles ≥0.3 μm, while condensation particle counters can detect particles down to ~10 nm. For research requiring ultrafine particle assessment (<0.1 μm), a condensation particle counter would be more appropriate, though optical counters provide better size resolution in the measurable range.
Warranty & Support
ConductScience provides a standard one-year manufacturer warranty covering parts and labor, with comprehensive technical support for setup, calibration guidance, and troubleshooting assistance.
How It Works
The CLJ-2803 employs laser light scattering photometry to detect and size airborne particles. A diode laser illuminates particles as they pass through a precisely defined sensing volume within the optical chamber. When particles interact with the laser beam, they scatter light at intensities proportional to their size, following Mie scattering theory for spherical particles.
Scattered light is collected by a photodetector and converted to electrical pulses, with pulse height corresponding to particle size. The instrument's eight-channel pulse height analyzer simultaneously categorizes particles into discrete size ranges (0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 1, 2, 3, 5, and 10 μm), providing real-time particle size distribution data. A precision flow control system maintains the 28.3 L/min sampling rate, ensuring accurate volumetric measurements and enabling direct calculation of particle concentrations per cubic meter.
Digital signal processing algorithms eliminate noise and coincidence errors while the long-life laser diode (>30,000 hours) ensures measurement stability over extended monitoring periods. Data output through multiple communication protocols enables integration with building management systems and automated data logging.
Features & Benefits
Sampling Volume
- 28.3L/min (1cfm/min)
Particle Size Channels
- 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 1, 2, 3, 5, 10 um
Cleanliness Range
- ISO5-ISO8
Research Domain
- Environmental Monitoring
- Neuroscience
- Toxicology
Model
- CLJ-2803
Communication
- USB, RS485, Ethernet
Laser Life
- >30,000 hours
Automation Level
- semi-automated
Brand
- ConductScience
Power/Voltage
- AC220V/50-60Hz (AC110V optional)
Material
- Stainless Steel
Dimensions
- 220x350x260mm
Weight
- 14.0 kg
Dimensions
- L: 35.0 mm
- W: 22.0 mm
- H: 26.0 mm
Setup Guide
What’s in the Box
- CLJ-2803 main unit
- Power adapter with region-appropriate plug
- Sampling tube assembly (typical)
- USB communication cable (typical)
- User manual and operation guide
- Calibration certificate (typical)
- Software CD or download access (typical)
Warranty
ConductScience provides a standard one-year manufacturer warranty covering parts and labor, with comprehensive technical support for setup, calibration guidance, and troubleshooting assistance.
Compliance
What is the minimum detectable particle concentration for each size channel?
Minimum detectable concentration depends on sampling time and statistical requirements. For 1-minute sampling at 28.3 L/min, the instrument can reliably detect concentrations as low as 1-2 particles per cubic foot for larger particles (>1 μm), with detection limits higher for smaller particles due to counting efficiency variations.
How frequently does the laser require calibration and what standards are used?
Annual calibration is typically recommended using PSL (polystyrene latex) microsphere standards traceable to NIST. The >30,000-hour laser life indicates minimal drift, but regular verification with known particle standards ensures measurement accuracy for compliance applications.
Can the instrument differentiate between viable and non-viable particles?
No, this is an optical particle counter that measures total particle concentration regardless of viability. It detects all particles within the size range based on light scattering properties, not biological activity. For viable particle assessment, separate air sampling onto growth media is required.
What is the maximum sampling tube length without affecting accuracy?
Sampling tube length should typically not exceed 2 meters to minimize particle losses due to settling and impaction. For longer distances, larger diameter tubing and consideration of particle loss corrections may be necessary, particularly for particles >5 μm.
How does ambient humidity affect particle counting accuracy?
Relative humidity between 45-65% provides optimal counting conditions. Very low humidity (<20%) can cause electrostatic particle losses in tubing, while high humidity (>80%) may cause hygroscopic particle growth, potentially shifting particles to larger size channels.
What data output formats are available for integration with LIMS systems?
The instrument provides digital output through USB, RS485, and Ethernet interfaces. Data formats typically include CSV for direct analysis, and many units support Modbus or similar protocols for building management system integration. Consult product datasheet for specific data formatting options.
Can the instrument operate continuously for long-term monitoring studies?
Yes, the 150W power consumption and >30,000-hour laser life support continuous operation. However, regular maintenance including optical chamber cleaning and flow rate verification is recommended every 6 months for optimal performance in extended monitoring applications.
How does this compare to condensation particle counters for ultrafine particle detection?
This optical counter is limited to particles ≥0.3 μm, while condensation particle counters can detect particles down to ~10 nm. For research requiring ultrafine particle assessment (<0.1 μm), a condensation particle counter would be more appropriate, though optical counters provide better size resolution in the measurable range.
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