Efficient HVAC solutions for clinics and hospitals – saving cost, protecting wellbeing

It all began in the early 1800s. John and Charles Dean created an air purification helmet to help firefighters breathe inside smoky buildings. It was a time when industrialization was fuelling massive air pollution, and their simple but ingenious design was the first step towards protecting human health from airborne contaminants and the foundation for air filtration as we know it. For more than 80 years, MANN+HUMMEL has continued this legacy through innovative filtration solutions that protect people in cities, hospitals, healthcare facilities, and other industries.

Originally developed as part of the Manhattan Project during WWII, HEPA filters have now become inextricably linked with highly purified air. Perhaps none more so than in healthcare settings, where HEPA filters have been preventing the spread of viruses like tuberculosis and influenza since the 1960s. Of course, the first HEPA filters were not comparable with today's filters, but development picked up speed. One quality feature of today's "real" HEPA filters is the EN 1822 certification. This standard ensures today that filter manufacturers individually test their filters to strict guidelines, so the user can truly rely on the function.

The rise of pharmaceutical and biotechnology in the mid-20th century demanded exceptionally clean environments to ensure that product quality was not compromised and that researchers could work with harmful contaminants without the risk of a breakout. This is how HEPA filters became an essential part of important breakthroughs in medical and drug science. It was around this time that CR- and N-Cell filters were first launched by a company which successor later became part of MANN+HUMMEL. It has gone through many revisions as filter technology has progressed, but our Nanoclass Cube N filter can trace its heritage back to that very first N-Cell. Of course, our HEPA filters always met all relevant current standards.

The proliferation of HEPA filters in the previous years helped advance the safety of surgical procedures dramatically. Today, these environments are maintained with sophisticated laminar flow (LTF) ceiling systems that go beyond just creating a sterile environment, to provide a space that enables the surgical team to perform at its best – providing low turbulence air flows and the ability to integrate other OR equipment, such as lights and diagnostic equipment. MANN+HUMMEL is the largest and most experienced supplier of sterile air systems in clinical settings – completing projects with standard solutions and customised products all over the world.

The number of helicopter rescue missions has been steadily increasing since the end of the last century and with it the amount of exhaust fumes entering hospital corridors and rooms. Molecular filters, which were originally developed in the 1940s for water treatment, evolved to address air quality needs at this time. By removing gaseous contaminants, including harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs), activated carbon filters have played a crucial role in hospitals where cleaning agents are used extensively and exhaust fumes from rescue helicopters and other traffic enter the building. MANN+HUMMEL is a specialist in the production of filters for all kinds of molecular applications. With nearly 50 years of experience in molecular filtration, we are the perfect partner for ensuring a safe, hygienic environment for your patients and staff.

Although many filter technologies have been around for some time, innovation has continued apace. Developments such as MANN+HUMMEL’s Eco-Filter series – that reduces pressure drop significantly compared to conventional air filters – offer new ways for hospitals to save cost, reduce energy consumption and achieve sustainability goals. Digital tools, such as our BREEZE program – which identifies the ideal, customised filter solution for your application – are also driving a new wave of data-driven innovation. We will continue to develop new solutions that enhance air quality, reduce hospital costs and create safer spaces for all.