ANSI/AMCA

Standard 220-05
Laboratory Methods of Testing
Air Curtain Units for
Aerodynamic Performance Rating

An American National Standard

Approved by ANSI on June 7, 2005

AIR MOVEMENT AND CONTROL

ASSOCIATION INTERNATIONAL, INC.

The International Authority on Air System Components

 ANSI/AMCA STANDARD 220-05

Laboratory Methods of Testing Air Curtain Units

for Aerodynamic Performance Rating

Air Movement and Control Association International, Inc.

30 West University Drive
Arlington Heights, IL 60004-1893
 © 2007 by Air Movement and Control Association International, Inc.

All rights reserved. Reproduction or translation of any part of this work beyond that permitted by Sections 107 and
108 of the United States Copyright Act without the permission of the copyright owner is unlawful. Requests for
permission or further information should be addressed to the Executive Director, Air Movement and Control
Association International, Inc. at 30 West University Drive, Arlington Heights, IL 60004-1893 U.S.A.
Authority

This publication was approved by the AMCA International membership on 14 January 2001 and as an American
National Standard by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) on 7 June 2005. This edition of ANSI/AMCA
Standard 220 supersedes AMCA 220-91.

AMCA 220 Review Committee

David Johnson, Chair Berner International Corp.

James M. Jagers Alton

Michael Coscarelli* Berner International Corp.

Jack Peters** Loren Cook Co.

Vincent Vilarchao Marley Engineered Products

Dennis Neibrook* Marley Engineered Products

Frank Cuaderno Mars Sales Co., Inc.

Steve Rosol* Mars Sales Co., Inc.

Ken Lapinski Powered Aire, Inc.

Brian K. Jones* Powered Aire, Inc.

Paul Saxon AMCA International Staff

Joe Brooks AMCA International Staff

* Alternate Committee Member

** Corresponding Committee Member

Disclaimer

AMCA International uses its best efforts to produce standards for the benefit of the industry and the public in light
of available information and accepted industry practices. However, AMCA International does not guarantee, certify
or assure the safety or performance of any products, components or systems tested, designed, installed or
operated in accordance with AMCA International standards or that any tests conducted under its standards will be
non-hazardous or free from risk.
Objections to AMCA Standards and Certifications Programs

Air Movement and Control Association International, Inc. will consider and decide all written complaints regarding
its standards, certified ratings programs or interpretations thereof. For information on procedures for submitting
and handling complaints, write to:

Air Movement and Control Association International

30 West University Drive
Arlington Heights, IL 60004-1893 U.S.A.

or

AMCA International, Incorporated

c/o Federation of Environmental Trade Associations
2 Waltham Court, Milley Lane, Hare Hatch
Reading, Berkshire
RG10 9TH United Kingdom

Related AMCA Standards and Publications

AMCA Publication 11 Certified Ratings Program - Operating Manual

ANSI/AMCA Standard 210 Laboratory Methods of Testing Fans for Aerodynamic Performance Rating

AMCA Publication 211 Certified Ratings Program - Air Performance

Other AMCA Programs

AMCA Publication 111 Laboratory Accreditation Program

 TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

2. Normative References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

3. Definitions / Units of Measure / Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

3.1 Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

3.2 Systems of units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

3.3 Symbols and subscripted symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

4. Instruments and Methods of Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

4.1 Air curtain core velocity measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

4.2 Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

5. Equipment and Setups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

5.1 Air curtain airflow rate test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

5.2 Air velocity projection and outlet air velocity uniformity test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

6. Observation and Conduct of Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

6.1 Initial conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

6.2 Data to be recorded . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

7. Calculations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

7.1 Average outlet air velocity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

7.2 Outlet air velocity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

7.3 Air curtain velocity projection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

7.4 Air curtain unit efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

8. Report and Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

8.1 Outlet air velocity uniformity test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

8.2 Air velocity projection test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Annex A. Uncertainty in Velocity Determination Using Pitot-Static

Tube and Manometer (Informative) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Annex B. References (Informative) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

AMCA INTERNATIONAL, INC. ANSI/AMCA 220-05

Laboratory Methods of 3.1.2 Air curtain depth. The airstream dimension

perpendicular to both the direction of airflow and the
Testing Air Curtain Units for airstream width; the short dimension of the airstream.
Aerodynamic Performance 3.1.3 Air curtain width. The airstream dimension
Rating perpendicular to both the direction of airflow and the
airstream depth; the long dimension of the airstream.
1. Scope 3.1.4 Air curtain unit (ACU). An air moving device
which produces an air curtain.
The scope of this standard covers the performance
testing of air curtain units. 3.1.5 Air discharge nozzle. A component or an
assembly, which may include adjustable vanes, in the
The purpose of this standard is to establish uniform ACU which directs and controls the airstream.
methods for laboratory testing of air curtain units to
determine aerodynamic performance in terms of 3.1.6 Air discharge nozzle depth (Nd). The inside
airflow rate, outlet air velocity uniformity, power
dimension perpendicular to both the direction of
consumption, and air velocity projection, for rating or
airflow and the airstream width.
guarantee purposes.
3.1.7 Air discharge nozzle width (Nw). The inside
It is not the purpose of this standard to specify the
testing procedures to be used for design, production, dimension perpendicular to both the direction of
or field testing. airflow and the nozzle depth.

3.1.8 Air discharge angle (θ). The angle between

2. Normative References the plane of the protected opening and the direction
in which the air curtain leaves the discharge.
The following standard contains provisions which,
through reference in this text, constitute provisions of
3.1.9 Psychrometrics (from ANSI/AMCA 210)
this standard. At the time of publication, the edition
indicated was valid. All standards are subject to
3.1.9.1 Dry-bulb temperature (td). The air
revision, and parties to agreements based on this
standard are encouraged to investigate the possibility temperature measured by a dry temperature sensor.
of applying the most recent edition of the standard
indicated below. 3.1.9.2 Wet-bulb temperature (tw). The temperature
measured by a temperature sensor covered by a
ANSI/AMCA 210-99 Laboratory Methods of Testing water-moistened wick and exposed to air in motion.
Fans for Aerodynamic Performance Rating, Air When properly measured, it is a close approximation
Movement and Control Association International, of the temperature of adiabatic saturation.
Inc., Arlington Heights, IL 60004 U.S.A., 1999.
3.1.9.3 Wet-bulb depression. The difference
between the dry-bulb and wet-bulb temperatures at
3. Definitions / Units of Measure / Symbols the same location.

3.1 Definitions 3.1.9.4 Stagnation (total) temperature. Stagnation

(total) temperature is the temperature which exists by
3.1.1 Air curtain (airstream). A directionally- virtue of the internal and kinetic energy of the air. If
controlled airstream, moving across the entire height the air is at rest, the total temperature will equal the
and width of an opening, which reduces the static temperature.
infiltration or transfer of air from one side of the
opening to the other and/or inhibits insects, dust or 3.1.9.5 Static temperature. Static temperature is
debris from passing through. For the purposes of this the temperature which exists by virtue of the internal
standard, “air curtain” and “airstream” are energy of the air only. If a portion of the internal
synonymous. energy is converted into kinetic energy, the static
temperature will be decreased accordingly.

1
 ANSI/AMCA 220-05

3.1.9.6 Air density (ρ). Air density is the mass per 3.1.11.3 Outlet air velocity uniformity (U). An
unit volume of the air. indicator of the consistency of air velocities across
the air curtain width, expressed as a percentage.
3.1.9.7 Standard air. Air with a density of 1.2 kg/m3 Refer to Section 7.2.4 for calculation of the value.
(0.075 lbm/ft3), a ratio of specific heats of 1.4, a
viscosity of 1.8185 ×10-05 Pa·s (1.222 ×10-05 lbm/ft·s). 3.1.11.4 Air curtain core velocity (Vcx). The
Air at 20 °C (68 °F) temperature, 50% relative maximum air velocity of the air curtain at point X as
humidity, and 101.3207 kPa (29.92 in. Hg) barometric measured across both the air curtain depth and width
pressure has these properties, approximately. at specified distances from the discharge nozzle, per
Section 7.2.1.
3.1.10 Pressure and head
3.1.11.5 Air curtain average core velocity (Vca).
3.1.10.1 Pressure. Force per unit area. An average of air curtain core velocities measured
along the air curtain width, at specified distances per
3.1.10.2 Absolute pressure. The value of a Section 7.2.3.
pressure when the datum pressure is absolute zero.
It is always positive. 3.1.11.6 Air curtain velocity projection. A set of
average air curtain core velocities measured along
3.1.10.3 Barometric pressure (pb). The absolute the air curtain width at distances specified in Section
pressure exerted by the atmosphere. 6.2.4.4.

3.1.10.4 Gauge pressure. The value of a pressure 3.1.11.7 Power rating of the air curtain unit (W).
when the datum pressure is the barometric pressure The amount of energy, expressed in kW, consumed
at the point of measurement. It may be positive or by the drive motor(s) of the air curtain unit at free-air
negative. delivery.

3.1.10.5 Velocity pressure (Pv). The portion of the 3.1.11.8 Air curtain unit efficiency (ηac). The ratio
air pressure which exists by virtue of the rate of of the ACU air power to the power rating of the ACU.
motion only. It is always positive. This value is based upon total fan efficiency given in
ANSI/AMCA 210.
3.1.10.6 Static pressure. That portion of the air
pressure which exists by virtue of the degree of 3.1.11.9 Air curtain unit target distance. A distance
compression only. If expressed as gauge pressure, it perpendicular to the discharge nozzle depth in
may be positive or negative. meters (feet), determined by the sponsor of the test,
for the purpose of setting up the test.
3.1.10.7 Total pressure. The air pressure which
exists by virtue of the degree of compression and the 3.1.11.10 Air power. The useful power delivered to
rate of motion. It is the algebraic sum of the velocity the air. This is proportional to the product of the ACU
pressure and the static pressure at a point. Thus, if airflow rate and total pressure.
the air is at rest, the total pressure will equal the static
pressure. 3.1.12 Miscellaneous

3.1.10.8 Pressure loss. The decrease in total 3.1.12.1 Point of operation. The relative position on
pressure due to friction and turbulence. the air curtain performance curve corresponding to a
particular airflow rate, pressure, power and efficiency.
3.1.11 Air curtain unit performance variables
3.1.12.2 Free-air delivery. Free-air delivery is that
3.1.11.1 Unit airflow rate (volume) (Q). The airflow point of operation where the air curtain unit operates
volume which leaves the discharge nozzle, at against zero static pressure.
standard air conditions, as measured in accordance
with ANSI/AMCA 210, and reported in m3/s (cfm). 3.1.12.3 Determination. A determination is a
complete set of measurements for a particular point
3.1.11.2 Average outlet air velocity (Va). The of operation for the parameter being determined.
airflow rate produced by the air curtain unit divided by
3.1.12.4 Test. A series of determinations of various
the cross sectional area of the discharge nozzle
characteristics at a single point of operation of an air
plane at free-air delivery. Refer to Section 7.1 for
curtain unit.
calculation of the value.

2
 ANSI/AMCA 220-05

3.2 System of units 3.2.4 Power, energy, and torque. The unit of power
is the watt (W); the I-P unit is the horsepower (hp).
SI units (The International System of Units - Le The unit of energy is the joule (J); the I-P unit is the
Systéme International d’Unités) [1] are the primary foot-pound (ft lb). The unit of torque is the Newton-
units employed in this standard, with I-P units given meter (N·m); the I-P unit is the pound-inch (lb in.).
as the secondary reference. SI units are based on
the fundamental values of the International Bureau of 3.2.5 Efficiency. Efficiency is expressed on a per-
Weights and Measures [1], and I-P values are based unit basis. Percentage values can be obtained by
on the values of the National Institute of Standards multiplying by 100.
and Technology that are, in turn, based upon the
values of the International Bureau. 3.2.6 Rotational speed. There is no unit of rotational
speed as-such in the SI system of units. The
3.2.1 Basic units. The unit of length is the meter (m) commonly used unit in both systems is the revolution
or millimeter (mm); I-P units are the foot (ft) or inch per minute (rpm).
(in.). The unit of mass is the kilogram (kg); the I-P
unit is the pound-mass (lbm). The unit of time is either 3.2.7 Gas properties. The unit of density is the
the minute (min) or the second (s). The unit of kilogram per cubic meter (kg/m3); the I-P unit is the
temperature is either the Kelvin (K) or the degree pound-mass per cubic foot (lbm/ft3). The unit of
Celsius (°C); I-P units are the degree Rankine (°R) or viscosity is the Pascal second (Pa·s); the I-P unit is
the degree Fahrenheit (°F). The unit of force is the the pound-mass per foot-second (lbm/ft·s). The unit
Newton (N); the I-P unit is the pound force (lbf). of gas constant is the joule per kilogram kelvin
(J/kg·K); the I-P unit is the foot-pound per pound-
3.2.2 Airflow rate and velocity. The unit of airflow mass degree Rankine (ft·lb/lbm·°R).
rate is the cubic meter per second (m3/s); the I-P unit
is the cubic foot per minute (cfm). The unit of velocity 3.2.8 Dimensionless groups. Various dimensionless
is the meter per second (m/s); the I-P unit is the foot quantities appear in the text. Any consistent system
per minute (fpm). of units may be employed to evaluate these
quantities unless a numerical factor is included, in
3.2.3 Pressure. The unit of pressure is either the which case units must be as specified.
Pascal (Pa) or the millimeter of mercury (mm Hg); the
I-P unit is either the inch water gauge (in. wg), or the 3.2.9 Physical constants. The value of standard
inch mercury column (in. Hg). Values in millimeters gravitational acceleration shall be taken as 9.80665
of mercury or inches of mercury shall be used only for m/s2 at mean sea level at 45° latitude; the I-P value
barometric pressure measurements. The inch water is 32.1740 ft/s2 at mean sea level at 45° latitude [1].
gauge shall be based on a 1 inch column of distilled The density of distilled water at saturation pressure
water at 68 °F under standard gravity and a gas shall be taken as 998.278 kg/m3 at 20 °C; the I-P
column balancing effect based on standard air. The
value is 62.3205 lbm/ft3 68 °F [2]. The density of
millimeter of mercury shall be based on a 1 inch
mercury at saturation pressure shall be taken as
column of mercury at 0 °C under standard gravity in
vacuo. The inch of mercury shall be based on a 1 13595.1 kg/m3 at 0 °C; the I-P value is 848.714 lbm/ft3
inch column of mercury at 32 °F under standard at 32 °F [2]. The specific weights in kg/m3 (lbm/ft3) of
gravity in vacuo. these fluids in vacuo under standard gravity are
numerically equal to their densities at corresponding
temperatures.
3.3 Symbols and subscripted symbols

SYMBOL DESCRIPTION SI I-P

An Nozzle cross-sectional area m2 ft2

Ha Air power of air curtain unit W hp
Hm Power input to motor W hp
n Number of data points --- ---
N Air curtain unit speed rpm rpm
ηac Air curtain unit efficiency per unit per unit
ρ Air density kg/m3 lbm/ft3
Nd Air discharge nozzle depth mm inches
Nw Air discharge nozzle width mm inches
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 ANSI/AMCA 220-05

pb Barometric pressure Pa in. Hg

Pt Total pressure Pa in. Hg
Pv Velocity pressure Pa in. wg
Q Air curtain unit airflow rate m3/s cfm
s Standard deviation --- ---
θ Air discharge angle degrees degrees
td Dry-bulb temperature °C °F
tw Wet-bulb temperature °C °F
U Outlet air velocity uniformity % %
Va Velocity, average outlet m/s ft/s
Vcx Velocity, air curtain core, at point X m/s fpm
Vca Velocity, average (air curtain core) m/s fpm
W Power rating of the ACU Watt Watt

4. Instruments and Methods of Figure 1B. Units without an adjustable air discharge
Measurement nozzle are not required to be angled and shall be
mounted so that nothing interferes with the airstream
Instruments and methods of measurement shall be in for 3000 mm (120 in.).
compliance with ANSI/AMCA 210 except where
specifically noted. 6. Observations and Conduct of Tests

4.1 Air curtain core velocity measurement 6.1 Initial conditions

Air curtain core velocity shall be measured with a The unit under test shall be energized and operated
Pitot-static tube and manometer, a hot-wire for not less than one minute to allow equilibrium
anemometer, or any other device which has an conditions to become established before the first
accuracy of ±5.0% of the air velocity being measured. determination.
Refer to Section 6.2 for details.
6.2 Data to be recorded
4.2 Power
6.2.1 ACU Under test. The following information
Power shall be measured with a wattmeter having a shall be recorded: Manufacturer, trade name, model
certified accuracy of ± 1% of the observed reading. number, impeller diameter, inlet and outlet areas,
number of fans, number of motors and the motor
5. Equipment and Setups nameplate data.

6.2.2 Test setup. The description of the test setup

5.1 Air curtain airflow rate test
shall be recorded, including specific dimensions as
required per Figures 1, 2, 3 and 4. Alternately, an
The air curtain unit shall be mounted with its inlet
annotated photograph of the setup shall be attached
sealed to the test chamber in compliance with the
to the recorded data.
requirements of Figure 1A. The seal shall be
adequate enough to minimize leakage. The air
6.2.3 Instruments. The instruments and apparatus
discharge nozzle or adjustable vanes in the air
used in the test shall be listed. Names, model
discharge nozzle shall be set so as to provide a 15°
numbers, serial numbers, scale ranges, and
± 1° angle as shown in Figure 1B.
calibration information shall be recorded.
5.2 Air velocity projection and outlet air 6.2.4 Test data
velocity uniformity test
6.2.4.1 Initial and final conditions. Initial and final
The air curtain unit shall be placed in the testing area readings of: ambient dry-bulb temperature (td),
in compliance with the requirements of Figure 2 so ambient wet-bulb temperature (tw), and ambient
that the inlet and outlet are unrestricted and the air
barometric pressure (pb) shall be recorded for each
curtain width is perpendicular to the floor. The air
discharge nozzle or adjustable vanes in the air determination.
discharge nozzle shall be set so as to provide a 15°
6.2.4.2 Airflow rate determination. To establish the
± 1° air discharge angle as shown in Detail A or B of

4
 ANSI/AMCA 220-05

airflow rate at free-air delivery, a curve containing a For an ACU Target Distance of 1000 mm (40 inches),
minimum of three determinations is required per the air curtain core velocity shall be measured at
ANSI/AMCA 210. See Figures 1A and 1B. One Plane 1A [500 mm (20 in.)], Plane 2 [1000 mm (40
determination with the unit working against a in.)], and Plane 2A [1500 mm (60 in.)].
pressure of 50 Pa (0.2 in. wg), one determination
against a pressure of 25 Pa (0.1 in. wg) and one For Minimum Air Curtain Core Velocity Specified:
determination against a pressure of 2.5 Pa (0.01 in. The test shall be terminated upon measurement and
wg) or less. calculation of a value less than or equal to the
specified minimum average air curtain core velocity.
6.2.4.3 Outlet air velocity uniformity test. The
outlet air velocity uniformity test shall be based on air The first reading shall be taken at Plane 2 [1000 mm
curtain core velocity measurements taken on a (40 in.)]. If the reading is less than the minimum
minimum of five equally spaced test lines on Plane 1 specified average core velocity, readings shall be
located one air discharge nozzle depth away from, taken at Plane 1A [500 mm (20 in.)] and Plane 1
and parallel to, the air discharge nozzle width. The located Nd from the air discharge nozzle plane (See
test line locations at the two ends of the plane shall Figure 3) and the test concluded.
be one air discharge nozzle depth in from each end
as shown in Figure 3. The remaining test line If the first reading is greater than the minimum
locations shall be equally spaced and each space specified average core velocity, the second reading
shall not exceed 100 mm (4 in.). Record the shall be taken at Plane 3 [2000 mm (80 in.)]. If the
maximum air curtain core velocity readings along second reading is less than the minimum specified
each test line within the plane. average core velocity, the third reading shall be taken
at Plane 2A [1500 mm (60 in.)] and the test
6.2.4.4 Air curtain velocity projection test. concluded.
General: The air velocity projection test shall be
If the second reading is greater than the minimum
based on air curtain core velocity measurements
specified average core velocity, the third reading
taken on a minimum of three planes parallel to the
shall be taken at Plane 4 [3000 mm (120 in.)].
plane of the air discharge nozzle as shown in Figure
4. The air curtain core velocities shall be recorded on
If the third reading is still greater than the minimum
a minimum of five equally spaced test lines across
specified average core velocity, additional readings
each plane. The test line locations at the two ends of
shall be taken at 1000 mm (40 in.) intervals until the
each plane shall be located one air discharge nozzle
minimum core velocity is attained.
depth in from each end as shown in Figure 4. The
remaining test line locations shall be equally spaced
and each space shall not exceed 100 mm (4 in.).
7. Calculations
Record the maximum air curtain air core velocity
reading along the test lines within each plane. Calculations, except as noted below, shall be in
compliance with the requirements of Section 9,
The sponsor of the test shall determine the number of ANSI/AMCA 210.
test planes by specifying an ACU Target Distance, a
minimum average air curtain core velocity, or both. 7.1 Average outlet air velocity

For ACU Target Distance Specified. The ACU The average outlet air velocity shall be the unit
Target Distance shall be a minimum of 1000 mm (40 airflow rate divided by the cross-sectional area of the
in.), or whole multiples thereof. discharge nozzle plane or:

For an ACU Target Distance greater than or equal to Va = Q/An Eq. 7.1
3000 mm (120 in.), the air curtain core velocities shall
be measured at Plane 2 [1000 mm (40 in.)], Plane 3 7.2 Outlet air velocity
[2000 mm (80 in.)], and Plane 4 [3000 mm (120 in.)].
Additional readings shall be taken at consecutively 7.2.1 Air curtain core velocity (Vcx). The maximum
numbered planes located at 1000 mm (40 inch) air velocities of the airstream shall be obtained by
intervals until the ACU Target Distance is reached. traversing each test line x, as shown in Figure 3, and
recording each maximum reading using
For an ACU Target Distance of 2000 mm (80 in.), the instrumentation per Section 4.1. If velocity pressure
air curtain core velocity shall be measured at Plane 2 is measured via Pitot-static tube or other velocity
[1000 mm (40 in.)], Plane 2A [1500 mm (60 in.)], and pressure measuring device, use Equation 7.2.1 to
Plane 3 [2000 mm (80 in.)]. calculate Vcx:

5
 ANSI/AMCA 220-05

0 .5 7.4.2 Power input to motor. The power input to the

⎛ 2Pv ⎞
Vcx = ⎜ ⎟ Eq. 7.2.1 (SI) motor is determined from the value of W
⎝ ρ ⎠ corresponding to the value of Q used in Section
7.4.1.
0 .5
⎛ Pv ⎞ Hm = W Eq 7.4.2 (SI)
Vcx = 1097 ⎜ ⎟ Eq. 7.2.1 (I-P)
⎝ ρ ⎠
W
7.2.2 Standard deviation (s) Hm = Eq 7.4.2 (I-P)
745.7
0 .5
⎛ ⎛ ⎡ V ⎤2 ⎞ ⎞ 7.4.3 Air curtain unit efficiency
⎜ (V )2 − ⎜ ⎣ ∑ cx ⎦ ⎟ ⎟
⎜ ∑ cx ⎜ n ⎟⎟
s=⎜ ⎝ ⎠⎟ Ha
⎜ ⎟ ηac =
n −1 Hm Eq 7.4.3
⎜ ⎟ Eq. 7.2.2
⎜ ⎟
⎝ ⎠ 8. Report and Results
where n = number of test points The test report shall be presented in consistent units.
The following information shall be reported:
7.2.3 Average air curtain core velocity (Vca) Manufacturer, trade name, model number, impeller
diameter, inlet and outlet areas, number of fans,

Vca =
( ∑V ) cx
Eq. 7.2.3
number of motors and the motor nameplate data.
The ACU airflow rate shall be presented graphically
n as shown in Figures 5A or 5B.

7.2.4 Outlet air velocity uniformity (U). The outlet In addition, the report shall be in compliance with
air velocity uniformity of the ACU shall be expressed ANSI/AMCA 210, except as noted below:
as a percentage calculated from the average air
curtain core velocity Vca and standard deviation s of 8.1 Outlet air velocity uniformity test
Plane 1, Figure 3, using:
The locations and the results of the measurements
Uca = 100 - (100 × [s/Vca])% Eq. 7.2.4 shall be presented in a table with the calculated
arithmetic average of the measured results, their
7.3 Air curtain velocity projection standard deviation and uniformity, as shown in
Figures 6A and 6B.
The air curtain velocity projection shall be the
average air curtain core velocities Vca, determined 8.2 Air velocity projection test
using Equation 7.2.3, for a set of test planes defined
in Section 6.2.4.4. The locations and the results of the measurements
shall be presented in a table, and a performance
7.4 Air curtain unit efficiency curve meeting the requirements of ANSI/AMCA 210,
with the calculated arithmetic average of the
7.4.1 Air power of air curtain measured results, their standard deviation, and
The air power of an ACU is calculated using the uniformity for each distance from the air discharge
values Pt and Q from an airflow rate test conducted nozzle, as shown in Figures 6A and 6B and Figures
per ANSI/AMCA 210. 7A and 7B.

Ha = PtQ Eq 7.4.1 (SI)

PQ
Ha = t
Eq 7.4.1 (I-P)
6362

6
 ANSI/AMCA 220-05

Formulae:

Airflow and pressure measurements to be made in accordance with Section 6 of this standard and calculations per
ANSI/AMCA 210.

Notes:

1. Unit can be mounted horizontally or vertically.

2. If an ACU has multiple inlets, it shall be mounted so that all of the inlets are contained within the testing
chamber.

3. Air discharge nozzle angle setup as per Figure 1B.

Figure 1A - Airflow Rate Test Setup

7
 ANSI/AMCA 220-05

Definitions:

In determining Θ, the orientation of the ACU shall be established by the ACU’s normal application mounting
position. The direction of Θ is then defined as a 15° ± 1° angle away from the environment that the ACU is
protecting or towards that which would normally be considered the outside.

Units without an adjustable air discharge nozzle are not required to be angled and shall be mounted so that nothing
interferes with the airstream for 3000 mm (120 in.).

Notes:

1. The examples above are not intended to represent every possible ACU mounting application, they are only to
serve as examples of how the direction of Θ shall be determined.

2. For example, the nozzle setup of an ACU designed for outdoor application (not shown), shall be determined
by the definition and the guidelines illustrated in the examples above. Following these criteria yields the
direction of Θ to be the same as that shown in Example #2 (opposite that shown in Detail A and Detail B).

Figure 1B - Air Discharge Nozzle Angle Setup

8
 ANSI/AMCA 220-05

Formulae:

1. A = 2 Equivalent ACU Inlet Diameters

0 .5
⎛ cd * ⎞
A = 4⎜ ⎟
⎝ π ⎠

* For ACU’s without a rectangular inlet, substitute the actual value of the inlet area for cd in equation.

* For ACU’s with multiple inlets, substitute the sum of all inlet areas for cd in equation.

Notes:

1. See Figures 3 & 4 for test plane locations.

2. Air discharge nozzle angle setup as per Figure 1B.

3. Center baffle(s) over center line of airflow.

4. Nd = Air Discharge Nozzle Depth.

5. Nw = Air Discharge Nozzle Width.

6. If an ACU has multiple inlets, the nearest surface to each inlet (including the floor) shall be equal to the A value
of that inlet. If an ACU must be suspended above the floor, a bottom baffle identical to the top baffle must be
used.

Figure 2 - Outlet Air Velocity Uniformity and Air Velocity Projection Test Setup

9
 ANSI/AMCA 220-05

Formulae:

1. Cd = Test line spacing

(See note 4)

G
Cd = ≤ 100 mm (4 in.)
n −1

2. Vca = Average Air Curtain

Core Velocity

Vca =
( ∑V ) cx

3. s = Standard Deviation

0 .5
⎛ ⎛ ⎡ V ⎤2 ⎞ ⎞
⎜ (V )2 − ⎜ ⎣ ∑ cx ⎦ ⎟ ⎟
⎜ ∑ cx ⎜ n ⎟⎟
s=⎜ ⎝ ⎠⎟
⎜ n −1 ⎟
⎜ ⎟
⎜ ⎟
⎝ ⎠
Notes:

1. Air Curtain Unit setup as per Figure 2.

2. Air discharge nozzle angle setup as per Figure 1B.

3. n = number of test lines (x) (5 minimum).

4. Calculated test line spacing (Cd) shall be less than or equal to 100 mm (4 in.) and rounded to the nearest
multiple of 5 mm (1/4 in.).

5. Nd = Air Discharge Nozzle Depth

6. Nw = Air Discharge Nozzle Width

7. Vcx = core (peak) air velocity along test line x

Figure 3 - Outlet Air Velocity Uniformity Test Setup

10
 ANSI/AMCA 220-05

Formulae: Notes:

1.) Cd = Internal test line spacing (See note 4) 1. Air Curtain Unit setup as per Figure 2.
2. Air discharge nozzle angle setup as per Figure 1B.
G
Cd = ≤ 100 mm (4 in.) 3. n = number of test lines (x) (5 minimum).
n −1 4. Calculated test line spacing (Cd) shall be less than
or equal to 100 mm (4 in.) and rounded to the
2.) Vca = Average Air Curtain Core Velocity nearest multiple of 5 mm (1/4 in.).

Vca =
( ∑V ) cx
5. Plane locations shall be accurate to ± 25 mm (1
in.).
n 6. Additional planes shall be spaced every 1000 mm
(40 in.).
3.) s = Standard Deviation 7. Nd = Air Discharge Nozzle Depth
0 .5 8. Nw = Air Discharge Nozzle Width
⎛ ⎛ ⎡ V ⎤2 ⎞ ⎞
⎜ (V )2 − ⎜ ⎣ ∑ cx ⎦ ⎟ ⎟
⎜ ∑ cx
9. Vcx = core (peak) air velocity along test line x
⎜ n ⎟⎟
s= ⎜ ⎝ ⎠⎟
⎜ n −1 ⎟
⎜ ⎟
⎜ ⎟
⎝ ⎠
Figure 4 - Air Velocity Projection Test Setup

11
 ANSI/AMCA 220-05

50

890

RPM
880
37.5
870

EFFICIENCY (per unit)

POWER INPUT (kW)
Static Pressure (Pa)

FAN SPEED (RPM)

860 0.3
Ps

25

0.9 0.2

ηac

12.5
0.8 0.1
W

0.7 0
1.40 1.45 1.50 1.55 1.60
Airflow Rate (m3/s)

ACU MODEL: ANSI/AMCA 220 Figure: 1

N D: mm NW: mm ANSI/AMCA 210 Inlet Chamber Figure:

FREE DELIVERY CONDITIONS:

Airflow Rate: m3/s

Average Velocity: m/s Air Density: kg/m3

Input Watts: Efficiency: %

TEST NUMBER: CURVE BY:

LABORATORY: DATE:

LOCATIONS:

Figure 5A - Typical Air Curtain Unit Airflow Rate Performance Curve (SI)

12
 ANSI/AMCA 220-05

0.2

890

RPM
880
0.15
870
Static Pressure (in. wg)

EFFICIENCY (per unit)

POWER INPUT (kW)
FAN SPEED (RPM)
860 0.3
Ps

0.1

0.9 0.2

ηac

0.05
0.8 0.1
W

0.7 0
3000 3100 3200 3300 3400
Airflow Rate (CFM)

ACU MODEL: ANSI/AMCA 220 Figure: 1

N D: in. NW: in. ANSI/AMCA 210 Inlet Chamber Figure:

FREE DELIVERY CONDITIONS:

Airflow Rate: cfm

Average Velocity: fpm Air Density: lbm/ft3

Input Watts: Efficiency: %

TEST NUMBER: CURVE BY:

LABORATORY: DATE:

LOCATIONS:

Figure 5B - Typical Air Curtain Unit Airflow Rate Performance Curve (I-P)

13
 ANSI/AMCA 220-05

Figure 6A - Sample Outlet Air Velocity Uniformity And Air Velocity Projection Calculations (SI)

14
 ANSI/AMCA 220-05

Figure 6B - Sample Outlet Air Velocity Uniformity And Air Velocity Projection Calculations (I-P)

15
 ANSI/AMCA 220-05

20
18 18.45
Average Core Velocity (Vca) (m/s)
16
14

12

10
8 8.05
7.13
6 5.76
4

0
100 200 300 400
Plane Distance From ACU (mm)

Figure 7A - Sample Air Velocity Projection Test (SI)

4000
3626
3500
Average Core Velocity (Vca) (fpm)

3000

2500

2000
1582
1500 1401

1000 1131

500

0
4 40 80 120
Plane Distance From ACU (inches)

Figure 7B - Sample Air Velocity Projection Test (I-P)

16
 ANSI/AMCA 220-05

Annex A. Uncertainty In Velocity Determination Using Pitot-Static Tube and Manometer

(Informative)

TABLE OF 5 PERCENT UNCERTAINTY

Values given are based on an error equivalent to an indicating column length

of 12 Pa (0.05 in. wg) in a vertical manometer having a 1:1 slope ratio.

Slope Ratio Minimum Usable Velocity

1:1 14 m/s 2800 fpm

2:1 10 m/s 2000 fpm
5:1 6 m/s 1250 fpm
10:1 5 m/s 900 fpm
20:1 3 m/s 630 fpm

Source: David Johnson, Berner International Corporation, 1998

17
 ANSI/AMCA 220-05

Annex B. References (Informative)

[1] Page, C.H. and Vigoreaux, P., The International System of Units (SI), National Bureau of Standards (now:
National Institute for Standards and Technology), NBS Special Publication 330, 1972, Gaithersburg, MD,
U.S.A. AMCA #1140

[2] ASME Steam Tables, 1967, p.283, American Society of Mechanical Engineers, New York, NY, U.S.A.
AMCA #2312

18
 AIR MOVEMENT AND CONTROL
ASSOCIATION INTERNATIONAL, INC.
30 West University Drive
Arlington Heights, IL 60004-1893 U.S.A.
Tel: (847) 394-0150 Fax: (847) 253-0088
E-Mail : [email protected] Web: www.amca.org

The Air Movement and control Association International, Inc. is a not-for-profit international association of the
world’s manufacturers of related air system equipment primarily, but limited to: fans, louvers, dampers, air
curtains, airflow measurement stations, acoustic attenuators, and other air system components for the industrial,
commercial and residential markets.