Class Zero Air

Recent efforts to standardize definitions between multiple codes and publications have resulted in significant confusion, particularly relating to air designated for use in CSP or the endoscopy department. Instrument Air is suitable for these applications, but as a Medical Support Gas must meet all NFPA 99 requirements and can therefore by very costly.

Class Zero Air, which may also be referred to as Equipment Air, Tool Air, or a host of other names, is a new category intended specifically to meet the need for instrument-quality air without the trappings of full compliance with the NFPA 99. Within this category, the equipment can be matched exactly to the application.

Class Zero Air, named in terms of oil content as defined by ISO 8573-1:2001 Part 1, is the perfect match for almost any non-medical compressed air application. These systems are
frequently used to deliver clean air to blow guns in CSP, cart washers, sterilizers, and scope drying cabinets such as the STERIS Reliance™ or Cantel/Medivators ENDODRY™. Class Zero Air enclosed scroll compressors have small footprints and run quiet (<60dB) so they can typically be installed either in or near the application area, even if it is staffed. These packages are not required either to have the same redundancy as medical packages or the same alarms.