Particle analyser for technical inspection centres: choosing the right equipment
News - 22/01/2026
What is a vehicle exhaust particle counter?
Equipment for measuring exhaust particles from diesel vehicles fitted with a particulate filter is very different from a simple dust counter or an air quality analyser.
The vehicle exhaust particle analyser is designed to:
- monitor the efficiency of the particulate filter (DPF)
- count the number of nanoparticles (PN) per cm³ (#/cm³) emitted by diesel engines
- assess the vehicle’s actual pollution levels.
Choosing a particle analyser for use in a vehicle testing centre
Unlike consumer-grade particle counters, the PN (Particles by Number) counter must meet certain specifications to measure exhaust particles and must comply with automotive standards.
Points to check:
- equipment compliance
- result expressed in #/cm³
- Euro 5 / Euro 6 compliance
- technology suitable for exhaust particles
Also ensure that the particle analyser:
- is quick and easy to use
- ↦ can be connected to the existing gas analyser/smoke meter
- ↦ provides a PASS/FAIL result
- ↦ is calibrated to local standards
Capelec solution: the CAP3070 exhaust particle analyser
Consumables, maintenance and ease of everyday use: impacts on operating costs and productivity
The CAP3070 is designed for productivity and ease of use in day-to-day operations:
- Rapid measurement taking approximately 30 seconds
- Simple interface and guided procedure
- Bluetooth communication and control via PC or tablet
- Integration with existing equipment or standalone use
The CAP3070 PN is designed to keep the sensor clean and extend its service life :
- particulates from the exhaust gases are drawn in by the Venturi effect using a flow of clean air
- they are electrostatically charged at the sensor inlet
- the particle concentration is measured as the air passes through the sensor
Capelec’s patented direct-flow design
Benefits: low maintenance, no consumables, and reduced running costs compared to technologies requiring specific liquids or filters.
The Capelec particle analyser is also renowned for its reliability:
- High accuracy and repeatability of the Extended DC technology
- Wide dynamic measurement range for more accurate results
- No measurement errors caused by dilution (CPC technology)
- Next-generation particle sensor
Capelec next-generation particle sensor
Regulatory compliance
The CAP3070 PN analyser for technical inspection centres is used for PN testing in several European countries and is accredited by METAS, PTB and NMI.