Particle Analyzer for Vehicle Inspection Centers: Choosing the Right Equipment
News - 22/01/2026
What is an automotive exhaust particle counter?
Equipment for measuring exhaust particles from diesel vehicles equipped with a particulate filter is very different from a simple dust counter or an air quality analyzer.
The automotive exhaust particle analyzer is designed to:
- monitor the efficiency of the diesel particulate filter (DPF)
- count the number of nanoparticles (PN) per cm³ (#/cm³) emitted by diesel engines
- assess the vehicle’s actual pollution levels.
Choose a particle analyzer intended for use in a vehicle inspection center
Unlike consumer-grade particle counters, the PN (Particles by Number) counter must meet certain specifications to measure exhaust particles and must be compliant with automotive standards.
Points to check:
- equipment compliance
- result expressed in #/cm³
- Euro 5 / Euro 6 compatibility
- technology suitable for exhaust particles
Also ensure that the particle analyzer:
- is quick and easy to use
- can connect to the existing gas analyzer/opacimeter
- provides a PASS/FAIL result
- is calibrated according to local standards
CAPELEC Solution: the CAP3070 exhaust particle analyzer
Consumables, maintenance, and ease of daily use: impacts on operating costs and productivity
The CAP3070 is designed for productivity and ease of daily use:
- Fast measurement in about 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’s design keeps the sensor clean and extends its service life :
- exhaust particles are drawn in by the Venturi effect using a stream 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 operating costs compared to technologies requiring specific liquids or filters.
The CAPELEC particle analyzer is also recognized for its reliability:
- High accuracy and repeatability of the Extended DC Technology
- Wide dynamic measurement range for more accurate results
- No measurement deviations caused by dilution (CPC technology)
- Next-generation particle sensor
CAPELEC next-generation particle sensor
Regulatory Compliance
The CAP3070 PN analyzer for vehicle inspection centers is used for PN testing in several European countries and is certified by METAS, PTB, and NMI.