ANSI/AMCA

Standard 220-05
(R2012)
Laboratory Methods of Testing
Air Curtain Units for
Aerodynamic Performance Rating
An American National Standard
Approved by ANSI on March 29, 2012

AIR MOVEMENT AND CONTROL

ASSOCIATION INTERNATIONAL, INC.

The International Authority on Air System Components

ANSI/AMCA Standard 220-05

(R2012)

Laboratory Methods of Testing

Air Curtain Units for Aerodynamic Performance Rating

Air Movement and Control Association International

30 W. University Drive
Arlington Heights, Illinois
60004

AMCA Publications
Authority

AMCA Standard 220 was approved by the AMCA International membership on January 14, 2001 and as
an American National Standard by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) on 7 June 2005. The
document was reaffirmed on March 29, 2012.

Copyright

2012 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.

Objections

Air Movement and Control Association International, Inc. will consider and decide all written complaints
regarding its standards, certification 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.
AMCA International, Incorporated
c/o Federation of Environmental Trade Associations
2 Waltham Court, Milley Lane, Hare Hatch
Reading, Berkshire, United Kingdom
RG10 9TH

Disclaimer

AMCA 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 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 standards or that any tests conducted under its standards will be non-hazardous
or free from risk.

Review Committee
David Johnson
Committee Chair

Berner International Corp.

Michael Coscarelli*

Berner International Corp.

Frank Cuaderno

Mars Sales Co., Inc.

James M. Jagers

Alton

Brian K. Jones*

Powered Aire, Inc.

Ken Lapinski

Powered Aire, Inc.

Dennis Neibrook*

Marley Engineered Products

Jack Peters**

Loren Cook Co.

Steve Rosol*

Mars Sales Co., Inc.

Vincent Vilarchao

Marley Engineered Products

Paul Saxon

AMCA International Staff

Joe Brooks

AMCA International Staff

* Alternate Committee Member

** Corresponding Committee Member

Related AMCA Documents

Related
Publications

Related
Standards

AMCA Publication 11

Certified Ratings Program - Operating Manual

AMCA Publication 111

Laboratory Accreditation Program

AMCA Publication 211

Certified Ratings Program - Air Performance

ANSI/AMCA Standard 210

Laboratory Methods of Testing Fans for Aerodynamic Performance Rating

Contents
1. Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
2. Normative References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
3. Definitions / Units of Measure / Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

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

3.2 System of units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

3.3 Symbols and subscripts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

4. Instruments and Methods of Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

4.1 Air curtain core velocity measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

4.2 Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

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

5.1 Air curtain airflow rate test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

5.2 Air velocity projection and outlet air velocity uniformity test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

6. Observations and Conduct of Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

6.1 Initial conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

6.2 Data to be recorded . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

7. Calculations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

7.1 Average outlet air velocity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

7.2 Outlet air velocity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

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

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

8. Report and Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

8.1 Outlet air velocity uniformity test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

8.2 Air velocity projection test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Annex A Uncertainty In Velocity Determination Using Pitot-Static Tube and Manometer (Informative) . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Annex B References (Informative) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Laboratory Methods of Testing

Air Curtain Units for Aerodynamic Performance Rating
1. Scope
The scope of this standard covers the performance testing
of air curtain units.
The purpose of this standard is to establish uniform methods for laboratory testing of air curtain units to determine
aerodynamic performance in terms of airflow rate, outlet
air velocity uniformity, power consumption, and air velocity
projection, for rating or guarantee purposes.
It is not the purpose of this standard to specify the testing
procedures to be used for design, production, or field testing.

2. Normative References
The following standard contains provisions which, through
reference in this text, constitute provisions of this standard.
At the time of publication, the edition indicated was valid. All
standards are subject to revision, and parties to agreements
based on this standard are encouraged to investigate the
possibility of applying the most recent edition of the standard indicated below.
ANSI/AMCA 210-99
Laboratory Methods of Testing Fans for Aerodynamic
Performance Rating
Air Movement and Control Association International, Inc.,
Arlington Heights, IL 60004 U.S.A., 1999.

3. Definitions / Units of Measure / Symbols

3.1 Definitions
3.1.1 Air curtain (airstream)
A directionally-controlled airstream, moving across the
entire height and width of an opening, which reduces the
infiltration or transfer of air from one side of the opening to
the other and/or inhibits insects, dust or debris from passing
through. For the purposes of this standard, air curtain and
airstream are synonymous.
3.1.2 Air curtain depth
The airstream dimension perpendicular to both the direction
of airflow and the airstream width; the short dimension of
the airstream.
3.1.3 Air curtain width
The airstream dimension perpendicular to both the direction
of airflow and the airstream depth; the long dimension of the
airstream.

3.1.4 Air curtain unit (ACU)

An air moving device which produces an air curtain.
3.1.5 Air discharge nozzle
A component or an assembly, which may include adjustable
vanes, in the ACU which directs and controls the airstream.
3.1.6 Air discharge nozzle depth (Nd)
The inside dimension perpendicular to both the direction of
airflow and the airstream width.
3.1.7 Air discharge nozzle width (Nw)
The inside dimension perpendicular to both the direction of
airflow and the nozzle depth.
3.1.8 Air discharge angle (q)
The angle between the plane of the protected opening and
the direction in which the air curtain leaves the discharge.
3.1.9 Psychrometrics (from ANSI/AMCA 210)
3.1.9.1 Dry-bulb temperature (td)
The air temperature measured by a dry temperature sensor.
3.1.9.2 Wet-bulb temperature (tw)
The temperature measured by a temperature sensor
covered by a water-moistened wick and exposed to air in
motion. When properly measured, it is a close approximation of the temperature of adiabatic saturation.
3.1.9.3 Wet-bulb depression
The difference between the dry-bulb and wet-bulb temperatures at the same location.
3.1.9.4 Stagnation (total) temperature
Stagnation (total) temperature is the temperature which
exists by virtue of the internal and kinetic energy of the air.
If the air is at rest, the total temperature will equal the static
temperature.
3.1.9.5 Static temperature
Static temperature is the temperature which exists by virtue
of the internal energy of the air only. If a portion of the internal
energy is converted into kinetic energy, the static temperature will be decreased accordingly.
3.1.9.6 Air density ()
Air density is the mass per unit volume of the air.
3.1.9.7 Standard air
Air with a density of 1.2 kg/m3 (0.075 lbm/ft3), a ratio of
specific heats of 1.4, a viscosity of 1.8185 10-05 Pas (1.222
AMCA 220-05 (R2012) | 1

10-05 lbm/fts). Air at 20 C (68 F) temperature, 50% relative humidity, and 101.3207 kPa (29.92 in. Hg) barometric
pressure has these properties, approximately.

curtain width, expressed as a percentage. Refer to Section

7.2.4 for calculation of the value.

3.1.10.1 Pressure
Force per unit area.

3.1.11.4 Air curtain core velocity (Vcx)

The maximum air velocity of the air curtain at point X as
measured across both the air curtain depth and width at
specified distances from the discharge nozzle, per Section
7.2.1.

3.1.10.2 Absolute pressure

The value of a pressure when the datum pressure is absolute zero. It is always positive.

3.1.11.5 Air curtain average core velocity (Vca)

An average of air curtain core velocities measured along the
air curtain width, at specified distances per Section 7.2.3.

3.1.10.3 Barometric pressure (pb)

The absolute pressure exerted by the atmosphere.

3.1.11.6 Air curtain velocity projection

A set of average air curtain core velocities measured along
the air curtain width at distances specified in Section 6.2.4.4.

3.1.10 Pressure and head

3.1.10.4 Gauge pressure

The value of a pressure when the datum pressure is the
barometric pressure at the point of measurement. It may be
positive or negative.
3.1.10.5 Velocity pressure (Pv)
The portion of the air pressure which exists by virtue of the
rate of motion only. It is always positive.
3.1.10.6 Static pressure
That portion of the air pressure which exists by virtue of the
degree of compression only. If expressed as gauge pressure, it may be positive or negative.
3.1.10.7 Total pressure
The air pressure which exists by virtue of the degree of
compression and the rate of motion. It is the algebraic sum
of the velocity pressure and the static pressure at a point.
Thus, if the air is at rest, the total pressure will equal the
static pressure.
3.1.10.8 Pressure loss
The decrease in total pressure due to friction and turbulence.
3.1.11 Air curtain unit performance variables
3.1.11.1 Unit airflow rate (volume) (Q)
The airflow volume which leaves the discharge nozzle, at
standard air conditions, as measured in accordance with
ANSI/AMCA 210, and reported in m3/s (cfm).
3.1.11.2 Average outlet air velocity (Va)
The airflow rate produced by the air curtain unit divided by
the cross sectional area of the discharge nozzle plane at
free-air delivery. Refer to Section 7.1 for calculation of the
value.
3.1.11.3 Outlet air velocity uniformity (U)
An indicator of the consistency of air velocities across the air

2 | AMCA 220-05 (R2012)

3.1.11.7 Power rating of the air curtain unit (W)

The amount of energy, expressed in kW, consumed by the
drive motor(s) of the air curtain unit at free-air delivery.
3.1.11.8 Air curtain unit efficiency (hac)
The ratio of the ACU air power to the power rating of the
ACU. This value is based upon total fan efficiency given in
ANSI/AMCA 210.
3.1.11.9 Air curtain unit target distance
A distance perpendicular to the discharge nozzle depth in
meters (feet), determined by the sponsor of the test, for the
purpose of setting up the test.
3.1.11.10 Air power
The useful power delivered to the air. This is proportional to
the product of the ACU airflow rate and total pressure.
3.1.12 Miscellaneous
3.1.12.1 Point of operation
The relative position on the air curtain performance curve
corresponding to a particular airflow rate, pressure, power
and efficiency.
3.1.12.2 Free-air delivery
Free-air delivery is that point of operation where the air
curtain unit operates against zero static pressure.
3.1.12.3 Determination
A determination is a complete set of measurements for
a particular point of operation for the parameter being
determined.
3.1.12.4 Test
A series of determinations of various characteristics at a
single point of operation of an air curtain unit.

3.2 System of units

SI units (The International System of Units - Le Systme
International dUnits) [1] are the primary units employed in
this standard, with I-P units given as the secondary reference. SI units are based on the fundamental values of the
International Bureau of Weights and Measures [1], and I-P
values are based on the values of the National Institute of
Standards and Technology that are, in turn, based upon the
values of the International Bureau.
3.2.1 Basic units
The unit of length is the meter (m) or millimeter (mm); I-P
units are the foot (ft) or inch (in.). The unit of mass is the
kilogram (kg); the I-P unit is the pound-mass (lbm). The unit
of time is either the minute (min) or the second (s). The unit
of temperature is either the Kelvin (K) or the degree Celsius
(C); I-P units are the degree Rankine (R) or the degree
Fahrenheit (F). The unit of force is the Newton (N); the I-P
unit is the pound force (lbf).
3.2.2 Airflow rate and velocity
The unit of airflow rate is the cubic meter per second (m3/s);
the I-P unit is the cubic foot per minute (cfm). The unit of
velocity is the meter per second (m/s); the I-P unit is the foot
per minute (fpm).
3.2.3 Pressure
The unit of pressure is either the Pascal (Pa) or the millimeter of mercury (mm Hg); the I-P unit is either the inch water
gauge (in. wg), or the inch mercury column (in. Hg). Values
in millimeters of mercury or inches of mercury shall be used
only for barometric pressure measurements. The inch water
gauge shall be based on a 1 inch column of distilled water
at 68 F under standard gravity and a gas column balancing
effect based on standard air. The millimeter of mercury shall
be based on a 1 inch column of mercury at 0 C under standard gravity in vacuo. The inch of mercury shall be based on
a 1 inch column of mercury at 32 F under standard gravity
in vacuo.
3.2.4 Power, energy, and torque
The unit of power is the watt (W); the I-P unit is the horsepower (hp). The unit of energy is the joule (J); the I-P unit is
the foot-pound (ft-lb). The unit of torque is the Newton-meter
(Nm); the I-P unit is the pound-inch (lb in.).
3.2.5 Efficiency
Efficiency is expressed on a per-unit basis. Percentage
values can be obtained by multiplying by 100.

3.2.7 Gas properties

The unit of density is the kilogram per cubic meter (kg/m3);
the I-P unit is the pound-mass per cubic foot (lbm/ft3). The
unit of viscosity is the Pascal second (Pas); the I-P unit is
the pound-mass per foot-second (lbm/fts). The unit of gas
constant is the joule per kilogram kelvin (J/kgK); the I-P unit
is the foot-pound per pound-mass degree Rankine (ftlb/
lbmR).
3.2.8 Dimensionless groups
Various dimensionless quantities appear in the text. Any
consistent system of units may be employed to evaluate
these quantities unless a numerical factor is included, in
which case units must be as specified.
3.2.9 Physical constants
The value of standard gravitational acceleration shall be
taken as 9.80665 m/s2 at mean sea level at 45 latitude; the
I-P value is 32.1740 ft/s2 at mean sea level at 45 latitude
[1]. The density of distilled water at saturation pressure shall
be taken as 998.278 kg/m3 at 20 C; the I-P value is 62.3205
lbm/ft3 68 F [2]. The density of mercury at saturation pressure shall be taken as 13595.1 kg/m3 at 0 C; the I-P value
is 848.714 lbm/ft3 at 32 F [2]. The specific weights in kg/
m3 (lbm/ft3) of these fluids in vacuo under standard gravity are numerically equal to their densities at corresponding
temperatures.

3.3 Symbols and subscripts

See Table 1.

4. Instruments and Methods of Measurement

Instruments and methods of measurement shall be in
compliance with ANSI/AMCA 210 except where specifically
noted.

4.1 Air curtain core velocity measurement

Air curtain core velocity shall be measured with a Pitot-static
tube and manometer, a hot-wire anemometer, or any other
device which has an accuracy of 5.0% of the air velocity
being measured. Refer to Section 6.2 for details.

4.2 Power
Power shall be measured with a wattmeter having a certified
accuracy of 1% of the observed reading.

3.2.6 Rotational speed

There is no unit of rotational speed as-such in the SI system
of units. The commonly used unit in both systems is the
revolution per minute (rpm).

AMCA 220-05 (R2012) | 3

Table 1
Symbols and Subscripts
Symbol

Description

SI Unit

An
H a
H m
n
N
ac

N d
Nw
p b
Pt
Pv
Q
s

td
tw
U
V a
Vcx
Vca
W

Nozzle cross-sectional area

Air power of air curtain unit
Power input to motor
Number of data points
Air curtain unit speed
Air curtain unit efficiency

Air density
Air discharge nozzle depth
Air discharge nozzle width
Barometric pressure
Total pressure
Velocity pressure
Air curtain unit airflow rate
Standard deviation
Air discharge angle
Dry-bulb temperature
Wet-bulb temperature
Outlet air velocity uniformity
Velocity, average outlet
Velocity, air curtain core, at point X
Velocity, average (air curtain core)
Power rating of the ACU

m2 ft2
W

hp
W

hp
---
--rpm
rpm
per unit
per unit
kg/m3 lbm/ft3
mm

inches
mm

inches
Pa
in. Hg
Pa
in. Hg
Pa
in. wg
m3/s cfm
---
--degrees
degrees
C
F
C
F
%
%
m/s
ft/s
m/s
fpm
m/s
fpm
Watt
Watt

4 | AMCA 220-05 (R2012)

I-P Unit

5. Equipment and Setups

6.2.4 Test data

5.1 Air curtain airflow rate test

6.2.4.1 Initial and final conditions

Initial and final readings of: ambient dry-bulb temperature (td),
ambient wet-bulb temperature (tw), and ambient barometric
pressure (pb) shall be recorded for each determination.

The air curtain unit shall be mounted with its inlet sealed
to the test chamber in compliance with the requirements of
Figure 1A. The seal shall be adequate enough to minimize
leakage. The air discharge nozzle or adjustable vanes in the
air discharge nozzle shall be set so as to provide a 15 1
angle as shown in Figure 1B.

5.2 Air velocity projection and outlet air velocity

uniformity test
The air curtain unit shall be placed in the testing area in
compliance with the requirements of Figure 2 so that the
inlet and outlet are unrestricted and the air curtain width is
perpendicular to the floor. The air discharge nozzle or adjustable vanes in the air discharge nozzle shall be set so as to
provide a 15 1 air discharge angle as shown in Detail A
or B of Figure 1B. 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.).

6. Observations and Conduct of Tests

6.1 Initial conditions
The unit under test shall be energized and operated for
not less than one minute to allow equilibrium conditions to
become established before the first determination.

6.2 Data to be recorded

6.2.1 ACU Under test
The following information shall be recorded: Manufacturer,
trade name, model number, impeller diameter, inlet and
outlet areas, number of fans, number of motors and the
motor nameplate data.
6.2.2 Test setup
The description of the test setup shall be recorded, including
specific dimensions as required per Figures 1, 2, 3 and 4.
Alternately, an annotated photograph of the setup shall be
attached to the recorded data.
6.2.3 Instruments
The instruments and apparatus used in the test shall be
listed. Names, model numbers, serial numbers, scale
ranges, and calibration information shall be recorded.

6.2.4.2 Airflow rate determination

To establish the airflow rate at free-air delivery, a curve
containing a minimum of three determinations is required
per ANSI/AMCA 210. See Figures 1A and 1B. One determination with the unit working against a pressure of 50 Pa (0.2
in. wg), one determination against a pressure of 25 Pa (0.1
in. wg) and one determination against a pressure of 2.5 Pa
(0.01 in. wg) or less.
6.2.4.3 Outlet air velocity uniformity test
The outlet air velocity uniformity test shall be based on air
curtain core velocity measurements taken on a minimum of
five equally spaced test lines on Plane 1 located one air
discharge nozzle depth away from, and parallel to, the air
discharge nozzle width. The test line locations at the two
ends of the plane shall be one air discharge nozzle depth
in from each end as shown in Figure 3. The remaining test
line locations shall be equally spaced and each space shall
not exceed 100 mm (4 in.). Record the maximum air curtain
core velocity readings along each test line within the plane.
6.2.4.4 Air curtain velocity projection test
General:
The air velocity projection test shall be based on air curtain
core velocity measurements taken on a minimum of three
planes parallel to the plane of the air discharge nozzle as
shown in Figure 4. The air curtain core velocities shall be
recorded on a minimum of five equally spaced test lines
across each plane. The test line locations at the two ends of
each plane shall be located one air discharge nozzle 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.). Record the maximum air curtain
air core velocity reading along the test lines within each
plane.
The sponsor of the test shall determine the number of test
planes by specifying an ACU Target Distance, a minimum
average air curtain core velocity, or both.
For ACU Target Distance Specified:
The ACU Target Distance shall be a minimum of 1000 mm
(40 in.), or whole multiples thereof.
For an ACU Target Distance greater than or equal to
3000 mm (120 in.), the air curtain core velocities shall be
measured at Plane 2 [1000 mm (40 in.)], Plane 3 [2000
mm (80 in.)], and Plane 4 [3000 mm (120 in.)]. Additional
AMCA 220-05 (R2012) | 5

readings shall be taken at consecutively numbered planes

located at 1000 mm (40 inch) intervals until the ACU Target
Distance is reached.
For an ACU Target Distance of 2000 mm (80 in.), the air
curtain core velocity shall be measured at Plane 2 [1000 mm
(40 in.)], Plane 2A [1500 mm (60 in.)], and Plane 3 [2000
mm (80 in.)].
For an ACU Target Distance of 1000 mm (40 inches), the
air curtain core velocity shall be measured at Plane 1A [500
mm (20 in.)], Plane 2 [1000 mm (40 in.)], and Plane 2A [1500
mm (60 in.)].
For Minimum Air Curtain Core Velocity Specified:
The test shall be terminated upon measurement and calculation of a value less than or equal to the specified minimum
average air curtain core velocity.
The first reading shall be taken at Plane 2 [1000 mm (40
in.)]. If the reading is less than the minimum specified average core velocity, readings shall be taken at Plane 1A [500
mm (20 in.)] and Plane 1 located Nd from the air discharge
nozzle plane (See Figure 3) and the test concluded.
If the first reading is greater than the minimum specified
average core velocity, the second reading shall be taken at
Plane 3 [2000 mm (80 in.)]. If the second reading is less
than the minimum specified average core velocity, the third
reading shall be taken at Plane 2A [1500 mm (60 in.)] and
the test concluded.
If the second reading is greater than the minimum specified average core velocity, the third reading shall be taken at
Plane 4 [3000 mm (120 in.)].
If the third reading is still greater than the minimum specified
average core velocity, additional readings shall be taken at
1000 mm (40 in.) intervals until the minimum core velocity
is attained.

7. Calculations
Calculations, except as noted below, shall be in compliance
with the requirements of Section 9, ANSI/AMCA 210.

7.1 Average outlet air velocity

The average outlet air velocity shall be the unit airflow rate
divided by the cross-sectional area of the discharge nozzle
plane or:
Va = Q/An

6 | AMCA 220-05 (R2012)

Eq. 7.1

7.2 Outlet air velocity

7.2.1 Air curtain core velocity (Vcx)
The maximum air velocities of the airstream shall be
obtained by traversing each test line x, as shown in Figure 3,
and recording each maximum reading using instrumentation
per Section 4.1. If velocity pressure is measured via Pitotstatic tube or other velocity pressure measuring device, use
Equation 7.2.1 to calculate Vcx:

Vcx =

2Pv
r

Vcx = 1097

Pv
r

Eq. 7.2.1 (SI)

Eq. 7.2.1 (I-P)

7.2.2 Standard deviation (s)

2

Vcx

(Vcx ) n

s=

n 1

Eq. 7.2.2

Where n = number of test points

7.2.3 Average air curtain core velocity (Vca)
Vca =

(Vcx )
n

Eq. 7.2.3

7.2.4 Outlet air velocity uniformity (U)

The outlet air velocity uniformity of the ACU shall be
expressed as a percentage calculated from the average air
curtain core velocity Vca and standard deviation s of Plane
1, Figure 3, using:
s
%
Uca = 100 100
Vca

Eq. 7.2.4

7.3 Air curtain velocity projection

The air curtain velocity projection shall be the average air
curtain core velocities Vca, determined using Equation 7.2.3,
for a set of test planes defined in Section 6.2.4.4.

7.4 Air curtain unit efficiency

7.4.1 Air power of air curtain
The air power of an ACU is calculated using the values Pt

and Q from an airflow rate test conducted per ANSI/AMCA

210.
Ha = PtQ
Ha =

Eq 7.4.1 (SI)

PtQ
6362

Eq 7.4.1 (I-P)

7.4.2 Power input to motor

The power input to the motor is determined from the value
of W corresponding to the value of Q used in Section 7.4.1.
Hm = W
Hm =

Eq 7.4.2 (SI)

W

745.7

Eq 7.4.2 (I-P)

7.4.3 Air curtain unit efficiency

hac =

Ha
Hm

Eq 7.4.3

8. Report and Results

The test report shall be presented in consistent units. The
following information shall be reported: Manufacturer, trade
name, model number, impeller diameter, inlet and outlet
areas, number of fans, number of motors and the motor
nameplate data. The ACU airflow rate shall be presented
graphically as shown in Figures 5A or 5B.
In addition, the report shall be in compliance with ANSI/
AMCA 210, except as noted in Sections 8.1 and 8.2.

8.1 Outlet air velocity uniformity test

The locations and the results of the measurements shall be
presented in a table with the calculated arithmetic average
of the measured results, their standard deviation and uniformity, as shown in Figures 6A and 6B.

8.2 Air velocity projection test

The locations and the results of the measurements shall be
presented in a table, and a performance curve meeting the
requirements of ANSI/AMCA 210, with the calculated arithmetic average of the measured results, their standard deviation, and uniformity for each distance from the air discharge
nozzle, as shown in Figures 6A and 6B and Figures 7A and
7B.

AMCA 220-05 (R2012) | 7

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
8 | AMCA 220-05 (R2012)

Definitions:
In determining , the orientation of the ACU shall be established by the ACUs normal application mounting position. The direction of 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 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 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
AMCA 220-05 (R2012) | 9

ROOM WALLS

ROOM WALLS

MINIMUM 3000 mm
TARGET DISTANCE

A
ACU

1220 mm
MAX

TOP BAFFLE

50 mm MAX

A
c

AIRFLOW

Nw

50 mm MAX
ACU INLET
SIDE
ELEVATION

A
Nd

ACU

ACU AIR
DISCHARGE
NOZZLE
FRONT
ELEVATION

Formulae:
1. A = 2 Equivalent ACU Inlet Diameters

cd *
A=4
p

* For ACUs without a rectangular inlet, substitute the actual value of the inlet area for cd in equation.
* For ACUs 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
10 | AMCA 220-05 (R2012)

Formulae:
1. Cd = Test line spacing

(See note 4)
Cd =

G
100 mm (4 in.)
n 1

2. Vca = Average Air Curtain

Core Velocity
Vca =

(Vcx )
n

3. s = Standard Deviation
2

Vcx

(Vcx ) 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
AMCA 220-05 (R2012) | 11

Formulae:
1.) Cd = Internal test line spacing (See note 4)
Cd =

G
100 mm (4 in.)
n 1

2.) Vca = Average Air Curtain Core Velocity

Vca =

(Vcx )
n

3.) s = Standard Deviation

2

Vcx

(Vcx ) n

s=

n 1

Figure 4
Air Velocity Projection Test Setup
12 | AMCA 220-05 (R2012)

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. Plane locations shall be accurate to 25 mm (1 in.).
6. Additional planes shall be spaced every 1000 mm (40
in.).
7. Nd = Air Discharge Nozzle Depth
8. Nw = Air Discharge Nozzle Width
9. Vcx = core (peak) air velocity along test line x

50
890
880

25

0.3

0.9

0.2

0.8

0.1

0.7

EFFICIENCY (per unit)

860

FAN SPEED (RPM)

Static Pressure (Pa)

870

POWER INPUT (kW)

37.5

12.5

1.40

1.45

1.50

1.55

1.60

Airflow Rate (m3/s)

ACU MODEL: ___________________________________

ANSI/AMCA 220 Figure:

ND: _______________ mm NW: _________________ mm

ANSI/AMCA 210 Inlet Chamber Figure: __________

FREE DELIVERY CONDITIONS:

Airflow Rate: ________________________________ m3/s

Air Density:

___________ kg/m3

Efficiency:

___________ %

Average Velocity: __________ m/s

CURVE BY:

__________________

Input Watts:

DATE:

__________________

__________

TEST NUMBER:

_________________________

LABORATORY:

_________________________

LOCATIONS:

_________________________

Figure 5A
Typical Air Curtain Unit Airflow Rate Performance Curve (SI)
AMCA 220-05 (R2012) | 13

0.2
890
880

0.1

POWER INPUT (kW)

860

FAN SPEED (RPM)

Static Pressure (in. wg)

870

0.3

0.9

0.2

0.8

0.1

0.7

EFFICIENCY (per unit)

0.15

0.05

3000

3100

3200

3300

3400

Airflow Rate (CFM)

ACU MODEL: ___________________________________

ANSI/AMCA 220 Figure:

ND: _______________ in. NW: _________________ in.

ANSI/AMCA 210 Inlet Chamber Figure: __________

FREE DELIVERY CONDITIONS:

Airflow Rate: ________________________________ cfm

Air Density:

___________ lbm/ft3

Efficiency:

___________ %

Average Velocity: __________ fpm

CURVE BY:

__________________

Input Watts:

DATE:

__________________

__________

TEST NUMBER:

_________________________

LABORATORY:

_________________________

LOCATIONS:

_________________________

Figure 5B
Typical Air Curtain Unit Airflow Rate Performance Curve (I-P)
14 | AMCA 220-05 (R2012)

Figure 6A
Sample Outlet Air Velocity Uniformity and Air Velocity Projection Calculations (SI)
AMCA 220-05 (R2012) | 15

Figure 6B
Sample Outlet Air Velocity Uniformity and Air Velocity Projection Calculations (I-P)
16 | AMCA 220-05 (R2012)

20
18.45

Average Core Velocity (Vca) (m/s)

18
16
14
12
10

8.05

7.13

5.76

4
2
0
100

200

300

400

Plane Distance From ACU (mm)

Figure 7A
Sample Air Velocity Projection Test (SI)

Average Core Velocity (Vca) (fpm)

4000
3626

3500
3000
2500
2000

1582

1500

1401
1131

1000
500
0
4

40

80

120

Plane Distance From ACU (inches)

Figure 7B
Sample Air Velocity Projection Test (I-P)
AMCA 220-05 (R2012) | 17

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
2:1
5:1
10:1
20:1

14 m/s
10 m/s
6 m/s
5 m/s
3 m/s

(2800 fpm)
(2000 fpm)
(1250 fpm)
(900 fpm)
(630 fpm)

Source: David Johnson, Berner International Corporation, 1998

18 | AMCA 220-05 (R2012)

Annex B
References (Informative)
[1]

Page, C.H. and Vigoreaux, P.

The International System of Units (SI)
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

AMCA 220-05 (R2012) | 19

AIR MOVEMENT AND CONTROL

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

Tel: (847) 394-0150

E-Mail : info@amca.org

Fax: (847) 253-0088

Web: www.amca.org

The Air Movement and control Association International, Inc. is a not-for-profit international association of the
worlds 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.