SMOKE FIELD MANUAL
Cabin Filtration Protocol for PM2.5 Events
Garland, TX // 2026
DIAGNOSTIC
SITUATION: Wildfire smoke blanket detected. AQI exceeds 150.
SYMPTOM: Visible haze, acrid odor, respiratory irritation.
ROOT CAUSE: Particulate Matter (PM2.5) ingress via HVAC intake.
TARGET: Seal the cabin. Recirculate. Filter.
IMMEDIATE ACTION
- RECIRCULATION MODE: Engage immediately. Cut external air intake.
- FAN SPEED: Maximum. Flow rate > filter capacity = bypass.
- VENT CLOSE: Windows, sunroof, trunk seals verified.
- FILTER CHECK: Replace OEM cabin filter with activated carbon variant.
FILTRATION SPECS
| PARAMETER | OEM STANDARD | CRISIS UPGRADE | CAPTURE RATE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Media Type | Polypropylene fiber | Activated Carbon + Electrostatic | N/A |
| Pore Size | >5μm | <2.5μm | PM2.5 Target |
| Flow Resistance | Low (comfort) | High (protection) | Fan Load ↑ |
| Carbon Loading | 0g | ≥300g/m² | Organic Vapor Capture |
| Service Life | 12 months | Replace NOW | Event Duration |
SOURCE: EPA Air Toxics Handbook // SAE J2905 Cabin Filtration Test Procedure
VISUAL VERIFICATION
FIG 1. Inspect media integrity. Tears > 2mm = immediate replacement.
FAILURE MODES
BYPASS EVENT: Filter saturated, airflow seeks path of least resistance. Result: Unfiltered smoke enters cabin.
SOLUTION: Dual-stage filtration. Pre-filter (coarse) protects primary (fine).
SEAL BREACH: Window gaskets aged > 5 years. Pressure differential forces ingress.
SOLUTION: Silicone spray treatment. Verify closure force.
COMMUNITY PROTOCOL
This manual is live data. Share it. Adapt it.
CROSS-LINK: Eneida Rodriguez — Smoke Visibility Protocol for transit fleets. Her equations decide if the bus moves; ours decides if you breathe.
CITATION: EPA PM Basics // Current Event: Midwest Smoke Blanket