When it comes to industrial applications, dew point sensors are becoming increasingly important. These sensors are used in various applications such as compressed air systems, air pressure pipelines, and drying processes. But what exactly is a dew point sensor and how does it work?
Understanding Dew Point
Dew point is the temperature at which water vapors in the air form dew or frost. When the air reaches its maximum capacity to hold water vapor, condensation occurs. This maximum amount of water vapor is referred to as water vapor saturation pressure. Any additional water vapor beyond this point results in condensation.
Industries that rely on maintaining low levels of condensation need to monitor the dew point. Excessive moisture can lead to clogged pipes, machinery breakdowns, and contamination. Therefore, selecting a dew point meter with the correct measuring range is crucial for monitoring and controlling the dew point.
How Dew Point Sensors Work
Dew point sensors, also known as condensation monitors, are used in building technology to assess the risk of condensation formation. These sensors are typically placed in climate-controlled ceilings, pipelines, or control cabinets to detect condensation before it can cause damage.
The working principle of a dew point sensor is based on impedance. The sensor consists of layers, with two electrodes on either side of an absorbent layer. As gas passes over the sensor, it absorbs water vapor onto a porous hygroscopic dielectric area between conductive layers on a ceramic substrate. The presence of water molecules changes the dielectric constant (K) of the sensor, resulting in a change in impedance.
Analyzing hewlett-packard (hpe) stock price: trends, factors, and analyst targetsApplications of Dew Point Monitoring
Reliable dew point sensors enable high-precision measurement based on the hygrometric principle. They are ideal for various applications, including:
- Early condensation detection on surfaces
- Dew point measurement in compressed air systems, industrial drying processes, and refrigeration dryers
- Mobile, selective dew point measurement for HVAC applications using handheld meter technology
Dry compressed air is crucial for many industrial processes. Plants are installing dew point measuring instruments to protect equipment, save energy, and prevent over-drying. Some common industries that rely on dew point monitoring include:
- Medical and breathing air: Dew point monitoring is required to ensure safe breathing conditions in medical gas and breathing air regulations.
- Plastics drying: Proper dryer performance prevents wasted materials and production downtime while ensuring product quality.
- Food and pharmaceutical industries: Compressed air is used in various applications, including coating quality control, filling, and packaging.
- Mass Transit: Dew point measurement in compressed air systems is essential for the safety and reliability of brakes, doors, and AC systems in trains, buses, and other mass transit vehicles.
Hewlett Packard Dew Point Sensors
At Hewlett Packard, we offer a range of dew point transmitters designed for different applications. Our dew point sensors include:
Shaw SDT
- Dew point ranges from -100 to +20 °C (-148 to +68 °F)
- Accuracy of ± 0 °C (± 6 °F) dew point temperature
- Output of 4 – 20 mA, 2-wire loop powered, 24 Vdc
- Weather-proof rating NEMA 4X (IP66)
Shaw SDT-Ex
- Dew point ranges from -100 to +20 °C (-148 to +68 °F)
- Accuracy of ± 2 °C (± 6 °F) dew point temperature
- Output of 4 – 20 mA, 3-wire technology, 24 Vdc
- Intrinsically Safe to ATEX standards
Mini EE354
- Designed for refrigeration dryers
- Dew point range from -20 to +50 °C (-4 to +122 °F)
- Accuracy of ± 1 °C (± 8 °F)
- Output of 4 – 20 mA, 3-wire technology
- ModBus RTU Digital interface
OEM EE355
- Dew point range from -60 to +60 °C (-76 to 140 °F)
- Accuracy of ≤ ± 2 °C (± 6 °F)
- Output of 4 – 20 mA, 3-wire technology
- ModBus RTU Digital interface
Compact EE371
- Dew point range from -60 to +60 °C (-76 to 140 °F)
- Accuracy of ≤ 2 °C (6 °F) / 5 ppm + 9% of reading
- 2 scaleable analogue outputs: Td, Tf or X(v)
- 2 potential free relays
- Auto-calibration LC Display (optional)
For more information on our dew point sensors or other products, such as our industrial flow meters, please don't hesitate to contact us. We'll be happy to answer any questions you have or assist you in placing an order.
The Range of Dew Point Sensors
When it comes to choosing dew point meters, CS Instruments offers a wide range of options. Their dew point measurement equipment is proven and reliable, ensuring the required product quality in compressed air and gas systems.
Hpe careers: professional growth opportunities at hewlett packard enterpriseCS Instruments offers stationary and mobile solutions for dew point monitoring of refrigeration, desiccant, or membrane dryers. Their dew point sensors can measure very low dew points down to -80 °C, with extreme long-term stability due to internal automatic calibration. The sensors are housed in IP65-rated enclosures, providing reliable protection in extreme industrial conditions. Additionally, CS Instruments' dew point meters offer fast response times and can be easily installed in dryers.
The standard interfaces for CS Instruments' dew point sensors are 4-20mA, Modbus RTU, or M-Bus. These sensors can also be combined with data loggers for comprehensive monitoring and analysis. CS Instruments' dew point meters are suitable for various gases, including air, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrogen, oxygen, natural gas, argon, hydrogen, and more.
Dew point measurement is essential in many applications to prevent condensation and ensure the efficient operation of systems. CS Instruments' dew point sensors are designed to meet the highest standards and provide accurate and reliable measurements.
It is important to note that the atmospheric dew point is not significant for compressed air applications. The pressure dew point, which is the temperature to which the compressed air can be cooled without any condensation, is the key parameter to consider.
Hewlett Packard and CS Instruments offer a range of dew point sensors that are crucial for monitoring and controlling condensation in various industrial applications. These sensors work based on impedance and provide accurate and reliable measurements of the dew point.
Hp - leading provider of technology products and servicesBy selecting the right dew point sensor and monitoring system, industries can prevent damage to equipment, save energy, and ensure product quality. Whether it's in compressed air systems, drying processes, or other applications, dew point sensors play a critical role in maintaining optimal conditions and preventing condensation-related issues.
For more information on dew point sensors or to discuss your specific requirements, feel free to contact Hewlett Packard or CS Instruments. Our experienced teams will be happy to assist you in finding the right solution for your needs.