Thursday 3 December 2009

Measuring Moisture, Humidity and Condensation

Surveyors involved with identifying the causes of dampness in buildings may need to know the humidity and temperature levels in the building, as well as moisture levels in walls / floors. Effectively undertaking seven different types of readings:
1. Surface moisture content
2. Sub-surface moisture content
3. Relative humidity (%RH)
4. Ambient temperature
5. Surface temperature
6. Dew point temperature
7. Condensation

Unfortunately, the readings for moisture content and humidity are not the same. Worse still, they can not converted and require different types of instruments for each task.

If you require both moisture and humidity readings, then there is a simple solution.


Protimeter MMS
The Protimeter MMS (Moisture Measurement System) combines a moisture and humidity meters functionality into one system, effectively five instruments in one unit.

By utilising the operational modes of the Protimeter MMS, the operator can identify the scale and extent of a moisture problem. Establishing if it is due to condensation, rising dampness or lateral ingress. This leads to more thorough and reliable diagnosis.

1. Moisture Meter Modes
The Protimeter MMS may be used as a moisture meter in two operational modes. Measure mode uses pin-type electrodes for surface moisture and Search mode uses a radio frequency technology to provide moisture measurements beneath the surface.

2. Hygrometer Mode
The Protimeter MMS uses the interchangeable Hygrostick sensor to measure humidity and temperature. The Hygrostick may be connected directly into the Protimeter MMS instrument for measuring conditions in rooms and other environments or via an extension lead.

The facility makes the Protimeter MMS an ideal instrument to measure the Equilibrium Relative Humidity (ERH) of walls and floors using the Hygrosticks that have been placed into pre-drilled clearance holes or the humidity box for measuring ERH levels of floors.


3. Condensator Mode
The condensator mode is used for confirming the presence of condensation and risk assessment by comparing surface temperatures, with the dew point of the environment under investigation. When used with the surface temperature sensor the Protimeter MMS can make the following measurements:
- Relative humidity
- Ambient temperature
- Dew point
- Surface temperature
- Difference between surface temperature and dew point


For more information on the Protimeter MMS - http://www.damp-meter-direct.co.uk/Protimeter-MMS.htm