Protimeter MMS2 Moisture Meter

Protimeter MMS2

The Protimeter MMS (Moisture Measurement System) has been the main stay for professional surveyors for its ability to provide the widest range of moisture measurements from one instrument. Many professionals have invested in the Protimeter MMS as a tool for helping them assess moisture levels and to diagnose the cause of dampness problems in buildings.

Until now, the Protimeter MMS has been the only single-instrument package that enables a surveyor to measure and detect moisture levels in building materials, to measure environmental relative humidity, temperature and surface temperature levels, and to establish if condensation is occurring on surfaces. As part of the package, a comprehensive range of accessories is supplied to ensure a thorough inspection can be undertaken.

Introducing the Protimeter MMS2
Now, GE has launched the Protimeter MMS2, which replaces the original MMS instrument (BLD5800), see the comparison below. The new design is simpler and more intuitive to use. Whereas the original Protimeter MMS frequently required two handed operation, the majority of the measurements can be taken single-handed with the Protimeter MMS2.

Selecting the operational mode is now menu driven and simple to follow. Interpretation of the measurements is also simpler, as a colour coded display is used to identify dry, borderline and damp conditions.


Left: Protimeter MMS (old version)
Right: Protimeter MMS2 (new version)

Clearer Presentation of Readings
The display provides a clearer presentation of the readings and additional information of the status of the instrument. Where required, the moisture readings will be supported with a colour (Green, Yellow, Red) indicator to tell the user if the readings are good, borderline or too damp.



Enhanced Button Configuration
The button configuration allows the operator to scroll through the instruments functions. The onboard software is concise and easy to navigate.

Laser Thermometer
But the biggest development is the inclusion of the laser thermometer. In the first Protimeter MMS, a separate surface thermometer sensor is required. On occasions the surveyor would require more than two hands to undertake the operation whilst holding the instrument.

With the integrated laser thermometer, the operator simply points the laser dot onto the surface to take the reading. The Protimeter MMS2 takes the reading and if required, automatically incorporates it into the moisture calculation.


Smaller Humidity Sensor
A small humidity sensor is housed at the rear of the instrument based on the Hygrostick. This reduces the overall dimension of the instrument. However, if the user requires the digital Quickstick, this can be attached.



Direct Moisture Measurements
The Protimeter MMS2 incorporates two metal pins housed at the top of the instrument to undertake direct moisture measurements. Similarly measurements using the radio mode can be undertaken as normal through a sensor housed on the reverse of the instrument.


Condensation Assessment
When undertaking a condensation assessment, the Protimeter MMS2 can perform the measurement through a single operation. The Protimeter MMS2 unit body incorporates a hygrostick for air and humidity readings and a laser thermometer for surface readings.

The temperature sensor allows the user to measure the surface temperature from a distance, ideal in a kitchen or bathroom where step ladders would normally be required.

By combining all essential accessories into the unit as standard, field operatives benefit from a simpler, easier to use instrument, undertaking the condensation assessments quicker than before.



Click for more information visit www.damp-meter-direct.co.uk

How To Detect Moisture In A Building

Detecting moisture in buildings is relatively simple with the right instrument and following the correct procedure.

There are multiple reasons why moisture can enter a building structure, but for the purpose of this article we will look at how to detect moisture using electronic equipment.

But what is moisture?
Moisture can be found throughout the building structure in differing levels and can fluctuate throughout the year. For most of the time, this will be minor atmospheric moisture absorbed by the building material or covering (wall paper and flooring).

However, moisture is a hazard long before you see it and will not become visibly damp until it is too late. Degradation of the material will start before it can be detected with human senses like touch.

Building materials are like sponges, featuring a porous structure which absorbs water. If water enters a property, it can travel for the primary source to a secondary material. This ‘diffusion’ drives the mositure to dry areas and eventually the surface where you would normally encounter a problem.

Surface moisture can dry through evaporation caused by air movement. But in most cases the surface has a covering (wall paper, paint or wood flooring) which acts as a barrier stopping evaporation. Initially you will not encounter a problem until the moisture level reaches a point that causes the covering to lift, peel or crack.
When undertaking an inspection of a property, a good surveyor should check both the surface and sub-surface moisture levels. This will ensure that any potential problems are spotted before it’s too late.

How to detect moisture
When undertaking a moisture reading of a building structure, there are three test that can be performed; surface moisture reading, sub-surface moisture reading and humidity.

Protimeter Mini taking a reading with pins

1. Surface Moisture Readings
Measuring the surface moisture is a relatively simple process utilising a pin type electronic moisture reading device.

Both the Protimeter Mini and Protimeter Surveymaster incorporate two metal pins at the top of the instrument. By placing these pins on the surface, the instrument reads the moisture levels between the pins. Higher the water level will generate a higher moisture reading.

The readings are displayed through a simple coloured LEDs. Green for good, yellow for borderline and red for bad. So simply, if the reading is in the green the moisture level is at a 'no risk' level.

If the reading displays a yellow LED, the surveyor should determine if further inspection of the building structure should be undertaken. If the reading is in the red, the moisture level is too high and the surveyor should undertake a further assessment.

With the Protimeter Surveymaster, the readings are supported with a LCD display providing a digital reading of the moisture level.


2. Sub-surface Moisture Readings
Sub surface readings are an important indication of the moisture condition of the building structure. More moisture will be locked inside the building material than on the surface.

Protmeter Surveymaster using the search mode

Non-invasive
Protimeter has developed a non-invasive search mode which penetrates to a depth of 20mm. The return signal will be displayed digitally through a simple LCD display between 0 to 1000 REL. The REL stands for relative reading and is an indication of the moisture level.

Again a simple LED display employed to provide a quick determination of the reading. If the moisture level is too high, a further invasive test should be undertaken.

Both the Protimeter Aquant and Protimeter Surveymaster are equipment with this method of moisture detection.

Protimeter Mini using deep wall probes for electrical conductivity test

Electrical Conductivity
One further method for measuring sub-surface moisture is to drill two holes and pass a deep wall probe into the wall. The moisture readings are measured by the electrical conductivity through the material. Higher the reading the larger amount of water is present. This provides an important additional check to determine the extent of moisture in a material like a wall or concrete structure.

This can be undertaken with the Protimeter Mini, Protimeter Surveymaster and Protimeter MMS2 models.

Protimeter MMS undertaking a humidity and condensation test

3. Humidity Test
Commonly within a property a high level of humidity will be generated through general living conditions. Either through cooking, taking a shower or even breathing, moisture will be released into the environment.

Without proper air circulation, the first thing you may see is condensation on windows or tiles. In server conditions, wall paper will start to peel off and mould will grow.

By utilising a Protimeter Hygromaster, Protimeter Pysclone or Protmeter MMS2, the surveyor will be able to take a digital reading of the humidity levels.

All readings are displayed as a %RH (Relative Humidity) supported with either a temperature reading or dew point reading.

If the reading is above 70%RH, the moisture levels within the environment are high enough for bacteria to grow. It’s the bacteria that breaks down the building materials and causes damage.

With the Protimeter MMS2, a condensation test can be performed. This runs through the relevant moisture and temperature readings to determine if there is a condensation issue.


Further Reading

If you would like more information on moisture
Dampness Measurement in Concrete Floors
How to Measure Moisture in Buildings


If you would like more information on the Protimeter range, please visit www.damp-meter-direct.co.uk
Protimeter Mini
Protimeter Aquant
Protimeter Surveymaster
Protimeter Hygomaster
Protimeter Pysclone
Protimeter MMS2

Protimeter Moisture Meters

Protimeter is a premium range of professional moisture measuring instruments for surveyors, flooring contractors and assessors alike.

Originally from Marlow in Buckinghamshire, Protimeter has been at the forefront of moisture meter design for over 40 years and has developed many of the technologies that are central to moisture measurement and dampness diagnosis within the built environment.

In 2001 Protimeter was acquired by the General Electric Company and became part of what is now the GE Measurement and Control business. This is a business that “sets best practice today and constantly explores solutions for tomorrow, all in an effort to keep their customers at the front edge of quality, safety, service and productivity”.

Protimeter = Higher Quality
Protimeter instruments are designed for professional use. They last longer, function better and provide a higher level of measuring confidence than many other products that are available. With a 2-year warranty the instruments are the best choice for demanding moisture measurement applications.

‘I have been involved with Protimeter for many years, and commonly customers comment on the superior quality of these instruments.’ comments Ian Guest, Marketing Manager, Survey Express Services. ‘We have found no other range of moisture meters that operate better than Protimeter and that last as long.’

Protimeter Range
Protimeter produce a range of devices that includes the simple Salts Analysis Test Kit, electronic moisture meters and hygrometer and the highly specialised Speedy Moisture Tester.

The entry level moisture meter is the Protimeter Mini, with two pin-electrodes and a colour coded LED scale. The Protimeter Aquant is a moisture detector that transmits radio waves for sub-surface moisture detection, without the need for drilling into the surface. The Protimeter Surveymaster combines the functionality of the Mini and Aquant into one instrument, enabling the user to distinguish surface from sub-surface moisture levels.

Environmental humidity and temperature levels can be measured by the Protimeter Hygromaster and Protimeter Pysclone thermohygrometers. Both instruments also calculate the prevailing dewpoint temperature, and both can be used with a surface temperature sensor for condensation risk assessment applications.

The Protimeter MMS (Moisture Measuring System) combines the functionality of the Mini moisture meter, the Aquant moisture detector and the Hygromaster into one multi-functional moisture measurement tool. The MMS is the logical choice for professionals that need to fully understand the moisture levels of the building itself and of the environment within the building.

The Protimeter Timbermaster is optimised for measuring moisture levels in wood specifically. It has eight user selectable calibration groups that enable more precise measurement in over 150 different wood species. When necessary, the Timbermaster can also be used with a temperature probe for temperature correction and with a Hammer Electrode for sub-surface measurement.

The Salts Analysis Test Kit is used to assess relative levels of nitrates and chlorides on site when investigating the cause of dampness problems. High levels of hygroscopic salts contamination can affect moisture meter readings, so it is often necessary to test for their presence when diagnosing dampness problems in buildings. Additionally, high salts contamination can indicate problems associated with rising dampness, as they are present in ground water.

The Speedy Moisture Tester measures the moisture content of a sample of building material by chemical reaction in a vessel. It complements moisture meters and hygrometers, and is often used to measure material that may have been contaminated by conductors such as hygroscopic salts.

For more information on the Protimeter range visit our website www.damp-meter-direct.co.uk

Protimeter Moisture Measurement Kits

When surveying buildings for moisture problems, or evaluating damage due to fire or flood, having the right tools close to hand and easily accessible allows you to quickly complete a professional diagnosis.

Protimeter has developed several complete kits, providing a convenient, durable solution for carrying your moisture measurement needs.

Supplied within a hard carrying case, the Protimeter Restoration kit and Protimeter Technician’s kit includes the latest Protimeter instruments and accessories, as well as the heavy duty hammer probe.

Features and Benefits
• Complete kit containing all accessories
• Includes Heavy Duty Hammer Electrode
• Reduced cost than purchasing the parts separately
• Heavy duty, long-lasting durable case
• Separate compartment for all items, reducing the risk of lost parts
• Provides a dust-free, protected environment
• Easy access to all accessories
• Professional appearance



Protimeter Restoration Kit (BLD5900)
If you are looking for a complete kit for testing moisture in structures, testing humidity, checking for condensation and have a requirement for data capture, then the Protimeter Restoration Kit provides it all.

The Protimeter Restoration kit has been developed as the premium, all-in-one building and surveyor's kit. Comprising of Protimeter's renowned professional Protimeter Moisture Measurement System (MMS), a complete moisture measuring system with the heavy-duty hammer probe (BLD5055).

The Protimeter MMS is a complete moisture measurement device for use in many different building related industries. The Protimeter MMS combines pin type and non-invasive modes of measurement together with a thermo-hygrometer in one state-of-the-art instrument.

The Protimeter MMS can be used as a hygrometer to measure the relative humidity, dew point, mixing ratio (grains per pound/parts per million by weight) and ambient temperature are shown at the touch of a button.

When surface temperature measurements are required, the Protimeter MMS can fitted with the surface temperature sensor making this instrument especially suitable for condensation risk assessment and diagnosis.

Protimeter Technician's Kit (BLD5905)
If you are looking for a kit for testing moisture in structures, testing humidity, without the requirement for data logging, then the Protimeter Techinican's Kit is better suited.

The Protimeter Techinican's kit has been developed for techinician's who spend most of their time out of office and require professional instruments to undertake a range of moisture / humidity examinations.

Comprising of two instruments, Protimeter Surveymaster with the Protimeter Psyclone, the Techinican's kit allows surveyors to undertake building and humidity surveys. For assessing deeper moisture problems, the kit includes deep wall probes and a a heavy-duty hammer probe (BLD5055) which allows the surveyor to drive pins into thicker wood or plaster.


2-Year Warranty
As Protimeter's Premier dealer, we are proud to offer an upgraded no quibble 2-year warranty on this instrument. For more information, please visit the warranty page.

For more information on Protimeter moisture meters
For more information on Protimeter Surveymaster
For more information on Protimeter Psyclone
For more information on Protimeter MMS
For more information on Protimeter Kits

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