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

Radiodetection CAT4, eCAT4 and Genny4

Radiodetection has launched a new range of cable avoidance tools, the CAT4 and Genny4. Evolving from the previous market leading CAT3 range, the new Radiodetection CAT4 incorporates a new range of ground breaking safety features which enhance cable detection searching.

In an ever more safety-focused industry, operators require precision instruments to find buried utilities, faster and safer than before.

Detect more, detect faster
With the Radiodetection CAT4 is a true digital cable avoidance tool, delivering highly refined location capabilities, specifically designed to help the operator find more buried utilities.

The enhanced Avoidance Mode allows the operator to check an intended excavation area for Power, Radio and Genny signals simultaneously, pinpointing buried utilities in a single scan. Once identified, the separate scanning modes should be utilised to re-enforce their locations especially undertaking a search with a signal generator.

All readings are supported by the bargraph ‘tidemark’ enable an operator to quickly spot a peak response and zero-in on a buried conductor with ‘Real Sound’ providing audio feedback derived directly from the utility located.

A new development incorporated from the higher specification Radiodetection RD7000 and RD8000 models, is the 131kHz frequency which provides a strong trace signal for small bore cables and pipes. When a signal is inducted by the Genny4, the operator using a CAT4 can trace the signal at longer distances.

eCAT4
Developed as part of the CAT4 design is the revolutionary eCAT4 option, which incorporates a range of digital enhancements that support both the operator and fleet mangers alike.

For the first time, onboard systems will record the instruments usage to help establish if the instrument is performing correctly and more importantly if the operative is performing a utility search correctly.


Detect safer
Radiodetection has over 30 year’s expertise in the development of high specification cable avoidance tools. Every product development enhances the safe search of utility services, so it would be no surprise that the new range of Radiodetection CAT4 is packed with improved safety features.

The Radiodetection CAT4 guides users towards better and safer working practices through its StrikeAlert, SWING detector and Service Due date warning.

Dynamic Overload Protection
Radiodetection‘s unique digital signal processing capabilities equips the Radiodetection CAT4 with the ability to reject electrical interference. The cutting edge Dynamic Overload Protection feature provides the CAT4 cable avoidance tool the ability to continue operating in electrically challenging areas, such as near substations and under power cables, where other locators’ detection circuitry may be overloaded and no longer function.

StrikeAlert
Minimise the risk of hitting a shallow cable with the optional StrikeAlert which has been enhanced and optimised to reduce the instances of false warnings.

SWING Warning
A new improvement incorporated into the Radiodetection eCAT4, is the introduction of a swing warning device which warns the operator if the cable avoidance tool is not correctly point to the ground.

Why is this important?
In order for any cable avoidance tool to detect the precise location of buried utilities, the base of the instrument should be pointed to the ground. If pointed away from the ground, the instrument will not detect correctly and the operator can miss vital utilities.

Radiodetection’s research into underground signal detection has shown that the ability of an operator to identify these buried utilities is directly affected by careless working practices such as excessive or rapid swinging.

To further reduce utility strike risks, eCAT4 units are equipped with sensors to detect such incorrect usage and warn the operator with an alert that is also stored in the data log.

Data Acquisition
The Radiodetection eCAT4 series products are equipment with enough onboard memory to store over a year’s worth of the key measurements and modes of operation. When hooked up to a computer running the CAT Manager, fleet managers can access the data and export the instruments log files. Multiple benefits are provided through identifying training and development needs, whilst independent historical records of the instrument’s usage can be maintained.

To match individual preferences or intended use, CAT Manager can disable or enable CAT4 features such as depth estimation and warnings. User-editable fields enable plant/fleet codes and other details to be stored on the unit, simplifying records and traceability.


Signal Generators
When undertaking a utility search, it is vital to conduct the search with a signal generator. The main purpose of a signal generator is to induce a signal in utilities if they are not carrying a power signal i.e. street lamps, BT lines and pipes. For more information, read our article on – Simply Way To Improve Utility Detection.

Radiodetection Genny4
To complement the enhanced digital features of the Radiodetection CAT4, the Radiodetection has developed the Genny4 to provide a new integrated logic design, a class-first simultaneous dual-frequency signal output design.

Alongside the familiar 33kHz locate signal for general purpose locates, the Genny4 transmits a second frequency (131kHz) designed to facilitate location of small diameter cables such as telecoms and street lighting, including spurs. For tricky locates, the new power boost function enables the locate signal to travel further and deeper, and couple onto utilities more easily.

Genny4 Signal Boost
The Radiodetection Genny4 offers, alongside its standard power mode, a Signal Boost feature which increases the output signal by up to 10 times allowing you to locate over extra distance and depth. Additionally, the simultaneous Small Diameter Locate frequency design aids detection of smaller cables including spurs.

Click to view Radiodetection Range

Click to view Radiodetection CAT4 Range

Click to view Radiodetection eCAT4 Range

Click to view Radiodetection Genny4


This article has been developed by Survey Express Services Copyright 2012 Survey Express Services. All rights reserved.


All images supplied by Radiodetection Ltd. Copyright 2012 Radiodetection Ltd. - SPX Corporation. All rights reserved.

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

Leica DISTO X310 Laser Measure

This month Leica Geosystems has launched an extremely tough version of the Leica DISTO range – Leica DISTO X310.

The Leica DISTO X310 overcomes the most common problem with precision measuring devices, their durability onsite. We all knew that from time to time, that an instrument could be accidentally dropped or utilised in a wet condition.

The Leica DISTO X310 is the only laser distance meter which is IP65 certified - dust tight and jet water protected. Furthermore it has been tested by dropping from heights of up to 2 m. To demonstrate this check out the promotion video!

Thanks to the integrated tilt sensor, precise indirect distance and height measurements are possible. The Leica DISTO X310 guarantees reliable measurements under the most extreme conditions too.

Tough enough
Housing and keypad are specially sealed against water and dust and conform to protection class IP65. This means that cleaning it under running water is no problem. On the inside, the device is strengthened with special fibreglass-reinforced plastic bracing. Solid rubber components protect the measuring elements against damage through dropping. These factors make the Leica DISTO X310 an ideal measuring tool for day to day construction site work.

Tilt Sensor
When developing the Leica DISTO X310, an integrated tilt sensor was incorporated into the design to allow site engineers to determine the angle of measurement. The digital tilt sensor allows the instrument to perform inverted measurements in fact 360 degree measurements.

Smart Horizontal Mode
The combination of angle and distance measuring opens completely new possibilities. If e.g. objects do not allow direct measuring of distance, the horizontal distance can be precisely measured using the Smart Horizontal Mode. Heights can be quickly determined with the height tracking too, even if no suitable reflection point is available.

High functionality
The flip-out end piece allows exact location of the Leica DISTO X310 guaranteeing absolutely accurate measurements from edges or out of corners. At the same time the automatic end-piece detection helps to avoid expensive measuring errors.

The Leica DISTO X310 can also calculate rectangular and triangular areas, volumes, room dimensions and various types of Pythagoras functions. A time delay release and sufficient memory for up to 20 measurements round off the multiple functions – providing a genuine labour saving.

Approved to ISO 16331-1 Standard
For the first time, an international standard has been developed to ensure that instruments perform to the manufactuers specifications. When specifiying an instrument, ensure it is approved to the ISO 16331-1 standard, like the Leica DISTO X310!
Click for more information on ISO 16331-1

Well the Leica DISTO X310 is the toughest instrument featuring the highest IP65 rating, 360 degree digital tilt sensor, highest measuring accuracy, enhanced features and improved operation. Oh yes, it means the ISO standard for laser measuring devices which means you can realy on the Leica DISTO D210!

Click for more information on the Leica DISTO X310

Leica DISTO D210 Laser Measure

This month sees a new instrument being introduced into the Leica DISTO range – Leica DISTO D210.

Developed in Switzerland, the Leica DISTO D210 fulfils all the requirements of professional trades with the highest quality standards and achieves a measuring accuracy of ± 1.0 mm. Equipped with an array of functions and designed to be the easiest instrument to operate.

The Leica DISTO D210 is a handy and functional laser distance meter which makes measuring easy, fast and reliable.

Improved Laser Optics
Leica Geosystems are synonymous with quality and precision, so with the Leica DISTO D210, the laser and glass optics have been upgraded to provide an enhance measuring accuracy of ± 1.0 mm up to 80m!

Handy and easy to use
Thanks to its ergonomic and compact design with soft grip, the Leica DISTO D210 sits securely in your hand. The keys have been increased in size and the reinforced housing is encased in soft rubber housing.

To help safeguard against accidental operation, the Leica DISTO D210 can be locked to stop the keys being pressed in the pocket.

The 3-line display makes it possible to read off individual and final readings of several measurements at a glance, e.g. area and volume calculations - and thanks to display illumination, even in the dark.

Automatic Multifunctional End-Piece
Leica has introduced the foldout multifunctional end-piece which automatically detects the position. This guarantees that measurements from edges or out of corners are one hundred per cent accurate. At the same time the automatic end-piece detection helps to avoid expensive measuring errors.

Easy and functional
Distances can be measured and areas or volumes calculated at the touch of a button. At the same time, the last ten results are saved and can be accessed as required. Adding and subtracting distances and areas are child's play with the Leica DISTO D210 too.

Staking out equal distances has never been easier: the device emits an acoustic signal as soon as the preset value or a multiple of it has been reached.

Approved to ISO 16331-1 Standard
For the first time, an international standard has been developed to ensure that instruments perform to the manufactuers specifications. When specifiying an instrument, ensure it is approved to the ISO 16331-1 standard, like the Leica DISTO D210!
Click for more information on ISO 16331-1

Well the Leica DISTO D210 features higher measuring prescion, increased range, enhanced features and improved operation. Oh yes, it means the ISO standard for laser measuring devices which means you can realy on the Leica DISTO D210!

Click for more information on the Leica DISTO D210

ISO Standard - Laser Measure

Ever since Leica Geosystems created the first hand held laser measuring device, there has never been clear guidance or standard to verify laser measuring devices between manufacturers. On paper, instruments from different manufacturers may feature the same measuring specification, but in practical terms they will not.

Why is this?
The range and accuracy of laser distance meters depend on light conditions and reflectivity of the measuring target. For Leica Geosystems it is important that the instruments not only perform under perfect laboratory conditions, but above all under the kind of everyday working conditions encountered on construction sites.

Working together with external experts, Leica Geosystems have developed a standard by which laser distance meters can be tested and compared with each other.

Differing factors, such as the structure of the surface and the colour of the measuring point, the strength of ambient light and the temperature at which a measurement is taken, have a very significant effect on the accuracy and the maximum range achieved.

These factors have not previously been defined by a standard, each manufacturer has used its own definition. It has therefore become increasingly difficult for the customer to make a comparison between the large and growing number of laser distance meters on the market. However, misunderstandings or imprecise data can result in serious unreliability of measurements or even expensive errors.

The new ISO Standard 16331-1, to which Leica Geosystems has made a significant contribution, defines in detail how information concerning accuracy and range must be presented and describes the necessary measuring procedures. This renders specifications of laser distance meters capable of being tested by independent institutions, thus making direct comparisons possible.

The ISO Standard 16331-1 takes the following measuring conditions into account:

Measurement under favourable conditions

Measurement under favourable conditions which often apply for interior use:
• Weak ambient light (3k lux)
• Measuring to white painted wall
• Room temperature


Measurement under unfavourable conditions

Measurement under unfavourable conditions which often apply for exterior use:
• Bright sunshine (30k lux)
• Measuring to white painted wall
• Total operating temperature range


Other measuring conditions can also be specified, for example:

• Measuring to a defined target plate
• Measuring to unfavourable measuring points with strong or weak reflectivity (metal surface or wet concrete)


A customer who purchases a laser distance meter which conforms to the ISO standard can arrive at reliable conclusions with respect to the maximum range and accuracy achievable under defined measuring conditions. This is crucial for assessing the advantages for everyday use on the construction site.


Check out the Leica DISTO range