Key Traits Of Air Quality Measurement Equipment

There are many different components of air quality that we measure – measure air temperature, humidity, air speed, air flow visualization, surface temperature, gases and dust. Of course, to measure air quality you need to have air quality measurement equipment and to measure all of the separate components, you need to have various items or equipment. Below we will go over each aspect of air quality and what equipment you may need to get accurate results.

Temperature is of course measured with something we all know as a thermometer. It is important to make sure that the thermometer isn’t exposed to any radiant energy like direct sunlight or over a heater. You want to place the thermometer somewhere in the middle of the room but in a place where there is nothing to obstruct it. You can use an older more traditional thermometer, but many people are now using a digital thermometer as they are more accurate.

Humidity refers to how much moisture is in the air and how much of the moisture differs in temperature. Measuring humidity is a two step process which includes using a wet bulb and dry bulb where you obtain both temperatures. Then you convert said temperatures using a psychrometric chart. Traditionally, an instrument called a sling psychrometer is used which contains both thermometers, but you can also use an aspirated psychrometer and the readings are usually more accurate.

Air speed is usually measured with something called an anemometer. In many industries, you will find that the most common types of anemometers are vane anemometers and hot-wire anemometers. The difference all comes down to what kind of air flow you wish to measure. Both of these anemometers are made up of two parts, one displays the air speed, and the other is a sensing probe. The best way to get an accurate reading of air flow is to measure it in an undisturbed place, meaning that you should stand away from the equipment while the air flow is being measured.

Air flow visualization is needed in some industries to make sure that any workers or animals are comfortable in their environment. The most common tools used in air flow visualization are smoke candles, smoke sticks and smoke guns. It is important to note that some of the smoke may contain harmful chemicals so you might want to check with the manufacturer before using. If the item you plan on using is harmful, then make sure the room is empty of personnel and animals before you use it.

Surface temperature also plays an important part of comfort in some industries. Some thermometers will not pick up just how hot the floor or area is that you might have to work in and just pick up the air surrounding it. An infrared thermometer is needed to measure surface temperature and it almost looks like a small hair dryer. To get the most accurate reading, make sure you measure everything from the perspective of the animal or person working in that area.

Gas levels and dust are other things that can affect air quality which you should take into consideration. An easy and effective way to measure gas is with a sampler pump. It is fitted with detector tubes which detect different types of gasses and change colour indicating whether that gas is present or not. Dust is by far the most difficult and expensive air quality to measure. The most reliable way to measure dust is to take an air sample and send it to a lab which specifically deals with dust.

For the best overall reading of air quality, you should be using a variety of air quality measurement equipment. You can find all the tools you need in speciality stores or you can do a quick search online to find all the equipment you need. Air quality is something that is vital to working in a pleasant and hazard-free environment so testing the air quality is something we need to do.