Environmental parameters significant in industrial applications
Environmental parameters play a significant role in industry and built-up
environments. By measuring and controlling these parameters, it is possible to
influence e.g. product quality, the efficiency of manufacturing processes,
energy consumption, and the safety and well-being of people.
Relative humidity - high quality, low energy consumption
Relative humidity is one of the most important factors affecting indoor air
quality. By measuring and controlling relative humidity, it is possible to
ensure a pleasing working and living environment for people.
Most materials have their own ideal storage humidity levels, and maintaining
these help to ensure the quality of stored material for as long as possible. In
many production processes, it is extremely important to measure and adjust
humidity correctly in order to sustain the high quality of products and the
correct level of energy consumption.
Dewpoint - indicating absolute humidity
Dewpoint is especially measured in processes where the formation of dew can
be a problem or where it is important to know the precise water content of air
or gas. Dewpoint measurement has become popular in many industrial applications
such as metal treatment, compressed air systems, and plastic drying. For
instance, dew formation should be avoided in compressed air pipelines because
moisture can damage or clog the equipment.
Barometric pressure - weather information and performance
Barometric pressure is one of the most important parameters in weather
observation because the movement of pressure fronts indicates the direction in
which weather fronts are heading. Weather stations almost always include a
barometer, and barometers are also used in data buoys and ships at sea.
Barometric absolute pressure influences other physical and industrial processes
as well. For example, engine performance is affected by air intake pressure.
Carbon dioxide - better indoor air quality
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is one of the most common gases in our atmosphere. It is
formed when humans and animals breathe, in fermentation and decomposition
processes, and during the burning of fossil fuels. Carbon dioxide levels are
also a good indicator of indoor air quality and ventilation efficiency, as it is
people who release carbon dioxide to the indoor environment. By controlling
ventilation according to carbon dioxide levels, indoor air can be kept fresh
without wasting energy. Carbon dioxide is also used as a fertilizer in
greenhouses.
Oxygen level - successful fermentation processes
Vaisala oxygen level measurement instruments have been developed for
different industrial applications. For example, breweries and wineries, which
use fermentation processes, need oxygen and carbon dioxide measurement
instruments. Vaisala oxygen and carbon dioxide instruments can also be used for
controlling air conditioning systems and maintaining safe oxygen and carbon
dioxide levels. Another important oxygen measurement application is in
petrochemistry.