New FAST way to increased accuracy of the Optidew Cooled Mirror Hygrometer

Michell instruments has developed a new technology to increase the accuracy and reliability of their cooled mirror instruments. The Frost Assurance System Technology (FAST) works by ensuring that, for temperatures below 0°C, the ‘dew point’ reading is always taken from the formation of ice crystals, rather than water droplets.

The new system is now being incorporated into the Optidew range of cooled mirror instruments. Although these hygrometers are already highly accurate, being able to give moisture readings down to a level of -40°Cdp, some applications need even higher levels of accuracy.

Water doesn’t always freeze at 0°C – in some circumstances super-cooled water can exist at much lower temperatures. This can be caused by contaminants in the gas being tested for moisture, or even build up of residue on the cooled mirror surface. Super-cooled water condenses at a slightly different temperature to ‘normal’ ice formation, and the errors involved are typically equal to 10%.

Michell Instruments' FAST technology was invented in order to avoid this effect by taking a specially developed routine where the mirror temperature is controlled and adjusted at certain levels. This means that accurate and reliable readings can be taken time and time again with no human intervention needed.

Michell Instruments FAST technology is currently available on the Optidew range of cooled mirror instruments.