What Is an Anemometer?
An anemometer is a measuring instrument used to determine wind speed and wind volume.
It is mainly used in meteorology, environmental monitoring, construction, the energy industry, and the aviation industry to help accurately measure and analyze wind parameters. Anemometers are very important in measuring the amount of ventilation in a building.
Since a typical building is airtight, there is very little air exchange as it is. Therefore, ventilation is provided by ventilation fans and ducts, but the amount of ventilation is defined by the volume of the room and the number of people in the room.
Anemometers are similar to anemometers, but anemometers measure speed. To measure air volume from an anemometer, it is necessary to calculate the area of ducts, etc. Therefore, it is important to distinguish between anemometers and anemometers depending on what you want to measure.
Usage of Anemometers
Anemometers are used to measure whether the appropriate airflow is being controlled. The most common use of an anemometer is to verify that the ventilation rate of a building is being used as required. The ventilation rate of a building is strictly determined by its intended use, and anemometers are used to measure the ventilation rate.
In addition to ventilation, an airflow meter is also used to measure the airflow of dryers used for food and other products. Some foods cannot be dried at high temperatures, so a large amount of cold air with a low dew point is poured into the food to promote drying.
In this case, the airflow rate is as important as the dew point, so anemometers are used to measure the airflow rate.
Principle of Anemometers
Unlike anemometers, anemometers must measure all the airflow coming out of a duct or pipe. Anemometers can measure even a portion of the duct or piping, so they can measure from the number of revolutions of a propeller or the pressure drop across a pitot tube, but anemometers cannot measure wind volume in this way.
Therefore, anemometers are designed to be attached to a large cone or hood, which can then be directly attached to the duct or piping. In addition, high-end models can measure not only at the outlet but also at the inlet.
Basically, there is almost no error by the measurer, but care should be taken to avoid air leakage. In addition, since anemometers are directly attached to ducts, the size of the main unit tends to be large. Another disadvantage is that they are a little difficult to use.
How to Choose an Anemometers
1. Measurement Range
Define the measurement range of the required wind speed according to the intended use of the anemometer. If the selected range of anemometer does not match the actual wind speed, accurate data will not be obtained. Select the optimum range for your application so that the required data can be collected.
2. Availability of Wind Direction Sensor
If wind direction information is required, select anemometers with wind direction sensors. Wind direction information is important in the aviation industry and for construction projects. High accuracy is required because the slightest wind direction can affect projects and operations.
3. Accuracy and Durability
Accuracy of measurement and durability of anemometers are important. Highly accurate and durable models should be selected, especially for long-term use and operation in harsh environments. Ensuring data accuracy and long life improves operational stability.
4. Data Management and Communication Functions
If measurement data management and real-time monitoring are required, anemometers with data recording and communication capabilities should be considered. Easy data collection and sharing will enable efficient operation.
If real-time airflow measurement is required, the speed of the communication function is also important, so the choice should be made after clarifying the intended use.