Hygrometers
Hygrometers, or humidity meters, are devices for measuring the level of water vapour (also known as relative humidity, RH) in the atmosphere or in other gases.
In what applications and environments can hygrometers be used?
Hygrometers find widespread application in the following environments:
- In laboratory or research settings monitoring moisture levels in laboratory incubators, growth chambers, greenhouses and controlled climate cabinets
- In industrial or commercial settings for measuring humidity in confined spaces, rooms or buildings where moisture levels are critical to the activity being performed or to the objects or materials being stored
- Measuring humidity in domestic or residential settings
- Meteorological and climate monitoring
Classic, mechanically-based hygrometers, although less widely used now, include wet/dry bulb hygrometers (also known as psychrometers), and hair tension hygrometers, which rely upon a single (hygroscopic) hair or fibre, under tension, whose length varies with moisture levels.
However, most modern models available on the market today are electronic digital instruments, which measure humidity by means of capacitive or resistive sensors. These digital devices offer clear displays with reliable and consistent performance, and are typically compact, hand-held or benchtop units with minimal footprint. They may also be available in combination with temperature, timer and alarm functionality, or with externally-corded probes and wireless radio-signal connectivity for remote monitoring and data logging. Many operate over a wide temperature range of -5° to +50°C, with a typical measurement range of 0 to 95% Relative Humidity (RH).