Kanomax KA25 Thermal Anemometer with Air Velocity and Temperature Measurement

Overview

The Kanomax KA25 Thermal Anemometer is a portable, handheld instrument engineered for precise, real-time measurement of air velocity and ambient temperature in HVAC commissioning, indoor air quality (IAQ) assessment, cleanroom validation, and industrial ventilation system audits. It operates on the constant-temperature anemometry (CTA) principle: a heated thermistor sensor dissipates heat proportional to local airflow—enabling direct quantification of mass flow rate in clean, dry air environments. Unlike cup or vane anemometers, the KA25 delivers high sensitivity at low velocities (down to 0.01 m/s), making it suitable for laminar flow characterization and duct traverse surveys where minimal flow disturbance is critical. Its compact body and fully telescopic, bendable probe (294–1060 mm) allow access to confined ducts, grilles, and ceiling-mounted diffusers without disassembly.

Key Features

• Simultaneous dual-parameter measurement: air velocity (0.01–20.0 m/s) and temperature (−20–70 °C)
• High-resolution velocity detection with 0.01 m/s resolution and ±(3% rdg + 0.03 m/s) accuracy per ISO 16813 and ASHRAE Guideline 12
• Intelligent volumetric airflow calculation: supports rectangular and circular duct geometries; accepts user-input dimensions (0.1–255.0 cm) and auto-computes m³/h
• Configurable time constant (1 s / 5 s / 10 s / 20 s) to optimize dynamic response for transient or steady-state conditions
• On-device statistical functions: real-time display of min/max/average values across continuous sampling intervals
• Three-level adjustable backlight LCD with intuitive icon-based navigation and persistent data hold
• Telescopic and bendable probe (Φ6 mm sensing tip, Φ14 mm handle) for non-intrusive insertion into tight or angled ductwork
• Auto-power-off (selectable 3/5/10 min) and battery level indicator extend operational uptime to ~15 hours on standard AA alkaline cells

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The KA25 is validated for use in clean, non-corrosive, particle-free air streams—consistent with ISO 14644-3 requirements for cleanroom airflow verification. It is not rated for humid, oily, or particulate-laden environments (e.g., exhaust stacks or spray booths), nor for gases other than ambient air. The probe’s operating temperature range (−20–70 °C) supports field deployment in unconditioned mechanical rooms, rooftop units, and outdoor intake assessments. While not intrinsically safe or explosion-proof, its design conforms to IEC 61010-1 for electrical safety in laboratory and industrial settings. Calibration traceability follows NIST-traceable standards via Kanomax’s certified service centers; routine verification against reference pitot-static systems is recommended per ISO/IEC 17025 guidelines.

Software & Data Management

The KA25 operates as a standalone field instrument with no proprietary PC software dependency. All measurements—including timestamped min/max/avg sets, duct geometry inputs, and time-constant selections—are retained in volatile memory during active operation and displayed in real time. Data export is manual: users record readings directly from the LCD screen during duct traverses or spot checks. For audit readiness, the device supports GLP-aligned documentation practices—its stable calibration, fixed sensor geometry, and repeatable response characteristics enable consistent inter-operator comparability. Though lacking USB or Bluetooth connectivity, its deterministic behavior and documented uncertainty budget (per ISO/IEC 17025 Clause 7.6.3) make it suitable for ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 internal monitoring protocols.

Applications

• HVAC system balancing and TAB (Testing, Adjusting, Balancing) per ASHRAE Standard 111
• Cleanroom airflow uniformity mapping in pharmaceutical and microelectronics facilities (ISO 14644-3 Annex B)
• Exhaust hood face velocity verification under OSHA 1910.145 and ANSI Z9.5
• Indoor environmental quality (IEQ) assessments per LEED IEQ Credit 1 and WELL Building Standard W02
• Energy audit pre-survey for duct leakage estimation and fan system efficiency screening
• Educational labs requiring robust, entry-level thermal anemometry with tactile probe control

FAQ

What is the recommended recalibration interval for the KA25?
Kanomax recommends annual recalibration against a traceable reference standard. More frequent verification (e.g., quarterly) is advised in high-use field applications or after mechanical shock.
Can the KA25 measure airflow in exhaust ducts containing moisture or oil vapor?
No. The thermal sensor is susceptible to fouling and drift in contaminated airstreams. Use only in clean, dry air per manufacturer specifications.
Does the KA25 support multi-point traverse averaging with automatic area weighting?
No. It provides arithmetic mean of sequential point readings; users must apply duct cross-sectional area manually or via external spreadsheet per ISO 12599 Annex C.
Is the probe interchangeable with other Kanomax models such as the 6162 or 6501?
No. The KA25 uses a proprietary connector and firmware-matched sensor; probes are not cross-compatible across Kanomax product lines.
What is the lowest measurable velocity with acceptable uncertainty?
At 0.10 m/s, combined expanded uncertainty (k=2) is ≤ ±0.06 m/s, meeting typical HVAC commissioning tolerances for supply diffuser testing.