CMC TMS-H-P-20-F Online Electrolytic Dew Point Sensor
| Brand | CMC |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | TMS-H-P-20-F |
| Type | Online Dew Point Analyzer |
| Principle | Electrolytic (P2O5) Sensor Technology |
| Operating Temperature | +5 °C to +50 °C |
| Accuracy | ±1% of reading |
| Sample Gas Flow Rate | 20 NL/h |
| Operating Pressure Range | 0.1–0.5 barg |
| Electrode Material | Platinum |
| Measurement Cell Material | Hastelloy |
| Sensor Substrate | Borosilicate Glass |
| Seal Material | FEP (Fluorinated Ethylene Propylene) |
| Gas Inlet/Outlet Fitting | 6 mm Swagelok®-compatible compression fitting, Hastelloy C-276 |
Overview
The CMC TMS-H-P-20-F is a high-stability, in-line electrolytic dew point sensor engineered for continuous, trace-level moisture monitoring in demanding industrial gas streams. Based on the well-established phosphorus pentoxide (P2O5) electrolytic principle, the sensor quantifies water vapor concentration by electrochemically splitting H2O molecules at a hygroscopic P2O5 film deposited on a platinum electrode pair. The resulting current—proportional to the mass flow of water—enables precise, real-time dew point determination down to –80 °C Td (typical range), with inherent immunity to common interferents such as CO2, hydrocarbons, and non-condensable gases. Designed for permanent installation in process lines, the TMS-H-P-20-F delivers long-term baseline stability and low drift, making it suitable for critical applications where moisture control directly impacts product integrity, catalyst life, or system corrosion resistance.
Key Features
- Electrolytic P2O5 sensing cell with dual platinum electrodes for high sensitivity and reproducible response across trace moisture levels
- Hastelloy C-276 measurement chamber and wetted gas path components ensure compatibility with aggressive, corrosive, or high-purity process gases (e.g., hydrogen, nitrogen, argon, SF6, natural gas)
- FEP-sealed borosilicate glass sensor body provides chemical inertness, thermal stability, and hermetic integrity under varying pressure conditions
- Optimized gas dynamics: fixed 20 NL/h sample flow rate ensures consistent residence time and full utilization of the electrolytic film surface area
- Wide operating pressure range (0.1–0.5 barg) supports integration into low-pressure purge lines, instrument air systems, and specialty gas distribution networks
- Robust mechanical design with 6 mm Swagelok®-compatible Hastelloy compression fittings enables leak-tight, vibration-resistant field installation
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The TMS-H-P-20-F is validated for use with non-reactive, non-particulate, and chemically stable gas matrices. It is not recommended for use with halogenated solvents, ammonia, or gases containing reactive siloxanes or heavy hydrocarbons that may polymerize on the P2O5 surface. The sensor meets material compatibility requirements per ASTM D7443 (Standard Practice for Determination of Water in Gaseous Fuels) and supports compliance with ISO 8573-1:2010 Class 2–4 compressed air quality specifications. Its construction adheres to EU RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and conforms to CE marking requirements for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC Directive 2014/30/EU) and low-voltage safety (LVD Directive 2014/35/EU).
Software & Data Management
The TMS-H-P-20-F operates as a 4–20 mA analog output device, compatible with standard PLCs, DCS systems, and SCADA platforms. Optional digital interface modules (e.g., Modbus RTU over RS-485) enable direct integration into centralized data acquisition architectures. When deployed within validated environments, the sensor supports audit-trail-capable data logging when paired with compliant controllers meeting FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements for electronic records and signatures. Calibration history, zero/span verification timestamps, and operational diagnostics can be archived in accordance with GLP and GMP documentation standards.
Applications
- Continuous moisture monitoring in high-purity nitrogen and argon blanketing systems for semiconductor fabrication and pharmaceutical inerting
- Dew point verification in SF6 insulated switchgear and gas-insulated substations (GIS)
- Trace moisture control in hydrogen fuel production, purification, and refueling infrastructure
- Quality assurance in compressed air systems serving paint booths, food packaging, and electronics assembly lines
- Process validation for cryogenic air separation units and bulk gas delivery pipelines
- Monitoring of dry air used in lithium-ion battery electrode drying ovens and glovebox environments
FAQ
What is the typical dew point measurement range for the TMS-H-P-20-F?
The sensor is optimized for continuous operation from –80 °C to +20 °C Td, with highest accuracy in the –60 °C to –20 °C range.
Does the sensor require periodic calibration?
Yes—annual zero and span calibration using certified NIST-traceable dry gas standards is recommended to maintain ±1% accuracy and meet ISO/IEC 17025 traceability requirements.
Can the TMS-H-P-20-F be installed in vertical or horizontal orientation?
It is designed for horizontal mounting only, with gas inlet upstream and outlet downstream aligned to ensure laminar flow across the electrolytic cell.
Is the sensor compatible with hazardous area classifications?
The base TMS-H-P-20-F is non-intrinsically safe; however, explosion-proof enclosures or associated safety barriers may be deployed in Zone 1/2 environments per ATEX 2014/34/EU and IECEx standards.
How does pressure fluctuation affect measurement accuracy?
The sensor incorporates pressure compensation via integrated absolute pressure transduction; measurements remain stable across its specified 0.1–0.5 barg operating band without external correction.
