CMC TMS-H-P-100 Portable Electrolytic Dew Point Sensor
| Brand | CMC |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | TMS-H-P-100 |
| Type | Portable Dew Point Meter |
| Measurement Principle | Electrolytic (P2O5 Sensor) |
| Operating Temperature | +5 °C to +50 °C |
| Accuracy | ±1% of reading |
| Sample Flow Rate | 100 NL/h |
| Sample Gas Temperature Range | 5–50 °C |
| Operating Pressure Range | 0.1–0.5 barg |
| Electrode Material | Platinum |
| Electrode Substrate | Hastelloy |
| Sensor Cell Housing | Borosilicate Glass |
| Sealing Material | FEP |
| Gas Inlet/Outlet Fitting | 6 mm Swagelok®-compatible compression fitting, Hastelloy |
Overview
The CMC TMS-H-P-100 is a portable, high-stability electrolytic dew point sensor engineered for precise trace moisture measurement in industrial process gases and calibration gas streams. Based on the well-established phosphorus pentoxide (P2O5) electrolytic principle, the instrument quantifies water vapor concentration by electrochemically dissociating H2O molecules at a hygroscopic P2O5 film deposited on a platinum electrode surface, followed by amperometric recombination current measurement. This method delivers exceptional sensitivity down to sub-ppb(v) levels and long-term baseline stability—critical for applications demanding rigorous moisture control, such as semiconductor purge gas monitoring, SF6 insulation gas verification, and high-purity nitrogen or hydrogen supply lines. The sensor’s compact, self-contained design enables rapid field deployment without external power supplies or carrier gas requirements, making it suitable for both spot-check validation and periodic audit compliance.
Key Features
- Electrolytic P2O5 sensing cell with platinum electrodes sputtered onto a Hastelloy substrate—ensuring chemical inertness and resistance to aggressive process environments.
- Borosilicate glass measurement cell housing with FEP (fluorinated ethylene propylene) sealing elements—providing thermal stability, low outgassing, and compatibility with corrosive or ultra-dry gas matrices.
- Integrated flow-controlled sampling system rated for 100 NL/h nominal flow, optimized for minimal pressure drop and laminar flow conditions across the sensor surface.
- Wide operating pressure range (0.1–0.5 barg) and ambient temperature tolerance (+5 °C to +50 °C), enabling use in non-conditioned industrial settings including compressor rooms and utility corridors.
- Hastelloy 6mm compression fittings (Swagelok®-compatible) for secure, leak-tight connection to stainless steel or nickel alloy tubing—eliminating contamination risks from elastomeric seals.
- Factory-calibrated traceable to NIST-traceable humidity standards; calibration certificate supplied with each unit per ISO/IEC 17025 requirements.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The TMS-H-P-100 is validated for use with non-condensing, non-reactive process gases including nitrogen, argon, helium, hydrogen, oxygen, air, SF6, and synthetic natural gas. It is not recommended for use with gases containing condensable hydrocarbons, chlorine, ammonia, or high concentrations of CO2, which may interfere with P2O5 film integrity. The sensor meets IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity) and IEC 61000-6-4 (emissions) for industrial electromagnetic compatibility. Its construction complies with PED 2014/68/EU for pressure equipment up to 0.5 barg and carries CE marking. For regulated industries, the device supports audit-ready operation under GLP and GMP frameworks when paired with documented calibration and usage logs.
Software & Data Management
The sensor outputs a linear 4–20 mA analog signal proportional to dew point temperature (°Cdp) or ppmv water concentration, compatible with standard PLCs, DCS systems, and data loggers. Optional USB-C interface and CMC-provided PC software enable real-time graphing, data export (CSV), and configuration of zero/span calibration points. All calibration events—including date, operator ID, reference standard ID, and deviation values—are timestamped and stored internally with write-protected memory, satisfying FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements for electronic records when used with appropriate user access controls.
Applications
- Verification of dew point performance in nitrogen generators and membrane dryers.
- In-line moisture monitoring of SF6 gas in high-voltage switchgear maintenance.
- Quality assurance testing of compressed air systems per ISO 8573-1 Class 1–2 specifications.
- Validation of glovebox and dry room purge gas integrity in lithium-ion battery manufacturing.
- Calibration transfer between laboratory-grade chilled mirror hygrometers and field instruments.
- Supporting ASTM D7919 (Standard Practice for Determination of Trace Moisture in Gases Using Electrolytic Sensors) and ISO 8573-8 Annex B protocols.
FAQ
What is the lower detection limit of the TMS-H-P-100?
The sensor achieves a typical lower detection limit of –70 °Cdp (≈ 0.2 ppmv) under optimal flow and pressure conditions.
Can the sensor be used in vacuum applications?
No—the specified operating pressure range is 0.1–0.5 barg (absolute); operation below 0.1 barg is not supported due to insufficient sample density for stable electrolytic response.
How often does the sensor require recalibration?
CMC recommends annual recalibration; however, frequency should be determined by risk assessment, usage intensity, and regulatory requirements—particularly in pharmaceutical or semiconductor environments.
Is the P2O5 film replaceable in the field?
The electrolytic cell is a sealed, factory-assembled unit and is not user-serviceable; replacement requires return to an authorized CMC service center.
Does the device support intrinsic safety certification for hazardous areas?
The base TMS-H-P-100 is not intrinsically safe certified; ATEX or IECEx variants are available upon request with modified electronics and enclosure design.
