Kanomax KA25 Hot-Wire Anemometer with Air Flow Calculation

Overview

The Kanomax KA25 is a precision-engineered hot-wire anemometer designed for reliable, real-time measurement of air velocity and ambient temperature in HVAC commissioning, indoor air quality (IAQ) assessment, cleanroom validation, and industrial ventilation audits. Based on constant-temperature anemometry (CTA), the KA25 employs a fine platinum-coated tungsten wire sensor maintained at a stable temperature differential above ambient. As airflow convectively cools the sensor, the instrument dynamically adjusts current to preserve thermal equilibrium—enabling highly responsive and linear velocity quantification across its full 0.01–20.0 m/s range. Unlike cup or vane anemometers, the KA25 delivers true low-velocity sensitivity down to 0.01 m/s with minimal flow disturbance, making it suitable for laminar flow characterization, duct traverse surveys, and localized air curtain verification.

Key Features

• Integrated dual-parameter sensing: Simultaneous real-time measurement of air velocity and temperature using a single probe
• On-device air volume calculation: User-input duct dimensions (rectangular or circular; 0.1–255.0 cm) enable direct m³/h output without external software
• Telescoping and bendable probe: Ø6 mm sensor tip mounted on a Ø14 mm handle with 294–1060 mm adjustable length and 360° flexible articulation for hard-to-reach locations
• Configurable time constant: Selectable response damping (1 s, 5 s, 10 s, or 20 s) to optimize stability vs. responsiveness per application requirement
• Intelligent statistical functions: On-screen display of min/max/average values during continuous measurement, supporting ISO 16813-compliant IAQ reporting
• Extended data retention: Manual hold function freezes current readings; auto-hold triggered by stable conditions (user-definable threshold)
• Rugged field-ready design: IP54-rated body (200 × 85 × 40 mm), 220 g weight, 3-level backlight LCD, and 15-hour battery life with standard AA alkalines

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The KA25 is calibrated for clean, non-corrosive, particle-free air — consistent with ISO 7726:2001 ergonomic standards for thermal environment instrumentation. It is not intended for use in saturated, oily, or high-dust environments where sensor fouling may compromise accuracy. The device meets IEC 61000-4-2 (ESD immunity) and IEC 61000-4-3 (radiated RF immunity) requirements for portable test equipment. While not certified for intrinsic safety, its low-power operation (≤1.5 W) and absence of spark-prone components permit use in general laboratory, office, and manufacturing floor settings compliant with OSHA 1910.94 and ASHRAE Standard 62.1 ventilation verification protocols.

Software & Data Management

The KA25 operates as a standalone field instrument with no mandatory PC interface. All measurements, statistics, and configuration settings are managed via its intuitive keypad and LCD. Data export is not supported natively; however, manual transcription of min/max/avg values aligns with GLP documentation practices for HVAC system commissioning reports. The unit supports audit-ready traceability through user-configurable auto-shutdown (3/5/10 min), timestamp-independent hold logging, and battery-level monitoring — features that facilitate compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 clause 7.7 (reporting of results) when integrated into documented QA workflows.

Applications

• HVAC duct traverse and total air volume verification per SMACNA and ASHRAE Guideline 12
• Cleanroom ISO Class 5–8 airflow uniformity mapping and face velocity checks at HEPA filters
• Lab fume hood face velocity validation (ANSI/AIHA Z9.5) and containment performance screening
• Industrial exhaust system balancing and capture velocity assessment near hoods or slots
• Educational aerodynamics labs requiring low-range, high-resolution velocity profiling
• Building envelope leakage testing support (when used with blower door systems for localized infiltration analysis)

FAQ

What calibration standards does the KA25 follow?
The KA25 is factory-calibrated against NIST-traceable wind tunnel references per ISO/IEC 17025-accredited procedures. Certificate of Conformance (CoC) is supplied with each unit; optional NIST-traceable calibration certificate available upon request.
Can the probe be replaced or serviced in the field?
Yes — the KA25 uses a modular probe design with standardized electrical interface. Replacement probes (KANOMAX P/N K-PROBE-KA25) are available separately and require no recalibration when installed.
Is the KA25 suitable for outdoor use in rain or high humidity?
The probe is rated IP54 (dust-protected and splash-resistant), but prolonged exposure to precipitation or condensation is not recommended. The main body must remain within 5–40 °C operating range; extended cold-weather use requires thermal stabilization prior to measurement.
How does the time constant setting affect measurement uncertainty?
Shorter time constants (e.g., 1 s) increase sensitivity to turbulence-induced fluctuations, potentially elevating apparent uncertainty in unsteady flows. For ISO-standardized duct traverses, a 5–10 s setting is typically recommended to ensure representative averaging per ANSI/ASHRAE 111.
Does the KA25 comply with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 for electronic records?
No — the KA25 lacks electronic signature capability, audit trail generation, or secure user authentication. It is intended for use in environments where paper-based or manually transcribed records meet regulatory requirements (e.g., non-GMP HVAC pre-qualification).