Shaw SADP-D High-Precision Portable Dew Point Meter
| Origin | UK |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | SADP-D |
| Product Type | Portable Dew Point Meter |
| Measurement Principle | Aluminum Oxide Capacitive Sensor |
| Operating Temperature | -20 °C to +50 °C |
| Accuracy | ±2 °C DP (traceable to NPL & NIST) |
| Repeatability | ±0.2 °C DP |
Overview
The Shaw SADP-D High-Precision Portable Dew Point Meter is an engineered solution for reliable, field-deployable dew point measurement in compressed air, natural gas, industrial gases, and specialty gas systems. Based on a stable aluminum oxide capacitive sensing principle, the instrument delivers high reproducibility and long-term stability across extreme low-dew-point conditions—from –110 °C to +20 °C DP—making it suitable for critical applications where moisture control directly impacts process integrity, equipment longevity, and product quality. Unlike chilled-mirror or laser-based alternatives, the SADP-D employs a robust solid-state sensor architecture with integrated temperature compensation across its full operational range, eliminating drift caused by ambient thermal gradients. Its design complies with fundamental requirements of ISO 8573-1 (compressed air purity classes), ASTM D6673 (moisture in natural gas), and supports traceability to UK’s National Physical Laboratory (NPL) and US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards.
Key Features
- True handheld form factor: compact dimensions (190 × 95 × 45 mm), lightweight (<650 g), and IP65-rated rugged enclosure for field durability
- Multi-range selectable dew point detection: five calibrated ranges (SR, PL, RD, GY, BL) optimized for specific application profiles—from ultra-dry SF₆ insulation gas to mid-range pipeline natural gas
- Seven configurable display units: °C, °F, ppmv, ppmw, ppbv, g/m³, and lbs/MMSCF—enabling direct alignment with industry reporting conventions
- Integrated molecular sieve pre-dryer system: enables rapid stabilization and eliminates need for external dryers during spot-check measurements
- Rechargeable lithium-ion battery: 250-hour continuous operation per charge; 6-hour full recharge cycle; battery status indicator with low-power warning
- Real-time pressure dew point calculation: accepts user-input gauge pressure (kPag, barg, psig) and automatically compensates for compression effects using thermodynamic water vapor saturation models
- Five-button intuitive interface with backlit 126 × 64 pixel LCD—designed for gloved operation and low-light environments
- Two-point field calibration capability: accessible via on-screen menu without proprietary software or service tools
- Multi-level password protection: configurable access tiers for operator, technician, and administrator functions
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The SADP-D is validated for use with non-corrosive, non-condensing gas streams including compressed air (oil-free and lubricated), nitrogen, argon, helium, CO₂, natural gas (up to 30 kPag), and SF₆. It is not recommended for use with halogenated hydrocarbons, ammonia, or highly reactive gases that may degrade the aluminum oxide dielectric layer. Sample flow rate is optimized at 2–5 L/min (max 10 L/min); inlet/outlet ports feature dual 6 mm stainless steel push-to-connect and Swagelok-style compression fittings compatible with PTFE tubing. The instrument operates within –10 °C to +60 °C ambient temperature and up to 95% RH non-condensing humidity. Storage range extends from –40 °C to +80 °C. Sensor lifetime is rated at 5–10 years depending on exposure profile—verified through accelerated aging tests per IEC 60068-2 series environmental stress protocols.
Software & Data Management
Optional RS485 serial or USB interface enables integration into SCADA, PLC, or lab data acquisition systems. The SADP-D supports Modbus RTU protocol for seamless readout of dew point, temperature, pressure, and sensor health status. When connected to a host PC, real-time streaming and automatic timestamped logging (CSV format) are supported via Shaw’s free Windows-based configuration utility. All stored readings include metadata: date/time stamp, user ID (if authenticated), pressure input, and calibration history. Audit trail functionality meets baseline GLP/GMP documentation expectations; however, full 21 CFR Part 11 compliance requires third-party electronic signature and secure archive implementation on the host system—not embedded in the meter itself.
Applications
- Compressed air system validation per ISO 8573-1 Class 2–4 for pharmaceutical manufacturing and electronics cleanrooms
- Moisture monitoring in natural gas transmission pipelines prior to custody transfer
- In-service verification of desiccant dryer performance in petrochemical refineries
- Quality assurance testing of SF₆-filled high-voltage switchgear and GIS enclosures
- Field commissioning of membrane and refrigerated air dryers
- Preventive maintenance checks for pneumatic control systems in offshore platforms
FAQ
What calibration standards does the SADP-D reference?
The sensor is factory-calibrated against NPL-traceable chilled-mirror reference standards; certificate of calibration includes uncertainty budget per ISO/IEC 17025.
Can the SADP-D measure under positive pressure?
Yes—it accommodates gauge pressures up to 30 kPag (0.3 barg) and computes pressure-corrected dew point internally using the Magnus–Tetens formulation.
Is sensor replacement user-serviceable?
Yes—field-replaceable sensor modules and molecular sieve cartridges are available as spares; no soldering or firmware reprogramming required.
What is the typical response time for extreme transitions?
From dry (–110 °C DP) to wet (–20 °C DP): <20 seconds; from wet to dry (–10 °C to –60 °C DP): <120 seconds—measured per ISO 8573-7 Annex B test protocol.
Does the instrument support analog output for PLC integration?
Yes—optional 4–20 mA isolated current loop output is configurable for dew point, temperature, or pressure dew point signals with user-defined scaling.
