In a defence aerospace research facility, highly accurate humidity monitoring is crucial at all times while testing is performed, throughout the research and development process of nuclear components. The DataNet wireless data logging system provides 24 hour online monitoring with the accuracy and reliability required of critical Defence facilities.
Organization
Defence Aerospace Research Facility (details withheld for security reasons)
Application
Research and Development of Nuclear Components for Defence
Background
Major aerospace and defense contractors plan their research and development to meet the needs of national defense and global security. Technological advancements, sophistication and efficiency in systems are among the most urgent global requirements today. To prevent a main core accident in nuclear reactors, instrumentation with a proven record of quality and serviceability must provide fast, and reliable data.
About the Customer
Environmental chambers are used to test any combination of environmental operational conditions during the development of nuclear components. This research and development facility must ensure that, during testing, the environment within the chamber is accurately monitored and documented at all times.
Key Customer Challenges
- The need to constantly measure humidity with accuracy of <1% at values less than 10% RH within the chamber during the testing process. (Note that most commercial humidity sensors are only accurate to 3%, and perform worse at very low humidities.)
- The need for a robust wireless transmission system to prevent breaks in transmission. Immediate warnings should be sent in the event of transmission delays to ensure regular report delivery.
- The need for wireless links to cover indoor work areas with transmission obstructions and long ranges, necessitating the use of radio repeaters.
DataNet Implementation
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A multi-point, online, wireless data logging system consisting of 20 units has been implemented across 4 sites monitoring temperature and humidity, with 5 x DNL910 temperature loggers, 4 x Receivers and 11x Repeaters.
- The DataNet logger’s high accuracy input of 4-20 mA was connected to an external RH transmitter with 1% accuracy. This data was transmitted wirelessly over the DataNet meshed wireless network to the online DataSuite monitoring software.
- Each Receiver manages a single wireless network and is powered by the DataSuite data analysis software. Each network then uses repeaters to expand the transmission range within that network.
Measurable Results
- Accurate and reliable humidity measurements – the DNL910’s 16-bit analog inputs give high accuracy readings, and as a self contained data logger with internal data storage and built in rechargeable backup battery, the loggers ensure that measurements are not missed, regardless of power or wireless network interruptions.
- Centralized data collection– powered by DataSuite’s central management inferface, data is monitored online with detailed data analysis featuring online system reports.
- Automated warnings in the event of a problem – with four alarm levels, the system efficiently manages alerting of all conditions, from low level alerts up to critical errors. SMS and email alerts, together with emergency night procedures provide a complete system for handling anomalies in the environmental conditions.
- Recurring report delivery – data is transferred into reports in both Excel and PDF formats and delivered at regular intervals to a selected distribution list.
- A robust, flexible system – leveraging the SRR (short range repeater) mode on each data logger, which turns the system into a meshed network, overcoming RF transmission hurdles in the premises.
(Article courtesy of Fourtec)
