Research Tools

Light Meter:

 
The light meter determines the illuminance of an office or factory area.  The illuminance is a measure of the total luminous flux incident on a surface.  The light meter outputs values of lux for an area, which can then be compared with standards for different lighting situations.  This tool aids in the assessment of the lighting needs and possible alternatives for a facility.

Anemometer:

The anemometer measures the velocity and temperature of air flow.  It can analyze the severity of building leaks as well as the air circulation flow rates through a facility.  The data obtained by this device is used to calculate heat transfer quantities as well as potential heating and cooling energy savings.  This allows for accurate predictions of heat loss due to building leaks as well as an indication of plant ventilation rates.

Digital Psychrometer:

The temperature and relative humidity of facility air can be evaluated with the digital psychrometer.  This information can in turn be used to calculate the amount of enthalpy present in the dry air and the amount of energy needed to raise the a certain temperature of the air to another.  The data presented can aid in the assessment of the current heating and cooling requirements specifically pertaining to the plant air quality.

Infrared Temperature Sensor:

An infrared temperature sensor assigns a surface temperature remotely without contact.  The audit team utilizes this tool to determine the feasibility of insulating plant piping and to the find temperature differences which drive heat transfer from radiating surfaces.

Ultrasonic Leakage Detector:

The ultrasonic leakage detector is used to establish if there are leaks present in steam or compressed air lines.  The detector can also indicate if a bearing is wearing out on a piece of machinery.  Typically an audit team member will employ this tool to listen for leaks to be further quantified.

Combustion Analyzer:

The combustion analyzer obtains the characteristics of fuel combustion.  From the readout of this device it is possible to determine the chemical content of the exhaust gasses (CO and NOx levels) as well as flue gas temperature.  These values will reveal the nature of the burner set up and possibilities for optimization.  Understanding the chemical content of the exhaust, the flue gas and the temperature aid in the research of heat exchange systems and economizers.