By Admin 
Introduction
Industrial moisture measurement has never been more critical or more challenging. From pharmaceutical manufacturing to petrochemical processing, accurate dew point readings can mean the difference between product quality and costly failures. The shaw t a smc SDHmini-Ex-G-6-UK Mini Dew Point Hygrometer emerges as a game-changing solution, combining portability with precision in hazardous environments where safety cannot be compromised.
This intrinsically safe instrument represents a significant advancement in moisture measurement technology. Certified to ATEX, IECEx, and UL standards, it enables professionals to perform reliable dew point measurements in explosive atmospheres while maintaining the speed and accuracy demanded by modern industrial processes. Whether you’re monitoring compressed air systems, validating pharmaceutical environments, or ensuring gas quality in petrochemical applications, this device delivers consistent results where traditional instruments fall short.
Key Features That Set the SDHmini-Ex-G-6-UK Apart
Intrinsic Safety Certification
The Shaw SDHmini-Ex-G-6-UK holds the highest safety certifications for hazardous area use. Its ATEX, IECEx, and UL approvals allow operation in Zone 1 and Zone 2 explosive atmospheres, making it suitable for oil refineries, chemical plants, and gas processing facilities where safety is paramount.
Revolutionary AutoCal Technology
The automatic calibration system represents Shaw’s most innovative feature. Unlike traditional hygrometers requiring expensive calibration gases or lengthy laboratory procedures, the SDHmini-Ex can be field-calibrated using ambient air. This proprietary technology reduces downtime and eliminates calibration costs while ensuring measurement accuracy remains within ±2°C (±3.6°F).
Advanced Sensor Technology
The ultra-high capacitance aluminum oxide sensor provides exceptional sensitivity across multiple measurement ranges. The G (Grey) model covers -80°C to 0°C dewpoint (-112°F to +32°F), equivalent to 0-6,000 ppm(v), making it ideal for compressed air and industrial gas applications.
User-Friendly Design
The full-color LCD display presents data in multiple formats with secondary display options. Ten language selections including English, German, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Italian, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean ensure global usability. The intuitive menu structure allows operators to navigate functions quickly, even while wearing protective equipment.
Extended Battery Life
The rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides over 150 hours of continuous operation, eliminating concerns about power availability during extended measurement campaigns. USB charging capability ensures convenient power restoration using standard cables.
Comprehensive Data Management
Advanced data logging capabilities store up to 300,000 readings with date and time stamps. The integrated USB and Bluetooth interfaces enable seamless data transfer to PCs and mobile printers, while the Shaw SDHmini User Tool Software provides graphical analysis and real-time monitoring capabilities.
How to Implement the Shaw SDHmini-Ex-G-6-UK
Initial Setup and Configuration
Begin by selecting the appropriate measurement range for your application. The G model’s -80°C to 0°C dewpoint range suits most industrial compressed air and gas drying applications. Connect the sample inlet using the provided 6mm Swagelok compression fitting, ensuring all connections meet safety requirements for your specific hazardous area classification.
Calibration Procedures
Perform the AutoCal function before first use and periodically thereafter. Lift the desiccant chamber to expose the sensor to ambient air (typically sufficient for calibration) and follow the menu-driven instructions. This process takes minutes rather than hours required by traditional calibration methods.
Measurement Protocols
Position the instrument at the sampling point and allow adequate sample flow (2-5 liters per minute optimal). The desiccant dry-down assembly ensures rapid response times: wet-to-dry measurements from -10°C to -60°C dewpoint complete in less than 120 seconds, while dry-to-wet measurements from -100°C to -20°C dewpoint respond in under 20 seconds.
Data Collection and Analysis
Configure sampling rates from every 5 seconds to once daily based on process requirements. Use the 20 programmable location IDs to organize data collection across multiple monitoring points. The Shaw SDHmini User Tool Software enables real-time monitoring, trend analysis, and report generation for quality assurance documentation.
Case Studies and Applications
Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
shaw t a smc A major pharmaceutical company implemented Shaw SDHmini-Ex-G-6-UK units across their sterile manufacturing facility. The instruments monitor compressed air dewpoints in classified areas where traditional hygrometers posed explosion risks. AutoCal technology reduced validation costs by 60% while maintaining regulatory compliance. Continuous monitoring capabilities detected a gradual air dryer deterioration three weeks before complete failure, preventing production losses exceeding $2 million.
Petrochemical Processing
An offshore oil platform replaced multiple fixed monitoring systems with portable Shaw units for natural gas quality verification. The intrinsic safety certification eliminated hot work permits previously required for instrument maintenance. Bluetooth connectivity enabled data transmission to the control room without personnel exposure to hazardous areas. Response time improvements from 15 minutes to under 2 minutes enhanced process control accuracy and reduced gas quality variations by 40%.
Power Generation
A combined-cycle power plant uses Shaw hygrometers for hydrogen cooling system monitoring. The instruments’ 150-hour battery life supports extended maintenance outages without external power requirements. Data logging capabilities document hydrogen purity compliance for warranty protection on expensive generator equipment. The rugged housing withstands the harsh industrial environment while maintaining calibration accuracy throughout 24-month service intervals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What measurement ranges are available for the SDHmini-Ex series?
Shaw offers five sensor ranges designated by color codes: Purple (-100°C to 0°C), Silver (-100°C to -20°C), Grey (-80°C to 0°C), Red (-80°C to -20°C), and Blue (-80°C to +20°C). The G-6-UK model features the Grey sensor, ideal for compressed air and industrial gas applications.
How does the AutoCal system work?
AutoCal utilizes Shaw’s proprietary aluminum oxide sensor technology that saturates at its design maximum moisture level. When exposed to humidity above the operating range, the sensor reaches equilibrium and stops responding to further moisture increases. This creates a precise calibration reference point achievable with ambient air rather than expensive calibration gases.
What safety certifications does the instrument hold?
The SDHmini-Ex maintains ATEX certification (II 1 G Ex ia IIC T4 Ga), IECEx certification (Ex ia IIC T4 Ga), and UL certification (Class I Div 1 Groups A, B, C, and D T4). These approvals permit operation in Zone 1 and Zone 2 hazardous areas where explosive atmospheres may be present.
Can the instrument operate in extreme temperatures?
Operating temperature range spans -20°C to +50°C (-4°F to +122°F), while storage temperature extends from -30°C to +70°C (-22°F to +158°F). The IP66/NEMA 4X weatherproof rating ensures reliable operation in harsh industrial environments.
What software capabilities are included?
The Shaw SDHmini User Tool Software provides comprehensive data management including graphical display formats, real-time PC monitoring, programmable sampling rates, and location-based data organization. The software supports both USB and Bluetooth connectivity for flexible data transfer options.
Why Choose ANS for Your Shaw Hygrometer Needs
ANS stands at the forefront of automatic electronics solutions, bringing decades of expertise to moisture measurement applications. Our commitment to “Act promptly Respond quickly Lead automatically Lead innovation” ensures customers receive not just superior products, but comprehensive support throughout the implementation process.
Our technical specialists understand the unique challenges of hazardous area instrumentation. We provide application-specific guidance, helping select optimal sensor ranges and connection options for each installation. Our global freight forwarding capabilities ensure timely delivery while minimizing costs through consolidated weekly shipments.
Professional installation support and manufacturer-backed service guarantee your Shaw hygrometer investment delivers maximum value. ANS maintains extensive spare parts inventory and certified repair capabilities, minimizing downtime when service is required. Our customer care team provides enthusiastic support backed by deep technical knowledge and direct manufacturer relationships.
The Shaw SDHmini-Ex-G-6-UK represents more than just an instrument it’s a comprehensive solution for critical moisture measurement challenges. From pharmaceutical cleanrooms to offshore platforms, this hygrometer delivers the accuracy, safety, and reliability demanded by modern industrial processes. Contact ANS today to discover how the Shaw SDHmini-Ex-G-6-UK can enhance your moisture monitoring capabilities while ensuring safety compliance in hazardous environments.