HVAC real time PM monitoring
Enhancing Indoor Air Quality: The Importance of HVAC Particulate Monitoring
Maintaining optimal indoor air quality (IAQ) is essential for ensuring the health, comfort, and productivity of building occupants. A critical aspect of IAQ management involves monitoring and controlling particulate matter (PM) levels within Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems. Particulate matter consists of tiny particles, such as dust, pollen, and smoke, that can adversely affect respiratory health and overall well-being. Integrating PM sensors into HVAC systems enables real-time detection of particle concentrations, facilitating dynamic control of ventilation rates and enhancing filtration efficiency. This proactive approach not only improves indoor air quality but also optimizes energy consumption and ensures compliance with health guidelines.
Challenges with HVAC PM Monitoring
Monitoring particulate matter (PM) within HVAC systems is crucial for maintaining indoor air quality (IAQ), but two primary challenges often arise:
1. Accuracy of PM Sensors: Achieving precise measurements of particulate matter is essential for effective IAQ management. However, the accuracy of PM sensors can be compromised by factors such as humidity, varying particle sizes, and sensor placement within HVAC ducts. For instance, low-cost particle sensors (LCSs) may exhibit reduced accuracy due to environmental conditions and sensor positioning, leading to unreliable data and potential mismanagement of air quality.
2. Pressure Drop : Integrating PM sensors into HVAC ducts can present challenges related to pressure conditions. Most sensors rely on small internal fans to draw air into their measurement chambers. However, these fans often struggle to overcome the higher pressure environments typical within HVAC ducts, leading to inadequate airflow through the sensor and compromised measurement accuracy.
NextPM Advanced: accurate HVAC PM monitoring
Accuracy
Dual-Angle Detection: NextPM utilizes a patented dual-angle detection system that measures light scattering at both 45° and 90°. This approach enhances particle size discrimination, leading to more accurate PM measurements across PM1, PM2.5, and PM10 categories.
Humidity Regulation: To address the impact of humidity on sensor accuracy, NextPM incorporates internal heating resistors that maintain humidity levels below critical thresholds. This feature prevents hygroscopic growth of particles, ensuring reliable measurements even in high-humidity environments.
NextPM Advanced unique design to handle HVAC environment.
In the NextPM Advanced model, the traditional internal fan is replaced with an external pump designed to handle the higher pressure conditions typical within HVAC ducts. This enhancement ensures consistent airflow through the sensor, maintaining measurement accuracy and reliability even in environments with significant pressure variations.
External pump adapter
2 angle detection
Internal heater
FAQ
NextPM measures particulate matter in three standard fractions—PM1, PM2.5, and PM10—as well as particle counts across five granulometric channels (0.3-0.5 µm, 0.5-1 µm, 1-2.5 µm, 2.5-5 µm, and 5-10 µm).
NextPM sensors have shown excellent accuracy, with correlation coefficients exceeding 0.95 when compared to certified reference instruments in independent field studies.
No. The NextPM sensor includes patented humidity management and anti-clogging technology, significantly reducing maintenance needs. Its design allows up to 10 years of continuous use with minimal maintenance.
NextPM features a patented humidity regulation system using internal heating resistors that maintain humidity levels inside the sensor below 60%. This prevents particle swelling and ensures accurate measurements even in humid environments.
NextPM supports UART, Modbus, offering flexibility and ease of integration with various systems.
Yes, NextPM has been independently tested and validated by recognized institutions such as the South Coast AQMD’s AQ-SPEC program and French institutions like LCE and Atmosud, confirming its high correlation (>0.95) with reference-grade instruments.
Our expert team provides comprehensive support, including guidance for rapid integration, technical assistance during field deployment, and recommendations to streamline your monitoring project, helping you save time and resources.
NextPM complies with essential international standards, including CE, RoHS, and REACH compliance, ensuring it meets regulatory and environmental safety requirements.
