The ‘right type’ of sensor: robust humidity sensor helps keep trains moving in cold weather

A manufacturer of safety equipment for railways relies on Michell’s Humidity and Temperature sensor, PF72-Series, to monitor and control its range of railway switch-point heating systems.
‘Points’ are the sections of track that move to switch the trains from one track to another. Because of their moving parts and exposed conditions, they are susceptible to freezing in cold weather if not heated.

The heating system measures the temperature and humidity around the point so the systems can automatically react to changes in temperature and prevent the point from freezing. As with any railway application, the measurement equipment must not only be robust it also has to be extremely reliable.

In addition to its primary safety function the sensor helps the customer to save energy as the heating system is only switched on when necessary and does not over-heat the area. The stainless steel PFMini72 relative humidity probes are based on the I7000 Hygrosmart relative humidity module. This interchangeable module has miniaturized electronics and does not require recalibration, instead the module is simply replaced, which can be done without specialised equipment. Because the I7000 is small, engineers can carry a supply with them and exchange them on the spot to ensure the heating system continues to operate. 		PF72-Series
If you would like more information please contact:

Sarah Lawrence
Michell Instruments
Lancaster Way Business Park
Ely, Cambridgeshire
CB6 3NW
UK
Tel - +44(0)1353 658 000
Fax - +44(0)1353 658 199
e-mail - sarah.lawrence@michell.com


Notes for Editors
About Michell Instruments

Michell Instruments Group is a worldwide leader in the field of moisture and humidity measurement solutions. With four decades of experience, Michell designs and manufactures a wide range of sensors, instruments and customized systems capable of measuring dew-point, humidity and oxygen in applications and industries as diverse as compressed air, power generation, petrochemical, oil and gas, food processing and pharmaceutical. Michell’s innovative products make processes cheaper, cleaner, more energy efficient and safe.

The Group has multiple manufacturing locations across Europe with their international headquarters located in Ely, UK and a North America sales and service headquarters located in Rowley (MA). It has its own facilities in 10 countries with an extensive network of factory trained application and service engineers, subsidiaries and distributors stretching across 56 countries.