HTM 02, the replacement document for Health Technical Memorandum 2202, includes the recommendation that all medical gas supplies should be continuously monitored for dewpoint or moisture content
Within the UK the correct use of medical gases is regulated by Health Technical Memorandum 2022.
This document is currently being updated, and is due to be published by National Health Service Executive (NHSE) in summer 2006, and to be known as HTM 02.
Part of the content includes the recommendation that:- all medical gas supplies should be continuously monitored for dewpoint or moisture content.
This is a tightening of the regulations that have only recommended periodic measurement by portable instruments in the past.
Michell Instruments have previously been very active in supplying portable equipment such as the Cermax portable dewpointmeter, to supplement and in some cases replace, the use of basic gas detection tubes.
More than 30 portable instruments have been supplied within the UK, many with sampling systems to allow quick and easy connection to medical gas supplies within hospitals, pharmacies and their respective estates departments.
Michell Instruments have been quick off the mark regarding continuous measurement, and have already received orders from two customers for this application, prior to the publication of the new memorandum.
Where continuous measurement of dewpoint is required Michell Instruments have a perfect solution, the Easidew On-Line hygrometer.
The Easidew On-Line utilises the Michell Instruments ceramic sensor to provide stable and accurate measurement of dewpoint in the range of -100 to +20C.
The Easidew On-Line monitor provides a large red LED display of the measured dewpoint value.
A 4-20mA analogue output is available for interfacing to data-loggers or distributed control system.
Two alarm relays can be set by the user to give an indication that the gas is approaching, or is outside, the required specification.
To provide a complete solution Michell Instruments can, if required, provide the Easidew On-Line already housed within wall-mounting enclosure, including a simple and cost effect sampling system.
The sampling system includes a filter to protect the sensor and a valve and flow meter, so that the appropriate sample flow rate can be set.
Visual and audible alarms are also available, as is a local pressure indication.
High quality sample pipe work and fittings are used throughout to ensure the integrity of the medical gas can be maintained.
