Air flow sensors
Air flow sensors measure flow velocity and temperature of gaseous media using the calorimetric principle.
They allow for simple, direction-independent installation and are used in ventilation, cooling, or process air applications. Maintenance-free, durable, and ideal for clean, particle-free air. Read more here
Air flow sensors
All items of the category Air flow sensors:
Air flow sensors for industry & automation
Rely on modern air flow sensors that have been specially developed for industrial applications such as food, pharmaceutical and cleanroom engineering. Our sensors impress with durability, maintenance-free operation and high measurement accuracy – ideal for all areas where clean, controlled air flows are essential.
Thanks to their robust design and easy integration, our air flow sensors are suitable for a wide range of applications: from ventilation and air-conditioning systems to process air in production and sensitive applications in cleanrooms. Whether you want to monitor air quality, increase energy efficiency or improve the safety of your processes – our sensors provide a reliable solution.
Your benefits at a glance:
- Low-maintenance & durable
- High measurement accuracy
- Flexible mounting & integration
- Available for immediate delivery
- Personal advice & support
Benefit from personal technical advice from our experts: We support you with selection, integration and commissioning – tailored to your requirements.
Measuring principle: calorimetric air flow measurement
How the calorimetric principle works (briefly explained)
Our air flow sensors work according to the same thermal (calorimetric) measuring principle as our calorimetric flow sensors: one sensor element is heated in a targeted manner, a second serves as a reference. As air flows past the sensor, heat is drawn away from the heated element. From the resulting temperature or signal difference, the sensor reliably determines the flow/flow velocity (and depending on the version also the volumetric flow). Learn more about how calorimetric sensors work.
Areas of application for air flow sensors
Air flow sensors are highly specialised measuring instruments that are indispensable in numerous industries and applications. Their precise detection of air movements not only enables the optimisation of technical processes, but also makes a significant contribution to quality assurance and energy efficiency.
Ventilation and air-conditioning systems (HVAC):
In heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems (HVAC), air flow sensors are essential for monitoring and controlling air flows. They enable:
- Demand-based control: Sensors detect the current air volume and automatically adjust the ventilation output to demand, for example in office buildings, hotels or hospitals.
- Energy efficiency: Accurate control can minimise energy losses and reduce operating costs.
- Air quality: Sensors help to monitor CO₂ levels, particulate matter and other pollutants in the room, ensuring a healthy indoor climate.
- Typical applications: Central ventilation systems, single-room controls, smart building solutions, monitoring filter changes.
Process air in production:
In industry, air flow sensors are crucial for stable production conditions:
- Quality control: In the chemical industry, they prevent unwanted contamination through controlled air flows in reaction rooms and laboratories.
- Food production: Sensors ensure that production areas are constantly ventilated and cooled to meet hygiene requirements and product safety.
- Automation: In the automotive industry, spray booths, welding systems and assembly areas are monitored with air flow sensors to ensure consistent production conditions.
- Typical applications: Monitoring process exhaust air, controlling extraction and ventilation systems, integration into Industry 4.0 environments.
Climate and cleanroom engineering:
Air flow sensors are indispensable for maintaining the highest quality standards in sensitive areas:
- Cleanrooms: In semiconductor manufacturing, the pharmaceutical industry and medical technology, sensors ensure compliance with strict air cleanliness classes.
- Climate control: In laboratories and test rooms, they enable precise control of temperature and humidity to ensure reproducible results.
- Safety aspects: Sensors detect deviations at an early stage and prevent potential risks, for example due to contamination or overheating.
- Typical applications: Monitoring laminar-flow systems, controlling airlocks and monitoring filter systems.
With their ability to take precise measurements, air flow sensors help to optimise processes and minimise energy consumption – a clear advantage for companies that focus on efficiency and sustainability.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about air flow sensors
An air flow sensor measures the velocity and volumetric flow rate of air without contact. It usually works according to the calorimetric principle and is designed for precise, maintenance-free measurements in industrial applications.
They are wear-free, extremely sensitive and detect even the smallest changes in flow. This makes them particularly durable and low-maintenance.
Installing an air flow sensor generally requires the sensor to be fitted in a straight section of the air duct to avoid flow disturbances. With the AS101-102 this is particularly straightforward, as it can be quickly and securely mounted with the appropriate mounting accessories, and the pin-shaped (probe) housing enables easy insertion and precise alignment in the air duct. Please follow the operating instructions carefully and ensure that the sensor is correctly aligned (flow direction/installation orientation according to the instructions). Avoid mounting positions directly near fans, dampers, bends or other flow sources, as these can cause turbulence.
Maintenance of air flow sensors depends on the environment in which they are used. It is recommended to check the sensors regularly and clean them if necessary to ensure optimum performance. Inspections every six to twelve months are usually sufficient unless operating conditions are extreme.
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