Dew point sensor ensures compressed air quality and reduces energy costs

The result is cleaner, drier air, fewer moisture-related faults and lower energy costs. Its compact, robust design makes it easy to add to existing systems, even in harsh industrial environments.

Compressed air is one of the most widely used energy sources in industry, and its quality directly affects process reliability. The pressure dew point is the temperature at which water vapour in compressed air condenses at constant pressure. Monitoring this value is key to ensuring air quality and operational safety.

When moisture levels rise too high, the knock-on effect can build up quickly. Condensation causes corrosion and potential leaks, shortens system service life and impairs compressed air-powered devices. Dry compressed air is essential for trouble-free processes and compliance with national and international standards. This is especially true in sensitive areas such as the food and pharmaceutical industries, and in precision pneumatic control systems, where even small amounts of moisture can affect product quality and process stability.

The LDH313 supports efficient compressed air treatment. The lower the pressure dew point, the drier the compressed air, and the sensor displays this value continuously and precisely.

This continuous monitoring is the basis for demand-based dryer control. Many dryers run at a fixed output and dry the air far more than the application requires. This "over-drying" wastes energy and adds avoidable costs. With reliable dew point data, operators can match dryer performance to real demand, saving energy without compromising air quality. This supports both cost targets and sustainability goals.

The LDH313 is a monitoring device, not part of the air supply itself. It checks that dryers and other system components are working correctly and detects deviations immediately, so users can take corrective action before minor issues become major problems. Its primary purpose is quality monitoring, but it also helps prevent unplanned downtime.

The LDH313 combines precise measurement with a design built for demanding industrial conditions. It measures dew point from -20 to 20 degC Td with an accuracy of +/-2 degC Td, and its display covers -20 to 60 degC Td. The sensor handles medium temperatures from -20 to 60 degC and pressures of up to 50 bar. It provides IO-Link and 1x 420 mA output signals, and connects to the process via a G1/2 thread. The stainless steel housing has an IP67 protection rating, so the device remains reliable in harsh environments. A fast coupling adapter for pneumatic lines (order no. E33710) is also available for quick connection to the compressed air system.

The LDH313 is designed for fast, straightforward commissioning. Its compact form makes it easy to integrate into existing compressed air lines, often without major changes to the installation.

Through its IO-Link interface, the sensor connects easily to the system control, so dew point data can flow directly into automation and monitoring systems. Operators gain the transparency they need to optimise compressed air treatment today and to build smarter, more energy-efficient systems in the future.

The LDH313 complements ifm's wider range of solutions for compressed air applications. These include the PQ range of pressure sensors for monitoring system pressure in pneumatic and compressed air systems, the SD compressed air meter for measuring flow, consumption, pressure and temperature, and a handheld device for locating even the smallest compressed air leaks. Together, these products help customers improve air quality, reduce waste and use energy more efficiently.