Setra Blog

Until recently, there was no standard industry network protocol for building automation, and users had to choose between many different systems from different manufacturers. Proprietary communications were a result of no off-the shelf communication solution.

Today, we have reached a place where there are three inter-operable standard network protocols to choose from: BACnet, LonWorks and Modbus. All three are widely used, and according to a Building Operating Management survey in 2011, 62% of respondents had at least one BACnet application; for LonWorks the percentage was 40%, while for Modbus the number was 30%.

In HVAC/R applications it is helpful to understand the methods used to determine air velocity. Air velocity (distance traveled per unit of time) is most often expressed in feet per minute (FPM).  Multiplying air velocity by the area of a duct allows you to determine the air volume flowing past a point in the duct per unit of time. Volume flow is generally measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM).

Setra's MR Series features a lineup of cutting-edge pressure transducers designed for HVAC applications. From the adaptable MR1 and MR2 to the high-performance MRG and versatile MRC, each product in this series combines multi-range capabilities with top-tier performance. In this article, we'll delve into the features and advantages of these sensors, showcasing why they're the go-to choice for contractors looking for reliability, flexibility, and precision in their HVAC applications.

MR1 (Low Range)

The Setra MR1 is the ideal product for any contractor, combining the flexibility of a multi-range with the performance of a single range sensor. The MR1 has 8 selectable ranges (0.1, 0.25, 0.5, and 1.0” W.C.) and 3 selectable outputs, easily adjustable on the job with a flip of a switch or jumper. The MR1 uses an IP67/NEMA 4-rated housing and has a conduit fitting for easy wiring, making the MR1 an ideal solution for any general HVAC application.

MR2 (High Range)

The Setra MR2 stands out as the perfect choice for contractors, merging the versatility of a multi-range sensor with the efficiency of a single range sensor. With 8 selectable ranges (1.0, 2.5, 5.0, and 10” W.C.) and 3 selectable outputs, it's effortlessly adaptable on-site with a simple switch or jumper adjustment. Encased in an IP67/NEMA 4-rated housing and featuring a conduit fitting for straightforward wiring, the MR2 is an excellent fit for various general HVAC applications.

Converting mA to voltage is common in HVAC when working with pressure transducers. Terminology to keep in mind includes:

• 1 mA = 0.001 AMP (short for amperes)
• Amps are referred to as CURRENT
• Resistor values are in OHMS (Ω is the symbol for ohms)
• VOLTAGE is the result of passing amps through a resistor

One of the greatest fears in the general population is the rapid spread of infectious disease. While there are many strategies employed to prevent these infectious diseases from becoming an outbreak, the only way to treat patients without risking the spread of disease is through the use of isolation rooms. Isolation rooms are designed to prevent contaminated particles from spreading beyond a quarantined area by ensuring air is exhausted from the room and filtered through a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter before it is vented outside of the building.

OEM and mechanical parts suppliers adopting ISO Standards is increasingly common throughout the US, driven by a spike in industry demand for components manufactured in ISO compliant factories. In addition to existing and increasing demand for ISO compliance in clean rooms, healthcare spaces, and laboratories, manufacturing facilities like automotive, electronics, loT, and industrial are now adapting to observe these standards. To be ISO compliant, all of these spaces need highly accurate, reliable, and NIST-traceable sensors for monitoring.

Building automation systems (BAS) are increasingly common in a variety of environments to make HVAC systems as efficient as possible and reduce the need for in-person monitoring of pressure in each area. The value of a BAS relies heavily on a number of components seamlessly integrated together. Pressure transducers that conduct intensely accurate measurements work in tandem with room pressure monitors presenting real-time data and raising alarms if something goes wrong. Calibration equipment ensures building automation tools work smoothly and accurately without the need to oversee them. A BAS can be used in many applications, from filter monitoring to green buildings to zone control in critical environments.

In a hospital environment, alarm fatigue is an increasingly prevalent issue. Alarm fatigue is the sensory overload when clinicians are exposed to an excessive number of alarms; this can result in staff ignoring alarms, particularly if different devices employ similar sounds or frequencies. Nuisance alarms are those not representative of a patient in danger but come from devices that don't allow configuration for non-critical circumstances.

Energy management is a growing practice among companies that operate large buildings, campuses, and other complex facilities. Successful energy management requires detailed information on how energy is being used. However, this valuable information is not available in facilities being actively monitored. For effective energy management, facility engineers need to understand exactly how and where energy is being consumed on their properties.

The goal of any commercial property owner is to attract tenants while also still being profitable. Operating a large building often means having a lot of expenses and other overhead costs, whether they be for maintenance, repairs, utilities, or the multitude of other expenditures any business could incur.