Construction Today, Vol 20 Issue 6 - November 2023 | Page 24

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▼ Partnering with an expert in moisture measurement and composition analysis can be essential to ensure the safety and performance of products and processes
▼ Because industrial settings can be instruments that can endure the rigo and tear of production
Improper moisture management in construction can endanger not only safety but also the project . A structure built on improperly cured concrete is unsafe . Insufficiently cured adhesives or mastics can lack strength , allowing materials to come loose over time . Excessive moisture can also lead to mold growth , metal corrosion , structural deterioration , and chemical breakdowns in finishes and adhesives .
Given the importance of accurate measurement and analysis , it is becoming an industry best practice to partner with an expert that can provide not only guidance in instrument selection and calibration but also ongoing training and consultation .
Analyzer manufacturers with expertise can tailor the instrument to the specific needs of the application . The first step is research to determine the most common types of instrument usage errors in the industry , so it is vital to take corrective steps to improve overall safety and performance .
To understand the issue of industrial instrument problems in greater depth , a provider of testing instruments reviewed many independent studies across industries and sectors . The results indicated that contractors encounter several types of instrument challenges .
Risk reduction
In some cases , contractors could not find the appropriate moisture measurement or composition analysis instruments for their specific type of production . Instead , they relied on analyzers that did not provide the required accuracy , consistency , or repeatable results .
Alternatively , some instruments failed due to abrasive wear and tear or exposure to harsh conditions . Extended exposure to moisture , salts , or chemical solvents , for example , can accelerate corrosion , breakdown , and the need for replacement .
Construction contractors also reported they often did not have enough support from suppliers to evaluate , install , and calibrate the instruments or train their personnel on proper operation . Errors occurred when employees improperly handled and used
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