ASTM E 337 : 2015 : R2023

1.1.1This test method covers the determination of the humidity of atmospheric air by means of wet- and dry-bulb temperature readings.

1.1.2This test method is applicable for meteorological measurements at the earth's surface, for the purpose of the testing of materials, and for the determination of the relative humidity of most standard atmospheres and test atmospheres.

1.1.3This test method is also applicable when the temperature of the wet bulb only is required. In this case, the instrument comprises a wet-bulb thermometer only.

1.1.4Relative humidity (RH) does not denote a unit. Uncertainties in the relative humidity are expressed in the form RH ± rh %, which means that the relative humidity is expected to lie in the range (RH − rh) % to (RH  + rh) %, where RH is the observed relative humidity. All uncertainties are at the 95 % confidence level.

1.2.1This method incorporates the psychrometer ventilated by aspiration. The aspirated psychrometer is more accurate than the sling (whirling) psychrometer (see Method B), and it offers advantages in regard to the space which it requires, the possibility of using alternative types of thermometers (for example, electrical), easier shielding of thermometer bulbs from extraneous radiation, accidental breakage, and convenience.

1.2.2This method is applicable within the ambient temperature range 5 °C to 80 °C, wet-bulb temperatures not lower than 1 °C, and restricted to ambient pressures not differing from standard atmospheric pressure by more than 30 %.

1.3.1This method incorporates the psychrometer ventilated by whirling (sling psychrometer).

1.3.2This method is applicable within the ambient temperature range 5 °C to 50 °C, wet-bulb temperatures not lower than 1 °C and restricted to ambient pressures not differing from standard atmospheric pressure by more than 30 %.