Gann Chemical Hygrometer (Calcium Carbide Meter)
The Hydromat is a device for determining the dampness of hardened building materials and various other materials using the calcium carbide method. The use of this measuring technique is recommended by various specialist associations for a range of measurement tasks and has thus been well known for years in practice alongside electrical measurement.
The Hydromat is easy to use. All measurements can be made directly on the object using the tools contained in the carrying case and enable rapid information to be obtained concerning the current state of dampness.
The decision as to whether a floor or wall surface is ready for covering, for example, can be made immediately.
Important Features:
- especially compact pressure flask
- specially shaped flask bottom
- variable closure system
- small test quantity (e.g. 20/50 g)
- case size: ca. H 380x W 430x D 130 mm
- weight of case: complete ca. 7.1 kg.
- Comes in a wooden case
0.14 to 22.9 CM-% using conversion table
0.3 to 7.5 CM-% directly using manometer
Please note that the Reagent (Calcium Carbide) is not included and should be ordered as a seperate item.
To order extra Speedy Calcium Carbide Reagent for this item
Important Information on Calcium Carbide and how to Use the Speedy Moisture Meter
The calcium carbide reagent used with the Speedy tester is a hazardous product that must be handled with care by the user and with consideration for the environment.
Users of the Speedy must be familiar with the Speedy Moisture Test Procedure detailed in this manual.
Users must also follow calcium carbide transportation, storage, handling and disposal guidelines in accordance with local regulations and/or the calcium carbide Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). Users should be familiar with the hazard identification, first aid measures, fire-fighting measures, accidental release measures, personal protection measures, physical and chemical properties, stability and reactivity, toxicological information, and ecological information as given in the MSDS
NOTE!
Unopened Tins have a foil seal and screw cap, which means shelf life is virtually unlimited, however, once opened the Calcium Carbide does absorb moisture and oxygen and if used/opened regularly can affect the moisture readings.
For Court work and critical work it is advised to only use NEW tins at all times.
General
Molecular formula: CaC2
CAS No: 75-20-7
Physical data
Appearance: grey or black solid with a garlic-like odour
Melting point: 2300 C
Vapour density: 2.2 (air = 1)
Density (g cm-3): 2.22
Water solubility: decomposes
Stability
Reacts violently with water liberating highly flammable gas (acetylene). Do not use water if this material is involved in a fire.
The equation for Calcium Carbides reaction with water is
CaC2 + 2 H2O → C2H2 + Ca(OH)2
Therefore, 1 gram of CaC2 gives 349ml of acetylene.
Incompatible with moisture, water, strong oxidizing agents, alcohols, hydrogen chloride, magnesium.
Toxicology
Harmful if inhaled, swallowed and in contact with skin. Contact with skin may cause severe irritation or burns
Risk phrases
R15 Contact with water liberates extremely flammable gases.
R20 Harmful by inhalation.
R21 Harmful in contact with skin.
R22 Harmful if swallowed.
R38 Irritating to skin.
Personal protection
Safety glasses, good ventilation. Do not use near water.
The Six Step Moisture Test Procedure
1. Weigh sample
2. Place in speedy
3. Add Reagent
4. Seal speedy
5. Shake speedy
6. Take Reading
To order extra Speedy Calcium Carbide Reagent for this item
ETI Moisture Meter 
