ADPS-08-2-N-C – Reliable Fan and Filter Pressure Monitoring for Airport BAS

Airports Use DwyerOmega Building Automation System Products

Tapping your foot anxiously, you glance at your airline ticket and the terminal noted on it. The flight will be boarding in a few minutes. As you look around, there are several other people waiting for this flight; it seems the plane is fully booked. You close your eyes and breathe in deeply, calming your nerves. The air seems fresh, not stagnant, despite the large number of people around you.

This is not by accident.

Airports must maintain a comfortable, clean, and safe indoor environment for thousands of passengers daily. They rely on intelligent Building Automation Systems (BAS) to constantly monitor and adjust air quality, temperature, pressure, and energy consumption—all while operating 24/7.

Large and complex airports are divided into multiple zones and rely on localized HVAC systems—each requiring precise sensor inputs for optimal operation. From air handling units (AHUs) to terminal-wide exhaust systems, every component must respond dynamically to changing loads, occupancy, and environmental conditions.

Differential Pressure Monitoring: Key to Efficient Filter and Fan Operation

Among the most critical elements monitored by a BAS are differential pressure levels—used to determine airflow across filters, fans, and dampers.

The Dwyer ADPS-08-2-N-C differential pressure switch is a robust solution for this task. With a wide adjustable pressure range (200–2000 Pa), it is ideal for applications involving:

• Monitoring pressure drop across industrial air filters (HEPA, carbon, etc.)

• Controlling start/stop of high-power ventilation fans in parking garages or baggage areas

• Triggering alerts when filters are clogged or fans are underperforming

• Maintaining pressurization zones in cleanrooms, data centers, or secure airport areas

Because of its mechanical design, the ADPS-08-2-N-C does not require electrical power to operate, making it simple to install, extremely reliable, and energy-efficient. Its SPDT dry contact output integrates easily with PLCs, alarms, or centralized BAS platforms.

Example Use Case: Basement Ventilation Fan Monitoring

In many airports, parking garages and service basements use large exhaust fans to remove carbon monoxide, smoke, or heat. These systems must comply with fire and building codes while operating efficiently. The ADPS-08-2-N-C can be installed across the fan inlet and outlet or across a filter section to detect abnormal pressure conditions, such as a failing motor or clogged intake.

Its built-in setpoint dial allows quick configuration, while its IP-rated housing withstands harsh, dusty, or humid environments.

Part of a Complete DwyerOmega BAS Solution

As highlighted in the original article, airports rely on a variety of sensors to maintain indoor air quality:

• PMI Series – Real-time particulate matter monitoring

• Humidity/Temperature/CO₂ Sensors – Maintain comfort and health standards

• Differential Pressure Transmitters – Control fan speeds, reduce energy consumption

• Air Velocity Transmitters – Optimize airflow distribution

• ADPS Series – Filter and fan performance monitoring via dry contact switching

By adding the ADPS-08-2-N-C to this sensor lineup, facility managers and engineers gain greater control over high-pressure applications—whether it's air pressurization of secure terminal areas or ensuring proper ventilation in high-traffic maintenance zones.

Need Help Specifying the Right Model?

DwyerOmega's complete line of building automation sensors—including pressure switches, transmitters, and air quality monitoring tools—are tailored to the needs of modern airports.