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How to install sensors directly on timber

Step-by-step guide to installing Tector sensors on timber

The basic steps for installing Tector sensors on timber are straightforward, but customizations may be necessary depending on your measurement needs. Follow these basic steps and refer to the customization section as needed.

Basic installation steps

  1. Identify location
    • Choose the appropriate location on the timber where the sensor will be installed.
  2. Mount the sensor
    • Use the accompanying screws to mount the sensor.
    • Ensure the head of the screw makes contact with the metal plate in the eyes of the sensor.
    • Ensure the pins are not measuring across panels of timber, such as in LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber).
  3. Register the sensor
  • Scan the QR code with your phone’s camera and follow the setup instructions.
  • Fill out the location details, choose the sensor type, and upload two photos: one from a distance and one from +2 meters away.
  • Fill out tags or copy from previously installed sensors.
  • Note the sensor’s placement and ID on a physical blueprint, then attach the sensors to the corresponding locations on the digital blueprint in the application on your computer.

Customization instructions

Orientation

  • Rain exposure: If the sensor will be exposed to significant rainfall, place the sensor upside down so that the measuring pins are pointing towards the ground.
  • Normal conditions: Otherwise, place the measuring pins with the timber fibers.

Insulated Pins

  • When to insulate: Insulate the pins to measure the wood moisture content at a specific depth or to avoid high spikes in moisture readings caused by surface water.
  • Drilling specifications: If using insulated pins, pre-drill a hole with the following specifications:
    • Diameter: 1mm thicker than the screw diameter.
    • Depth: the length of the insulation on the screw

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Extensions

  • Usage: Use extensions with insulated pins, especially when measuring in tight spaces or if the sensor needs to be replaced after battery use.
  • Installation: Install the insulated pins with extensions, using the metal washer and PVC washer included in the package.

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Mounting the sensors with extensions

  •  If you have insulated pins AND an extension, it’s important to remember the accompanying washers in between the extension and the timber to prevent surface readings. The correct order of installation, as shown in the illustration below, is to place the PVC washer closest to the wood, then the metal washer, then the eye of the extension and finally the screw at the very top. 

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  • Nylon wire screw mount cable tie: Use this method to keep the sensor in place. This is especially useful if measuring in a CLT roof element from below or attaching the sensor casing to a column while the wood moisture reading is taken elsewhere.

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Important tips

  • Ensure the head of the screw contacts the metal plate in the sensor’s eyes.
  • Avoid placing sensors across timber panels.
  • Register sensors accurately to ensure proper monitoring and data recording.

By following these steps and tips, you can ensure accurate moisture monitoring for your timber structures and avoid common installation mistakes.