What Is an Anemometer? Types and Selection Criteria
An anemometer is a measuring instrument that measures the speed of wind or of air leaving a duct or grille, and depending on the model also shows temperature and airflow.
An anemometer (wind speed meter) is a measuring instrument that measures the speed of wind outdoors or of air leaving a ventilation duct or grille. The models in the catalog are handheld vane anemometers: the airflow turns the vane and the instrument calculates air speed from its rotation speed. They are used for adjusting ventilation and air-conditioning systems, checking filters and fans, and assessing wind safety for cranes, scaffolding and roof work.
Types
| Type | Feature | Model in the catalog |
|---|---|---|
| Mini anemometer | Vane built into the body, used with one hand | UNI-T UT363, UT363S |
| Mini anemometer with Bluetooth | Sends readings to a phone app | UNI-T UT363BT |
| Anemometer with memory and airflow | Logs readings and shows airflow (FLOW) | UNI-T UT362 |
Selection criteria
- Range and accuracy: The product data gives 0–30 m/s for the UT363, and 0.4–30 m/s with ±(5 % + 0.5 m/s) accuracy for the UT363S. At very low speeds the vane does not start turning; check the lower limit in the datasheet.
- Units: The UT363S measures in m/s, km/h, ft/min, knots and mph. Ventilation work commonly uses m/s, wind safety km/h or the Beaufort scale; the UT363BT product data lists a wind scale display.
- Airflow: In a duct or grille, airflow is the average speed times the cross-sectional area (Q = v × A). If you want to see airflow directly, choose the UT362, whose product data lists an airflow (FLOW) display; check how the area is entered in the user manual.
- Logging and transfer: The UT362 stores 2044 records; the UT363BT sends readings to a phone. Check these features for jobs that need a report.
- Temperature: Most models also show air temperature; at an air-conditioning outlet, speed and temperature are read together.
Common mistakes
- Holding the vane at an angle to the flow: Speed reads low; the vane face must be perpendicular to the flow.
- Measuring at a single point on a grille: Speed is not evenly spread at the outlet; measure at several points and take the average.
- Deciding on a momentary value: Wind varies; for crane and scaffolding work, watch the maximum (MAX) and apply the limit in the safety instructions.
Anemometers at Welibaba
The Anemometers category has 4 active products from Unit, all listed with prices: UT362, UT363, UT363S and UT363BT. For sound, light and vibration meters, see the environmental measuring instruments guide.
Frequently asked questions
What does an anemometer measure?
The speed of the airflow; depending on the model, also the air temperature and, once the area is entered, the airflow.
How is airflow measured in a ventilation duct?
Speed is measured at several points across the duct or grille section, averaged and multiplied by the area. On a model that shows airflow, the calculation is done on the instrument.
Which model should I choose?
For outdoor wind checks and quick measurements the UT363 or UT363S is enough. To send readings to a phone choose the UT363BT; for grille and duct measurements that need logging and airflow, the UT362 is more practical.