The Importance of Dew Point Measurement

Ozone Generation

Ozone (O₃) is a powerful oxidising agent widely used in water purification, wastewater treatment, pharmaceutical and food processing and disinfection applications. Compared to chlorine, ozone provides a stronger oxidation potential and leaves no harmful chlorinated byproducts — only oxygen.

However, ozone generation, especially by corona discharge (CD), is extremely sensitive to moisture in the feed gas. Even tiny amounts of water vapour can reduce ozone yield, cause arcing and trigger nitric acid formation, leading to corrosion and shortened equipment life. Monitoring dew point is therefore essential to maintain performance and safety.

Ozone Generation and Sensitivity to Moisture
Most ozone is produced by the corona discharge method, where a high voltage splits oxygen (O₂) molecules, allowing single atoms to recombine into ozone (O₃). This process demands an extremely dry gas stream, typically between −60 °C and −80 °C dew point for air fed systems.
If moisture enters the feed gas, it can:
• Increase electrical conductivity, causing arcing and dielectric failure.
• React with nitrogen oxides to form nitric acid, leading to corrosion.
• Reduce ozone yield by up to 50 % or more at higher dew points.
• Damage PSA oxygen concentrators, lowering purity and output.

Dew Point Monitoring in Ozone Systems
Dew point meters play a critical role in protecting and optimising ozone generators. They:
• Continuously measure moisture in the feed gas after the dryer.
• Integrate with PLC or SCADA systems for trend logging and alarms.
• Trigger automatic shutdowns when dew point levels rise above safe limits.
Portable dew point meters are also useful for start-up checks, troubleshooting and quality assurance.

Reliable Ozone Performance Starts with Dry Gas
Even minor increases in dew point can significantly reduce ozone yield, accelerate corrosion and damage concentrators. Continuous dew point measurement protects system integrity, ensures consistent ozone concentration and extends equipment service life, making moisture measurement a critical parameter in every ozone generation system.