Wind Socks

[nanuuk]

I need to get some wind socks for my refrigerated warehouse and was wondering on what type to get. I have seen a lot of styles out there some are very stiff and I don't think that they would give a very good indication on wind direction if the wind speed was quite low. Any input would be greatly appreciated thank you and have a great day!

[Brian_UK]

Well here is an interesting fundamental question which really is asking about the wrong item.

You want a windsock to show you wind direction at low airspeeds.

A windsock will probably be fully extended at around 15mph (24kph) but may not be the best tool to show wind direction.

If you want wind direction then a wind or weather vane would be the better tool to use.

You could buy/fit purely mechanical items or go for a combined electronic indicator.

Interested to know why the state of the wind is of such importance for your installation, do you have poor insulation at your cold store?

[nanuuk]

The reason why a wind sock is that I need to have something that can be seen from a distance. Usually bright orange in color. The main reason for a wind sock and one that indicates wind direction at low wind velocities is to let people know what direction not to move in in the event of an ammonia leak hence refrigerated warehouse which we use ammonia as our refrigerant.

[Brian_UK]

These people reckon their windsocks indicate at minimal wind speeds.

https://www.aircraftspruce.ca/catalog/pspages/airportWindsock.php

[PaulZ]

Hi nanuuk
Windsocks only show the direction at the height they are positioned.
You should consider ground level wind indicators as well and position them so they can be seen from building exits. The wind can swirl around buildings and other structures and in the event of an ammonia leak the ammonia cloud can travel backwards against the indicated wind direction, it can also be forced downward and sideways around buildings.
Regards
Paul

[NH3LVR]

This should not be a hard thing to locate.
https://www.windsockusa.com/?gclid=CjwKCAjwpIjZBRBsEiwA0TN1r2YHkRmxSqMb6gwLiiJhCCGiZjSP47regf8zxJVZh-_v_bDAgtIKUBoCtEkQAvD_BwE
Check with a safety supply company. I have installed them before.

[nanuuk]

Thank you for your input gentleman much appreciated.