Instrument that takes the measurement of water vapor in the air. The water-saturated cloth wick over the reservoir bulb at the end of the tube, which holds the liquid. When the thermometer is swung through the air, the 0evaporation of the water in the wick speed up and the temperature recorded varies depending on the water vapor in the air. It determines humidity when used along with a dry-bulb thermometer and a calibration chart.
Wet-dry vac
The primary purpose of the wet/dry vac is to make cleanup around the home, garage and basement quicker and more efficient for the homeowner. It affords the capability of picking up debris that shouldn't be approached with standard home vacuum cleaners, such as wood chips, gravel and wet pick-up. Canisters are usually designed for easy opening and emptying of collected material.
Wet-film thickness
The estimated thickness of a wet paint surface, which is based on the characteristics of the paint, used.
Wet-pipe sprinkler system
System providing protection, in the event of fire, by keeping a pressurized water supply in the pipes. When sufficient heat is present, the sprinkler heads open, spraying water on the area in question.
Wet-rubbed finish limestone
Limestone whose finish has been rubbed smooth by use of an abrasive.
Wet-sand cleaning
Sand blasting, which is used on hard surfaces and is abrasive, due to the fact that the sand is carried in a stream of water rather than air.
Wetlands
Land situated near water that meets various criteria regarding water level, soils, and plant growth. Wetlands are subject to extreme levels of government regulation regarding building activity. Wetlands may include swamps, marshes, and floodplains, or may appear to be relatively dry areas at certain times.
Wetting agent
A substance added to water that increases its ability to wet surfaces, especially those that are waxy or oily.
Wetting characteristics
The ability of any coating to flow across a surface.
Wheatstone bridge
A conductor that joins two branches of an electrical circuit to compare electrical resistance makes up the bridge, which helps determine electrical resistance by comparing the unknown value with a known value.
