One of the most common types of industrial measurement is pressure and the easiest way to measure it is with a gauge. The kind of pressure gauge you choose will depend on the application. The three types available are analog, dial, and digital.
People who frequently use dial gauges know they require non-stop re-calibration and repair. Experts estimate that most plants have a minimum of 25% of dial indicators need immediate replacement, and 40% need repair. The problems occur because dial gauges don’t stand up to many modern applications.
Analog or mechanical gauges are used for a wide variety of applications because they are accurate enough in the right circumstances. Much like a bathroom scale, they use a needle pointing at a number on a scale that shows the pressure sensed by the element. Analog gauges require zero power, rarely require maintenance, and are adaptable.
These monitors rely on either the Bourdon Tube or the Bellows principle. The Bourdon principle focuses on the fact that when subjected to pressure a curved tube straightens. The gauges are suited to applications involving medium to the highest pressures. Bellows gauges are a good choice if the pressure you’re measuring is in a range lower than Bourdon tube can measure. They have the accuracy for these levels of measurement and are sturdy enough to handle many different situations.
When Accuracy is Critical
Of the three, digital pressure gauges are the most accurate. In applications that require accuracy old equipment simply doesn’t compare. In addition to precision, digital gauges offer other advantages. Digital pressure gauges are excellent for many measurements and industries like processes that monitor the use of hydraulics/pneumatics, pumps, and so many other testing operations.
These high-tech digital gauges are transportable, rugged, and well designed for longevity. They’re manufactured to withstand potentially damaging occurrences like vibration and excessive pressure. They use advanced sensors and microprocessors that rapidly provide accurate, easy to read results on a digital indicator. The digital pressure gauge will reduce your need to calculate pressure by reading measurement units including bar, psi, and MPa.
The diaphragm is the only moving part in a digital pressure gauge, and it’s a thin metal layer that has an electric circuit attached. The diaphragm flexes against pressure, and the circuit reads the resistance in direct proportion to the applied pressure. The new technology is known as piezoresistive. Apparently, the newer digital pressure gauges offer you lots of functionality that will help you enhance your stress test results and analysis.
Features to Consider When Choosing a Digital Pressure Gauge
Study your working environment and identify your use. What are you measuring? How often are you measuring? What type of display will work best for what you do? For example, an LCD allows for longer work periods while LED display offers more power and an easier readout. Look for a gauge that can continuously monitor and update relevant data.
Having maximum and minimum values recorded will show you what’s happening when you are not there. Even better is the unit with full storage capacity. With these types of gauges, you can review test results and often can link to a computer. Identify the features you need and find the pressure gauge that fits that need.