How to Measure Pressure
Oct
Pressure Measurement
Pressure measurement determines the force per unit area exerted by a fluid or gas, typically in pascals (Pa) or pounds per square inch (psi).
It is vital for safety, efficiency, and precision in various fields, such as weather monitoring, industrial automation, and medical devices. Accurate pressure measurement helps prevent accidents and optimise processes.
This guide explains pressure measurement techniques and details their industrial applications.
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How Do You Measure Pressure?
Pressure can be positive or negative. Negative pressure occurs when the pressure in a space is lower than the surrounding environment. Most pressure sensors measure pressure differences, allowing them to measure both positive and negative pressure.
There are Three Main Types of Pressure Measurements:
- Absolute pressure: Measured relative to a perfect vacuum (zero pressure)
- Gauge pressure: Measured relative to ambient atmospheric pressure
- Differential pressure: Measured as the difference between two pressures
Basics of Pressure & Pressure Measurement
What is Pressure?
Pressure is the force exerted by a liquid or gas on a surface.
Why Measure Pressure?
Measuring pressure is crucial in manufacturing to ensure product quality. Accurate instruments help maintain process quality and prevent errors.
Applications
Pressure measurement is essential in various industries, including chemical plants, oil and gas, petrochemicals, water, food and beverages, concrete, heating and cooling, lumber, and paper products.
Different sensors are available, each with unique strengths and limitations, to match specific industry needs and applications.
More information here: What is pressure measurement?
Methods for Measuring Pressure: Mechanical, Electrical, and Optical
Mechanical Pressure Gauges
These use components like springs and diaphragms to measure pressure. They are usually less expensive but can be less accurate and reliable.
Electrical Pressure Sensors
Using components like strain gauges and piezoelectric crystals, these sensors offer greater accuracy and reliability compared to mechanical gauges, though they are more costly.
Optical Pressure Sensors
These sensors measure pressure using light. They provide the highest accuracy and reliability but are also the most expensive.
What Instrument is Used to Measure Pressure?
Pressure sensors, pressure transducers, and pressure transmitters are all devices used to measure pressure, but they have different characteristics and applications.
- Pressure Sensors provide a millivolt output signal and are used for basic pressure measurements
- Pressure Transducers offer an amplified voltage output, suitable for more precise measurements
- Pressure Transmitters deliver a 4-20mA output signal, ideal for long-distance transmission and industrial applications
Browse our pressure sensors, submersible level transmitters and level sensors designed to meet the diverse needs of UK and Ireland businesses.
Pressure & Level Sensors
DMP333 High Range ATEX IECEX Pressure Transmitter 100 bar to 600 bar
Pressure & Level Sensors
DMP331 Low Range Atex IECEX Pressure Transmitter 100 mbar to 60 bar
The Three Main Types of Pressure Measurement
Selecting the appropriate sensor depends on the measurement purpose, environmental conditions, and the substance being measured. Absolute, gauge, and differential sensors serve different applications based on these factors.
Absolute Pressure Sensors
Measure pressure against a perfect vacuum (absolute zero). The measurement is constant regardless of location or altitude. Example: 1 bar measured by an absolute sensor is the same anywhere.
Gauge Pressure Sensors
Measure pressure relative to local atmospheric pressure, typically omitting negative signs. Example: 1 bar gauge pressure at high altitude means the absolute pressure is lower than at sea level.
Differential Pressure Sensors
Measure the difference between two pressure points, often used to monitor flow in pipes or ducts. They can detect blockages or valve issues by comparing upstream and downstream pressures.
What is a Pressure Measurement Sensor?
A pressure sensor measures the force exerted by a fluid (gas or liquid) in contact with it, quantified in units like pascals (Pa) or pounds per square inch (psi).
Principles of Operation:
- Piezoelectric: Generates an electrical charge in response to mechanical stress caused by pressure.
- Capacitive: Changes in capacitance between two plates due to pressure-induced deflection result in a measurable voltage change.
- Resistive: Pressure-induced deformations alter electrical resistance, providing measurable data.
Applications: Pressure sensors are vital for safety, efficiency, and accuracy in various applications, including weather monitoring, industrial automation, and medical devices. They provide real-time data for monitoring, control, and analysis.
Commonly used in Industry for monitoring processes involving liquids or gases under specific pressure conditions.
Explore our in-depth guide to learn more about pressure sensors and their applications.
Industrial Uses for Pressure Sensors
Industrial Use | Description |
Flow Monitoring | Measure flow rates and velocities of liquids, gases, and steam in pipelines and ductwork to optimise flows and prevent overload. |
Level Measurement | Monitor fluid level height in tanks by measuring hydrostatic pressure changes to prevent overfills or running dry. |
Altitude and Draft Sensing | Serve as altimeters in aircraft and drones for navigation and drafting by measuring air pressure changes. |
Leak Detection | Detects abnormal pressure drops indicating potential breaches or leaks in pipes, tanks, and vessels for timely repairs. |
Valve Control | Control valve open percentages accurately to govern desired flow rates by monitoring system pressure changes. |
Condition Monitoring | Diagnose emerging issues with pumps, compressors, blowers, and other machinery before failure by detecting deviations from expected pressure profiles. |
Weather Compensation | Measure real-time barometric pressure to aid equipment in compensating for weather changes affecting flows, filling, pressure differentials, and calibration. |
Industrial Pressure & Level Sensors in the UK & Ireland
Discover our comprehensive range of industrial pressure and level sensors tailored to the diverse needs of businesses in the UK and Ireland.
At Process Parameters, we are your trusted supplier of high-quality pressure and level sensors, known for their accuracy and reliability across all industries and applications. From industrial pressure sensors to level sensors for process monitoring and quality control, we have the perfect solution for your needs.
If you have any questions or need assistance in finding the best pressure or level sensor for your application, please get in touch. We also offer a calibration service, including temperature sensor calibration.
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DMP333 High Range ATEX IECEX Pressure Transmitter 100 bar to 600 bar
Pressure & Level Sensors
DMP331 Low Range Atex IECEX Pressure Transmitter 100 mbar to 60 bar
How to Measure Pressure FAQs
What are the types of pressure measurement?
The main types of pressure measurement are absolute, gauge, and differential. Absolute pressure measures pressure relative to a perfect vacuum, gauge pressure measures pressure relative to atmospheric pressure, and differential pressure measures the difference between two pressure points.
What are the units of measurement for pressure?
Pressure is measured in various units, with the most common being pascals (Pa), pounds per square inch (psi), and bar. Each unit is used in different contexts, depending on industry standards and regional preferences.
What is the measurement of industrial pressure?
Industrial pressure typically refers to the pressure conditions encountered in manufacturing and processing environments. It is measured in units like psi, Pa, or bar, depending on the specific requirements of the application and industry standards.
What pressure is used in industry?
The pressure used in industry varies widely based on the application, often ranging from a few psi for low-pressure systems to several thousand psi in high-pressure processes. Different industries, such as oil and gas or manufacturing, have specific pressure requirements tailored to their operational needs.
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