You may be wondering what exactly a pressure transducer is and how it is used in everyday applications.
A pressure transducer — which is also known as a pressure sensor, pressure indicator or pressure transmitter — is an instrument that is used to measure the amount of pressure that is being applied in a given condition. The sensor gages the amount of pressure being applied and thus generates an electrical signal. That signal is sent to a device that demonstrates the amount of pressure being measured.
The signal between the transducer and the device displaying the amount of applied pressure is passed along a cable. Most transducers are considered to be analog, although digital ones are coming into the fold. The output electrical signal by most common pressure transducers is 0-5V, or else as a 4-20 mA signal.
A pressure transducer is usually made of platinum, although there are types that are manufactured from stainless steel, depending on the application the transducer is being used for.
There are five basic types of pressure transducers that are commonly used. They include the following:
- Absolute pressure transducer. This measures pressure referring to a perfect vacuum.
- Vacuum pressure transducer. This measures pressure that is less than atmospheric pressure.
- Gauge pressure transducer. This is adjusted so that the pressure relative to atmospheric pressure can be measured.
- Sealed pressure transducer. This is a type of gauge pressure transducer that is used in applications where sea level pressure is considered.
- Differential pressure transducer. This measures the pressure between two defined end-positions.
Pressure transducers are used in a wide gamut of industries, including aerospace defense, space exploration, oceanography, renewable energy solutions, and manufacturing.
More information about pressure transducer applications will be provided in upcoming posts.
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