What is pressure gauge

Pressure gauges, which are devices that measure the internal pressure of media within a system, are among the most often used instruments in any given industrial facility. Pressure measurement is, along with temperature measurement, one of the most important measurements for operations in a wide variety of applications – especially industrial applications – and it is essential in ensuring both the quality of a product and the safety of a facility and its personnel.

Pressure gauges are used to monitor and control pressure – which is often a necessity in industrial processing. Without pressure gauges, industrial processing systems would be both unpredictable and unreliable.

Pressure gauges are used by industry professionals to troubleshoot fluid power machines – which are designed to work within a set pressure range. With properly installed gauges, leaks and unwanted pressure changes can be monitored and addressed immediately.

Types of Pressure Gauges and How They Work

Often, the terms pressure gauge, sensor, transducer, and transmitter are used interchangeably. The term pressure gauge usually refers to a self-contained indicator that converts the detected process pressure into the mechanical motion of a pointer. Pressure gauges can either be mechanical or digital.

The first pressure gauges used flexible elements as sensors. As pressure changed, the flexible element moved, and this motion was used to rotate a pointer in front of a dial. In these mechanical pressure sensors, a Bourdon tube, a diaphragm, or a bellows element detected the process pressure and caused a corresponding movement.