Low pressure sensors are used in thousands of everyday applications to control and monitor pressure, usually in gases or liquids. Low pressure transducers convert applied pressure to electrical signals. They consist of two parts, generally: An elastic material that deforms when pressure is applied, and an electrical part that detects the deformation.
Various Uses for Low Pressure Sensors
Depending on the design, these sensors can be used in a number of cost-sensitive OEM applications. For example, some are perfect for HVAC applications, and in the measurement of very low flow rates of gases. They can be used in null pressure detection and small leak detection systems, fuel vapor and air pressure measurement applications, and fluid-level sensing in home appliances.
How Do Low Pressure Transducers Work?
The elastic material used in pressure low pressure transducers is given different sizes and shapes depending on the range of pressures it’s measuring. The diaphragm is the most common. One of three types of electrical device is then attached to the elastic material: Resistive, capacitive or inductive.
Desirable Service Features
It’s clear that when such precision is required, only the highest quality and the most reliable product will do. Low pressure sensors should be designed to perform in a variety of harsh environments, including extreme temperatures, vibration, chemical contamination, as well as thermal and mechanical shock.
Sensor Input Systems
Once data is acquired from a low pressure sensor or transducer, often there is a need for a system that accepts sensor inputs directly, allowing for quick analysis and action if necessary. For instance, General Motors uses a Standard Thermal Instrument for testing of vehicles at their Proving Ground. It allows a single data acquisition system to serve multiple engineering groups and vendors involved in thermal testing of vehicles.
This allows thermal testing to be carried out without reinstalling pressure sensors when a vehicle is moved from test group to test group, which saves time both by avoiding the need for duplicate sensor installation and by avoiding the need for repeated recalibration.
Low pressure sensors and transducers are vital to performance in a number of applications, so choosing the right manufacturer or supplier is crucial to success. Experience and a solid track record are key, so be sure to do your research before trusting any company with such an important component of your business.
