You measure pressure with a pressure transducer. It uses a sensor to translate the force exerted into electrical signals. Afterward, these electrical impulses are transmitted to controllers or PLCs for processing and recording. Pressure transducers use strain gauges to gauge the force exerted on them.
What’s a Pressure Transducer?
Pressure is translated into an analog electrical signal by a sensor known as a pressure transducer. Although there are numerous varieties of pressure transducers, strain gauges are one of the most widely used.
The pressure is converted to an electric signal by a strain gauge’s physical distortion when coupled to a Wheatstone bridge structure and attached to the diaphragm of a pressure transducer. The pressure you apply to the pressure transducer will cause the diaphragm to deflect, putting strain on the gauge. The resistance will change in response to the stress in a way that reflects the strain. It is typically used in many monitoring and control applications, such as pump, level, and flow systems.
Pressure (P=F/A) (pounds per square inch) is defined as the amount of force (exercised by a gas or liquid) that is applied per unit “area.” It is frequently expressed in bars (bar), pascals (Pa), N/mm2, or psi.
Because the resistance of the piezoresistive element varies proportionally to the applied pressure, piezoresistive technology is frequently used in pressure transducers.
How does a pressure transducer work
A constant-area pressure-sensitive element, like a diaphragm, makes up a pressure transducer. The diaphragm moves because of the fluid pressure. A transduction component is also a part of the pressure transducer. This transduction component converts the diaphragm’s measured deflection into an electrical output signal.
According to the pressure change, this signal will either get stronger or weaker. Consequently, it is essential to calibrate the device to ensure the pressure falls within the acceptable range.
A power source is necessary for pressure transducers to generate electrical signals. Typically, the signal is either 0-10 V DC or 4-20 mA. Moreover, specific systems might mix DC and AC power. A common industry standard is the 4-20 mA signal. While DC voltage output utilizes a 3-wire design, it employs a 2-wire configuration. The 4-20 mA signal is less susceptible to interference than a DC transmission, and you can use it over long distances.
It’s essential to distinguish between a pressure transducer and a pressure switch. An electrical contact is opened by a pressure switch when a predetermined fluid pressure is attained. To understand more about them, read our technical page on pressure switches
Take away
Despite a slight decline, the pressure transducer industry is expected to boom by the end of 2027 because it has prepared for the deadly Covid-19 epidemic. When one considers just a few of the numerous advancements that occurred over the pandemic course, this sector, which serves as the foundation of the medical industry, has much to offer other sectors.
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