A low pressure transducer, which may also be referred to as a low pressure transmitter, is used to convert the changes in pressure in a specific system or environment into an electronic signal. This can be an analog signal, which will display the reading on an LED or another type of readout as determined through the system.
A low pressure transducer is designed to provide high levels of accuracy with the detection of pressure changes in low pressure usage. There are also very low pressure transducer models, also called ultra-low pressure transmitters that are used in liquid and gas applications in all types of industrial applications.
Important Factors
There is a broad range of different designs of pressure transducers. The most common for most applications is called a strain-gauge. In these types of transducers, the change in the pressure on a diaphragm in the transducer applies strain against the gauge. The result is that this strain creates an electrical resistance to the force, which is translated into an electronic readout.
Regardless of the specific use of the low pressure transducer there are some essential factors to consider before choosing a model. These include:
* Corrosion resistance – for use in liquids as well as gases it is essential to ensure the pressure transducer is corrosion resistant based on what will come into contact with all parts of the system.
* Volumetric Displacement – with low pressure systems, particularly ultra-low, the volumetric displacement needs to be very low. Without using the right system, it is easy for the transducer to be over-pressured in the system. When this occurs the transducer typically will not have a correct zero reading, but rather read higher, resulting in inaccurate results and readings.
* Ease of repair or replacement – there are several models that are designed for use in the field. These designs will provide the opportunity and option to repair and replace potentially damaged parts, such as diaphragms, very quickly and easily.
It will also be important to check the wiring of the low pressure transducer. Some designs offer only a two-wire configuration or a four wire. Some models and designs offer the option of either configurations.
The digital display may also be an optional consideration when choosing a low pressure transducer. There are various types of displays available out there, with liquid crystal local displays being some of the most common.