More about Pressure Transducers

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Pressure Transducers convert pressure of all types into analog electrical signals for easy measurement. Pressure transducers are used for tasks such as leak detection, air quality monitoring, environmental enclosures, dust collecting systems, or anywhere important gauge pressure measurements are required. The appearance is fairly standard: a tube-like or circular stainless steel body with a pipe connector on one side and a wire or cable on the other.

There are many different types of pressure transducers; the most common type is the strain-gage base transducer. This device works when a strain gage is linked to the transducer diaphragm then wired into a wheatstone bridge configuration. The diaphragm is a rounded device made of semi-flexible material that functions like a boundary between compartments. Depending on the pressure, the diaphragm moves up in one compartment or down in the other. A wheatstone bridge configuration is a circuitry network designed to measure variations in pressure. When working with this device, it is essential not to overload the circuitry. This can be carefully monitored through length and type of wire. When pressure is applied to this type of transducer, the diaphragm is displaced, strain is put on the gages, and that strain causes an analog electrical signal. The device typically undergoes an anodizing process for preservation purposes. It can also be made of molded and cast urethane products for the same reason.

Though there are various types of pressure transducers, one of the most important is the special purpose transducer. These devices are designed for use in extreme temperatures or extreme environments. They are available without wire outputs. They make use of digital communications output. One new type of special purpose pressure transducer is a subminiature differential pressure transducer, which has perfected double-sided overload protection through the use of a metal stop which was created with electroplating. Research indicates this device can sustain higher pressure.