Air pressure was first measured all the way back in 1643: when the barometer was invented. Most middle schoolers learn about barometers and how they are a simple way to measure air pressure. A tube is half filled with water and a narrow spout is connected to the main tube. As the pressure changes, the water in the spout will rise and sink. This is a great scientific experiment that proved air has weight -- but it’s not that practical for modern day applications.
Over time, air pressure-measuring devices have become increasingly complex and advanced. Air pressure is the force exerted on a surface or object from the air above it as gravity pulls it down. Measuring air pressure is critical for air heating and cooling systems, air filtration systems, air compression systems, and many other applications. One device that is widely used in many applications across industries is a pressure transducer. Many systems rely on pressure transducers to keep their operations running.
Taking careful pressure measurements will help ensure that the system runs smoothly. The correct pressure transducer will allow the system to operate safely. Here are a couple of the most important characteristics to consider when choosing a pressure transducer to measure air pressure in your system.
Pressure Range
One of the first aspects to consider is the range your system needs to measure. The pressure transducer needs to be able to measure the maximum and minimum pressure that your system experiences. There may be some guesswork involved if your team has never built a system similar to the one you are working on. Pressure transducer manufacturers can help guide you through the process to find a solution that works for your system.
Frequency of Readings
Some pressure transducers may only need to read air pressure every few minutes, while other pressure transducers will read the air pressure multiple times each second. The frequency largely depends on the end application of your system. Critical applications need to be constantly measured, while non-critical applications do need need that level of frequency.
- What is a pressure transducer?
- How do pressure transducers work?
- Pressure sensor vs transducer
- Custom pressure transducers
- Pressure transducers FAQ
- Selecting a pressure sensor
- How to specify
- Installing a pressure transducer
- Troubleshooting
- Selecing an amplifier
- Selecing a controller
- Selecing a data logger