Setra Blog

Proof pressure and burst pressure are critical specifications for pressure sensors and other pressure-related devices, but they serve different purposes.

Typically, there are many different pressure specifications indicated on a pressure transducer data sheet. Interestingly enough, two of the most important pressure specifications are often easily overlooked; proof and burst pressure. Selecting a pressure transducer without noticing these pressure ranges is one of the top reasons for transducer failure. Both pressure specifications are considered to act as an upper limit for the device’s operating range. So, what exactly is the difference between proof and burst pressure?

Absolute pressure is measured relative to a full vacuum (0 PSIA = 14.7 PSIV).  The electrical output of an absolute pressure transducer is 0 VDC at 0 PSIA and full scale output (typically 5 VDC) at full scale pressure (in PSIA).  PSIA (pounds per square inch absolute) is a unit of pressure measured relative to a full vacuum.  A vacuum can refer to any pressure between 0 PSIA and 14.7 PSIA.

Low pressure measurements are required in various applications such as air flow, static duct and cleanroom pressures in HVAC and energy management systems (EMS).  Other applications include use in medical instrumentation, environmental pollution control, boil combustion efficiency and a wide variety of research and development requirements.  Although the focus will center mainly on air flow and pressure, the same principles

Selecting the correct accuracy for your sensing application is only half the challenge; being able to maintain that level of accuracy over time is equally important. To clarify on what we mean by the accuracy, we define it as the maximum difference between the actual value and the sensor’s output (in terms of %FS).  Maintaining a sensor’s accuracy is difficult. Users face the issue of a sensor going out of tolerance and are unaware of the root causes. Depending on the level of accuracy required by the application, the consequences of imprecise accuracy can vary. For example, an isolation room requires a high level of accuracy to protect both the patients’ and medical professionals’ health and safety. If a room pressure monitor provided doctors and nurses with an incorrect sensor output, they can make incorrect judgments such as walking into a improperly labeled space. Based off of the inaccurate sensor output, doctors and nurses can also accidently release harmful contaminants into the rest of the hospital without a proper alarm notification.

As we have talked about in our Importance of Measuring Humidity post, accurate humidity measurement is crucial.  Building owners must be sure to maintain and monitor humidity levels for occupants' comfort and safety. Improper humidity measurement can put a building at risk for mold and other airborne pathogens which can lead to sick building syndrome.

There are three types of mounts for humidity sensors; wall mount, duct mount or outdoor air. In order to operate correctly with a long life expectancy, it is vital that the sensor is properly mounted and placed. Proper mounting requires careful consideration to ensure the sensor meets your needs. Here is a guide on how to place three types of humidity sensors:

https://www.setra.com/products/pressure/model-asl-high-accuracy-pressure-transducerWith the growing requirements of building maintenance, HVAC systems are no longer able to meet demand operating alone. Whether it is a commercial, retail or industrial building, pressure sensors play a significant role in monitoring the building for occupants’ safety and comfort. When integrated with pressure technology, HVAC systems can operate at optimum levels as well as improve building maintenance. Three ways this can be done are:

After selecting your pressure transducer, it is now time to select a power supply. It is important to select the proper power supply to ensure all components are functioning properly and recording accurate data. 

Like we mentioned in our previous post, capacitance is used everywhere. Capacitance affects your day-to-day living without you even realizing it. It is difficult nowadays to find an application/industry that functions without, or is not impacted by, capacitance pressure transducers. When compared to other types of pressure sensors, capacitance pressure transducers have earned a reputation of high accuracy and long term stability, thus making it the primary choice for many of these applications:

When selecting an absolute, gauge or differential pressure sensor, the lines between absolute and gauge can be blurred. There are many differences between the two regarding performance and application. Therefore, it is essential to determine whether you need a gauge or absolute reference for measuring pressure. Like selecting a pressure range, it is important to select the correct pressure measurement to avoid errors in your measurement, especially when requiring a low range device.

IP Ratings are used to define levels of sealing effectiveness and degrees of protection against substances in electrical enclosures. Ratings are defined by the international standard EN 60529 (British BS EN 60529:1992, European IEC 60509:1989).