Setra Blog

Converting mA to voltage is common in HVAC when working with pressure transducers. Terminology to keep in mind includes:

• 1 mA = 0.001 AMP (short for amperes)
• Amps are referred to as CURRENT
• Resistor values are in OHMS (Ω is the symbol for ohms)
• VOLTAGE is the result of passing amps through a resistor

A variety of pressure sensor designs are available today. Two of the most common sensor types are MEMS and capacitive sensors.

HVAC/R systems can be designed to perform a variety of functions. Examples of these functions include improving comfort, managing maintenance within a building, minimizing mold, and monitoring pressure in a critical space. HVAC/R encompasses many applications, including:

HVAC and refrigeration systems represent between a quarter and a third of total electricity consumption in an average commercial building. Chillers are responsible for over 40% of that demand, making up between 10-12% of a building’s total electricity usage and presenting an opportunity for cost savings. So why are HVAC chillers rarely optimized for efficiency?

As of July 22, the RoHS exemption for industrial monitoring and control instruments will end. Non- compliant product cannot be CE marked and sold in the European Union or to customers who otherwise require the CE mark.

Thank you to all who visited us at Booth C1452 in the Building Automation and Controls section of the AHR Expo this year in Las Vegas, Nevada! We enjoyed seeing both new and familar faces! The world's largest HVACR event was anything but boring and we think the 60,000 attendees would have to agree.

1. Pressure

The first and most important consideration is pressure. A number of questions must be answered to ensure the correct transducer is selected. What is the pressure range that the transducer will measure? What is the maximum pressure the transducer will encounter? What is the potential for over pressure in the system?

Unidirectional Pressure Transducers

Unidirectional pressure transducers measure between zero and a positive pressure. The diaphragm of the sensor should only move in one direction and will produce a positive voltage or milliamp output.

Pressure transducers today are more rugged and reliable than ever. Made of stainless steel construction, they provide abundant overpressure protection, improved total error band, and offer negligible orientation and vibration effects. They are ideal for long-term use even in harsh environments of extreme temperature, humidity, and vibration.

The accuracy of differential pressure transducers has greatly improved to provide better solutions for demanding applications. This article discusses why accuracy is an important consideration when selecting a pressure transducer for low-differential, critical pressure applications.