Pressure Sensors Terminologies

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W Z

Our blog on “Pressure Sensors Terminologies.” In this article, we will explore and explain the key terms and concepts related to pressure sensors. Pressure sensors are vital in industries, measuring pressure in liquids, gases, and other mediums.

Understanding their terminology is crucial for selecting, using, and interpreting specifications. This blog provides insights into pressure sensor terminology for professionals and curious individuals.

Let’s dive in!

A

Ambient Humidity:

Ambient humidity refers to surrounding moisture where a pressure sensor is located. It is important to consider because high humidity can affect the performance and accuracy of the sensor. Moisture can condense on the sensor or affect its electrical components, leading to measurement errors or even damage.

Ambient Temperature:

Ambient temperature is the surrounding environment temperature for a pressure sensor. It is a critical parameter to consider as temperature variations can impact the sensor’s performance. Extreme temperatures impact pressure sensor accuracy and reliability. Ensure the sensor operates within a specified temperature range for precise readings.

Analog Output:

Analog output refers to the type of output signal produced by a pressure sensor to represent the measured pressure. It is in the form of a continuous voltage or current signal that varies with the applied pressure. Analog output provides smooth and continuous pressure representation. Ideal for precise real-time monitoring and control.

Applied Fluid:

Applied fluid refers to the type of fluid or medium that a pressure sensor is designed to measure. Different pressure sensors are calibrated and constructed to be compatible with certain fluids, such as air, water, oil, or gas. Select compatible pressure sensors for accurate measurements and prevention of damage from the fluid.

Approval (Certifications):

Approval ensures the quality, performance, and safety of pressure sensors. Certifications like CE and UL confirm compliance with standards. Rigorous testing and specific requirements guarantee user confidence.

B

Burst Pressure:

Burst pressure is the greatest limit for sensor durability. It prevents permanent damage or failure. It represents the upper limit beyond which the sensor may rupture or become impaired. Consider burst pressure rating when selecting a sensor. Ensures handling of pressure spikes and overloads. Provides reliability and safety.

C

Cable (type, length):

The cable of a pressure sensor refers to the electrical cable used to connect the sensor to other devices or systems. The type of cable can vary based on factors such as insulation material, shielding, and flexibility. The length of the cable is the distance between the sensor and the connected device or system. Choose the proper cable type and length for sensor connections. Ensures electrical connections and signal integrity.

Calibration:

Calibration is the process of adjusting and setting a pressure sensor to ensure its accuracy and reliability. During calibration, the sensor’s output is compared to a known reference or standard to determine any deviations or errors. Correct deviations through internal adjustments or output signal changes. Regular calibration maintains accuracy and consistency.

Compensated Temperature Range:

The compensated temperature range ensures accurate performance after temperature compensation. Temperature compensation adjusts for temperature effects on measurements. The range ensures accurate and reliable pressure readings despite temperature variations.

Connector Type:

The connector type of pressure sensor is the specific interface for electrical connection. Connector types include threaded, push-in, and standards like DIN, M12, or USB. Selecting the right type ensures compatibility and secure connections. It facilitates easy installation and integration.

Control Output:

The control output is the signal from a pressure sensor for controlling other devices. It acts as feedback in a control loop. It enables automated adjustments based on pressure. The output can be voltage, current, or digital. It activates actuators or valves to maintain desired pressure levels.

Current Consumption:

Current consumption refers to the amount of electrical current drawn by a pressure sensor during its operation. It represents the power need of the sensor and is specified in units such as milliamperes (mA). Monitoring the current consumption is essential to ensure that the power supply can provide enough current to the sensor. It also helps assess the energy efficiency of the sensor and allows for proper power management in the system design.

D

Display Accuracy:

Display accuracy refers to the level of precision and correctness with which a pressure sensor’s output is displayed. It indicates how the displayed pressure value aligns with the actual measured pressure. Display accuracy is expressed as a percentage of the full-scale range or as a specific value in the pressure unit. Higher display accuracy improves the reliability of pressure readings. It represents the true pressure value. It enhances the usability and trustworthiness of the sensor.

Display and Set Pressure Range:

The display and set pressure range is the range shown on the sensor’s display. It is also adjustable for setting purposes. The display range indicates the range within which the sensor can display the measured pressure. The set pressure range specifies the range within which the user can adjust or set the desired pressure values. Selecting a suitable display and set pressure range is crucial. It meets the application’s requirements. It ensures accurate monitoring and control of pressure.

Display Digit:

Display digit refers to the number of digits or decimal places shown on the display of a pressure sensor. It indicates the level of precision with which the pressure value is displayed. A higher number of display digits allows for more precise and detailed pressure readings. A sensor with three display digits shows up to 999 units. A sensor with four display digits shows up to 9999 units. The number of display digits impacts the resolution and readability of the pressure reading on the sensor’s display.

Display Method:

The display method refers to the way in which the measured pressure is presented on the display of a pressure sensor. It can be in the form of a digital numerical display, an analog gauge, or even a graphical representation. Digital numerical displays show pressure as numeric digits. Analog gauges use a physical needle or pointer. The display method affects visual representation. It can be chosen based on preference or requirements.

E

Electrical Compatibility:

Electrical compatibility ensures suitability for integration. It aligns with device requirements. It includes voltage levels, signal types, and protocols. It enables seamless and reliable connections. The sensor interacts with other components.

Electrical Connection (type, location):

The electrical connection is the physical link between the sensor and the devices. Connection type determines the interface (e.g., wire leads, connectors). Connection location indicates the connection points on the sensor. It allows secure and proper connection with cables or connectors.

Excitation:

Excitation powers a pressure sensor’s internal circuitry. It enables pressure measurement. Excitation voltage or current energizes the sensor. It creates the necessary electrical field or response. Signals can come from an external supply or sensor. Correct excitation is crucial for proper operation and accuracy.

H

Hysteresis:

Hysteresis occurs in pressure sensors. Output readings differ for the same pressure value. It depends on the pressure direction (increase or decrease). Hysteresis arises from the sensor’s internal properties. It causes response lag. It introduces delays to pressure changes. It can lead to discrepancies in displayed or recorded values. Minimizing hysteresis is important to improve the accuracy and reliability of pressure measurements.

Hysteresis Error:

Hysteresis error is the difference in output readings. It occurs for the same pressure value. It depends on the pressure direction. It represents the deviation or inconsistency in the sensor’s output due to hysteresis. Hysteresis error impacts accuracy and repeatability. It is an important parameter to consider. Minimizing hysteresis errors ensures more precise and reliable pressure readings.

I

Insulation Resistance:

Insulation resistance measures electrical current leakage. It occurs between sensor circuits and body/grounded components. It indicates the effectiveness of the sensor’s insulation and isolation properties. High insulation resistance is desirable. It ensures electrical safety. It prevents current leakage. It minimizes the risk of shorts or interference.

L

Linearity Error:

Linearity error is the largest deviation from a straight line. It occurs in the pressure sensor’s output. It happens when input pressure varies. It is within the specified range. It indicates the level of non-linearity in the sensor’s response to pressure. Linearity error causes inaccuracies in pressure measurements. It is prominent at the extreme ends of the range. A lower linearity error indicates a more linear relationship. It signifies predictability between applied pressure and sensor output.

M

Material (of the sensor):

The material of a pressure sensor refers to the substances used in its construction. Sensor material choice is crucial. It determines compatibility with fluids. It resists corrosion and ensures durability. Common materials: stainless steel, ceramic, silicon, and alloys. Appropriate material selection ensures environmental suitability. It prevents interference from fluid or external factors.

Maximum Pressure Range:

Most pressure range refers to the highest pressure value that a pressure sensor is designed to measure. The pressure range represents the upper limit for reliable measurements. Exceeding range causes inaccuracies, sensor damage, or failure. Selecting a suitable range ensures the sensor withstands and measures intended pressure levels.

Media Compatibility:

Media compatibility is important. It relates to the sensor’s materials and construction. Different fluids have varied properties. They can affect performance or cause damage. Compatibility prevents corrosion, degradation, or contamination. It maintains accurate and reliable pressure measurements.

Minimum Display Interval:

The small display interval refers to the smallest pressure increment that can be displayed by a pressure sensor. It represents the smallest change in pressure that can be distinguished on the sensor’s display. A smaller small display interval allows for finer resolution and more precise readings. Consider the smallest display interval. It depends on desired accuracy and pressure range. It ensures the detection and display of small pressure changes.

Mounting Options:

Mounting options are methods for sensor installation. They include options such as threaded connections, flanges, brackets, or specific mounting hardware. The choice depends on application, space, and sensor design. Proper mounting ensures secure attachment. It enables accurate pressure measurements. It minimizes mechanical or positional errors.

N

NPN Open Collector:

NPN open collector is a type of output configuration used in pressure sensors. It refers to the connection of the sensor’s output to an NPN (negative-positive-negative) transistor. In this configuration, the sensor’s output can sink current when activated. NPN open collector outputs connect to external devices. They accept sinking current signals. Examples: PLCs or relays.

O

Operating Temperature Range:

The operating temperature range determines the sensor’s accurate operation. It specifies small and most temperatures. Operating outside range causes inaccuracies, damage, or failure. Select sensor with a suitable temperature range for the application. It ensures proper functionality and accuracy.

Output Signal:

Output signal refers to the type of electrical signal generated by a pressure sensor to state the measured pressure. It can be in the form of voltage, current, or frequency, depending on the sensor’s design. The output signal provides pressure level information. It is utilized by connected devices. It enables processing, monitoring, or control.

Overpressure Limit:

The overpressure limit is the most pressure sensor can withstand. It avoids permanent damage or performance compromise. It represents the upper limit beyond which the sensor may fail or provide inaccurate readings. Considering the overpressure limit ensures reliability. It prevents failures or safety hazards. It applies to applications with pressure spikes or overloads.

P

PNP Open Collector:

PNP open collector is a type of output configuration used in pressure sensors. It refers to the connection of the sensor’s output to a PNP (positive-negative-positive) transistor. In this configuration, the sensor’s output can source current when activated. PNP open collector outputs connect to external devices. They accept sourcing current signals. Examples: microcontrollers or PLCs.

Power Supply:

Power supply refers to the electrical power source required to operate a pressure sensor. It provides the necessary energy for the sensor’s internal circuitry to function. The power supply can be provided by a variety of sources, including batteries, AC power outlets, or dedicated power supplies. Ensure the power supply meets the sensor’s requirements. It ensures proper operation and accurate measurements.

Pressure Port Type:

Pressure port type refers to the specific type of port or connection through which the pressure is applied to a pressure sensor. It can vary depending on the sensor’s design and intended application. Common pressure port types include threaded ports, flanged ports, or hose connections. Selecting the appropriate pressure port type is crucial. It ensures proper sealing and reliability. It enables reliable pressure transmission. It ensures compatibility with the application’s pressure source or system.

Pressure Sensitivity:

Pressure sensitivity is a change in the output signal. It corresponds to a unit change in applied pressure. It indicates how responsive the sensor is to pressure variations. A higher pressure sensitivity means that a small change in pressure will result in a larger change in the sensor’s output signal. Pressure sensitivity is crucial for precise measurement. It detects small pressure changes. It is important for such applications.

Pressure Unit:

Pressure unit refers to the specific unit of measurement used to express pressure readings. Common pressure units include Pascal (Pa), bar, pound per square inch (psi), or kilopascal (kPa). Selecting an appropriate pressure unit depends on standards, requirements, and compatibility. Converting to a standardized unit ensures consistency and accuracy. It allows interpretation across contexts and locations.

Protection (IP rating, for instance):

Protection is indicated by an IP rating. It safeguards against environmental factors, dust, and water ingress. IP ratings have two numbers: solid object protection and liquid protection. Example: IP67 means dust-tight and water immersion resistance. Protection rating ensures durability and reliability in challenging conditions.

R

Rated Pressure Range:

The rated pressure range is the designed range for accurate measurements. It specifies the small and most pressure values that the sensor can measure. Operating a pressure sensor beyond its rated pressure range may result in inaccurate readings or even damage to the sensor. Selecting the appropriate rated pressure range ensures sensor handles the intended pressure levels. It provides accurate measurements within the specified range.

Repeat Error:

Repeat error is the difference in output readings. It occurs for the same pressure value. It indicates consistency and reproducibility. Lower repeat error signifies higher repeatability. It provides similar output readings. Minimizing repeat errors is crucial. It ensures precise and reliable pressure measurements. It guarantees consistent and accurate results.

Repeatability Error:

Repeatability error is the difference in output readings. It occurs for the same pressure value. It indicates consistency and reproducibility. Lower repeatability error signifies higher repeatability. It provides similar output readings. Minimizing repeatability errors is crucial. It ensures precise and reliable pressure measurements. It guarantees consistent and accurate results.

Response Time:

Response time refers to the time taken by a pressure sensor to react and provide a stable output signal in response to a change in the applied pressure. It represents how the sensor can detect and report pressure variations. A faster response time is desirable for real-time monitoring or control. It is influenced by design and construction. It is affected by the pressure medium. Selecting the appropriate response time ensures timely and accurate measurements.

S

Sensor Type (Absolute, Gauge, Differential, Sealed Gauge):

Sensor type classifies pressure sensors. It considers reference points and measurement methods. Absolute pressure sensors measure pressure relative to a perfect vacuum. Gauge pressure sensors measure pressure relative to atmospheric pressure. Differential pressure sensors measure the difference between two pressures. Sealed gauge pressure sensors measure pressure relative to a fixed reference. Sensor type determines application and usage scenarios. It considers the specific pressure reference required.

Shock Resistance:

Shock resistance is the ability to withstand mechanical shocks. It ensures performance and prevents damage. It indicates robustness and durability. High shock resistance is crucial. It applies to environments with sudden shocks or vibrations. It is important in industrial or automotive applications. It maintains accurate measurements in challenging conditions.

Short Circuit Protection:

Short circuit protection prevents damage from electrical shorts. It safeguards the sensor’s internal components. It avoids excessive current flow and overheating. Protection measures include fuses, circuit breakers, or electronic safeguards. They interrupt the circuit during short-circuit events. Must be for the safe and reliable operation of the pressure sensor, minimizing the risk of electrical failures or hazards.

Span Setting:

The span setting adjusts the sensor’s output span. It matches desired pressure measurement. It allows customization of the sensor’s output scale within its rated pressure range. Adjusting span improves accuracy and precision. It optimizes sensors for specific applications. Span setting occurs during calibration or configuration. It ensures sensor output corresponds to desired pressure values. It meets the measurement needs of the system or process.

Storage Temperature Range:

Storage temperature range specifies safe storage temperatures. It avoids performance impact or damage. It includes small and largest temperatures. Operating outside range causes degradation, calibration loss, or damage. Adhering to recommended range ensures longevity and reliability. It applies during non-use or transportation.

T

Thermal Effect on Span:

The thermal effect on the span is the change in the output span or range of a pressure sensor due to variations in temperature. It represents the impact of temperature on the sensor’s ability to measure pressure across its specified range. Temperature-induced changes affect output span. It expands or contracts. It impacts the pressure-output relationship. Understanding and compensating for thermal effects is important. It ensures precise and consistent measurements. It applies in applications with significant temperature variations.

Thermal Effect on Zero:

The thermal effect on zero refers to the change in the output reading of a pressure sensor at zero pressure due to variations in temperature. It represents the influence of temperature on the sensor’s ability to maintain a true zero reference point. Temperature variations cause zero-level shifts. It leads to measurement errors. Accounting for the thermal effect on zero is necessary. It ensures accurate and reliable readings. It is crucial for small-pressure differentials or low-pressure ranges.

U

Unit Weight:

Unit weight refers to the weight of a pressure sensor itself, measured in standard units such as grams or ounces. Sensor mass represents its weight. It is important for installation, transportation, and load-bearing. Unit weight is important to assess the sensor’s physical characteristics and its impact on the system or structure. Mass helps determine mounting requirements. It influences structural support. It affects compatibility with weight-sensitive applications or equipment.

V

Vibration:

Vibration is oscillatory motion experienced by the sensor. It results from external sources. Machinery, equipment, or environmental conditions can cause it. Consider effects of vibration: measurement errors, instability, or failure. Mitigate vibration with isolation mounts or shock absorbers. Ensure accurate and reliable pressure measurements in vibration-prone environments.

Vibration Resistance:

Vibration resistance is the ability to withstand external vibrations. It ensures performance is unaffected. High resistance maintains accurate and stable measurements. It applies in high-vibration environments. Examples: industrial or automotive settings. Vibration-resistant sensors have robust construction, damping, or isolation mechanisms. They cut impact on measurements.

Z

Zero Balance:

Zero balance is an output reading with no pressure applied. It shows offset or deviation from true zero. It indicates the sensor’s ability to measure zero pressure. Zero balance error can occur due to tolerances or component variations. Minimizing errors ensures accurate and reliable measurements. It is crucial for small pressure differentials or low pressures. Calibration or change corrects zero balance errors. It maintains measurement accuracy.

Conclusion

The blog overview covered essential pressure sensor terminologies. Explored terms like ambient humidity, analog output, burst pressure, calibration, and more. Sheds light on meanings and significance. Relates to pressure sensing.

Understanding terms aids informed decisions in sensor selection. It ensures compatibility, accuracy, and reliability. Applicable to engineering, automation manufacturing, or technology enthusiasts. Knowledge serves as a valuable foundation. Stay tuned for more informative content on pressure sensors and related topics!