What is a pressure transducer, what does it measure, and how does it work?
Some people think that “pressure transducer” and “pressure transmitter” mean the same thing, but they don’t. All pressure transmitters have pressure transducers and some even have more than one. As a matter of fact, some have more than one.
What is a pressure transducer?
A pressure transducer converts the pressure on the sensor into an analog signal. Sometimes it does that from inside a transmitter. And that’s how it gets confusing.
Transducers work great for small spaces, and the output usually ranges between 0 and 100 millivolts. More often than not we use them with amplifiers. Pressure transducer sold without amplifiers are often called “bare” transducers.
However, in case we try to find a pressure transducer for an application, regarding the output you should study these three possibilities that are the most used.
Millivolt Pressure Transducers
The output is nominally around 30mV. The output value is directly proportional to the pressure that the received in the transducer.
Because the output signal is so low, the transducer should not be located in an electrically “noisy” areas. Another fact that must take it into account is the resistance of the cable. Long distances will affect accuracy.
Voltage Pressure Transducers
These transducers include an amplifier (signal conditioning) which provide a much higher output than a millivolt transducer. Normally 0-5Vdc or 0-10Vdc.
The main advantage for these transducers is that are not as susceptible to electrical noise as millivolt transducers and can, therefore, be used in more application areas.
4-20 mA Pressure Transducers
Also known as pressure transmitters. The current output 4-20mA is less affected by electrical noise and resistance in the signal wires, this output is the best to be used when the signal must be transmitted “long” distances.
We know that there are many things to know before choosing a pressure transducer for your application, but you don’t have to be worried, contact us and we will quote you the right device for your application.
LEAVE YOUR COMMENTS