Understand Bourdon Tube Pressure Gauge

What is a bourdon tube pressure gauge?

A Bourdon tube pressure gauge is a type of mechanical pressure gauge that uses the deformation of a curved, semi-circular tube to measure pressure. The Bourdon tube is made of a flexible, high-strength material such as brass or bronze. When pressure is applied to the tube, it tends to straighten out, causing the other end of the tube to move. This movement is transmitted through a linkage to a pointer on a dial, which indicates the pressure reading. Bourdon tube pressure gauges are widely used in industrial and process control applications due to their high accuracy and long life. They are available in a wide range of sizes and pressure ranges, and can be used to measure both positive and negative pressures.

Advantages and disadvantages of a bourdon tube pressure gauge

Advantages of a Bourdon pressure gauge:

Wide range of sizes: Bourdon gauges are available in a wide range of sizes, from small diameter gauges for low pressure applications to large diameter gauges for high pressure applications.

High accuracy: Bourdon gauges are generally highly accurate, with an accuracy of +/- 1% or better.

Long life: Bourdon gauges have a long life and are resistant to wear and tear, which makes them suitable for use in harsh environments.

Easy to read: The large, easy-to-read dial on a Bourdon gauge makes it easy to take accurate readings.

Disadvantages of a Bourdon pressure gauge:

Limited pressure range: Bourdon gauges are typically only accurate over a limited pressure range, typically from 0 to 60% of full scale.

Vulnerable to overpressure: Bourdon gauges are vulnerable to damage from overpressure, and may need to be protected with a relief valve or other overpressure protection device.

Sensitive to vibration: Bourdon gauges can be sensitive to vibration, which can affect their accuracy.

Limited temperature range: Bourdon gauges are generally not suitable for use in extreme temperature conditions.