Choosing the correct pressure gauge is critical for ensuring the accuracy of your measurements. But with so many different pressure gauges on the market, how do you know which is suitable for your application? Here, we’ll help you understand the critical differences between liquid-filled and dry pressure gauges so that you can make the best decision for your business.
Liquid-Filled Pressure Gauge
A liquid-filled pressure gauge is filled with a liquid, such as silicon or glycerine, to improve its performance in unideal conditions. However, the liquid can be observed as the pressure gauge is not filled fully, creating an air bubble at the upper part of the gauge.
Advantages
Liquid-filled pressure gauges have several advantages over their dry counterparts.
- They are less likely to be affected by vibration, making them ideal for use in applications where vibration is a problem.
- They are less likely to be affected by changes in temperature, making them suitable for use in applications where temperature changes are a problem.
- They are more accurate than dry pressure gauges, making them ideal for use in applications where accuracy is critical.
Disadvantages
Despite the advantages of liquid-filled pressure gauges, some disadvantages should be considered.
- They are more expensive than dry pressure gauges. Secondly, they are more challenging to install and maintain.
- They are more likely to leak, making them less suitable for use in applications where the leakage is a problem.
Liquid-filled pressure gauges are most commonly used in applications where accuracy is critical, such as in the medical and scientific fields. However, they are also widely used in industrial applications where vibration and temperature changes are problematic.
Why Select a Liquid-Filled Pressure Gauge?
Liquid-filled gauges measure high-stress pressure points like fast and frequent loads, pressure peaks, and mechanical vibrations. Liquid-filled gauges are usually filled with glycerin only or a combination of glycerin and water. Therefore, specific glycerine gauges are needed depending on the different conditions you require the gauge for.
Applications
Standard Liquid Pressure Gauges are 100% filled (99.7% min.) glycerine, which starts to get sticky at +17 degrees C. As the temperature decreases, the slimier the glycerine becomes, causing the pointer to move slowly to the correct position. At -5 degrees C, the gauge would stop operating entirely. Places with an even temperature that doesn’t fluctuate often would be the perfect home for a standard gauge.
Liquid-filled gauges with two parts glycerine with 1 part water can be used in temperatures as low as -46 degrees C. These types of gauges are ideal for locations that have icy circumstances. For example, regions with harsher winter temperatures may consider this type of gauge.
Most liquid-filled gauges are airtight, allowing them to perform in corrosive environments and resist moisture intrusion and icing.
Environmental Benefit
Glycerine-filled gauges are environmentally friendly by being non-hazardous to water, non-toxic and the glycerine is entirely biodegradable.
What is a Dry Pressure Gauge?
Dry gauges are primarily used for industrial machinery, including air compressors, ideal for environments where mechanical vibration is not a concern and where there is little to no moisture. However, low enough temperatures can cause moisture to convert to ice, and that can cause the gauge to fail.
Advantages
Dry pressure gauges have some advantages over their liquid counterparts.
- Firstly, they are less expensive than liquid pressure gauges.
- Finally, they are less likely to leak, making them more suitable for use in applications where the leakage is a problem.
Disadvantages
Despite the advantages of dry pressure gauges, some disadvantages should be considered.
- Firstly, they are less accurate than liquid pressure gauges.
- Secondly, they are more likely to be affected by changes in temperature, making them less suitable for use in applications where temperature changes are a problem.
- Finally, they are more likely to be affected by vibration, making them less ideal for use in applications where vibration is a problem.
Dry pressure gauges are most commonly used in industrial applications where accuracy is not as critical as in the medical and scientific fields. However, they are also widely used in applications where temperature changes are not a problem.
Why Select a Dry Gauge?
Dry gauges are primarily used for industrial machinery, including air compressors, ideal for environments where mechanical vibrations are not a concern and where there is little to no moisture.
Although dry gauges are typically cheaper than liquid-filled gauges, using them in incorrect applications could cost you more money in the long run. Liquid-filled gauges can absorb vibration and pressure spikes, reducing the possibility of poor performance or failure. A low failure rate means less money spent purchasing replacements.
Both liquid and dry pressure gauges are available in equal pressure ranges, but in some cases, liquid pressure gauges may be available in a higher range. Selecting the correct gauge of the hop is the key to saving you money.
Simply put, it’s always good to be aware of the environment your meter is required in to ensure you select the right one. It is also good to keep in mind the benefits and disadvantages of each gauge. Each operation is different and may require particular calibers.
Conclusion
Your type of pressure gauge should be based on your business’s particular application and needs. For example, a liquid pressure gauge may be the best choice if accuracy is critical. On the other hand, a dry pressure gauge may be the better option if cost is a concern. And if resistance to shock and vibration is essential, either type of pressure gauge may be a good choice.
If you still need to decide which kind of pressure gauge is right for your business, contact Instruthink. We can help you select the best pressure gauge for your particular application.
