Pressure transducers are available with several different types of sensors and output. However, before looking at the various aspects, perhaps a basic question should be answered. Exactly what is a pressure transducer?

In its most basic terms, a pressure transducer measures the pressure exerted on its sensing mechanism and change it to an electrical signal. They are most commonly used to calibrate the pressure that a gas or liquid exerts under variable conditions. They are widely used in aeronautics and oceanographic vehicle manufacture. Various types are made with special conditions in mind, such as measuring pressure exerted in a vacuum or when the gas or liquid is exposed to an extreme range of temperatures. The measurements are then recorded onto data loggers.

A strain gage transducer is the most widely used type. As one might infer from its name, strain (in the form of pressure) is applied to gages. This will cause an analog signal to be transmitted that relates to the pressure exerted.

The output can take three different forms. Millivolt output transducers are among the least expensive type. They are most useful when the distances involved are short and the environment does not feature a lot of electrical noise. A consistent power supply is necessary for the most accurate readings.

Voltage transducers are not as sensitive to external elements such as electrical noise. They also do not require the same degree of consistent power supply. The last type is a 4-20 mA output. This is often referred to as a pressure transmitter. They are vital if lead wires must be run a great distance, as they can handle leads of 1,000 feet or more. Power fluctuations and electrical noise are also not of major importance to them.

Pressure transducers are classified based on several different factors. One of these is the type of pressure and therefore the type of pressure sensor used. Absolute pressure sensors are used to perform measurements at, as the name implies, absolute vacuum conditions. Gauge pressure sensors calculate relative pressure. A vacuum pressure sensor is similar to an absolute pressure sensor except that it can measure pressure that is actually less than the atmospheric pressure compared to a known pressure. A differential pressure sensor calculates the change between multiple pressures as they are input. And finally, a sealed pressure sensor works much the same as a gauge sensor except that it is pre-calibrated to compare pressure as it relates to standard pressure at sea level.

Pressure transducers are also classified into two basic categories. The first are the force collectors, which use a bellows, piston, or diaphragm. The second category is basically all transducers that are not force collectors, and encompasses thermal and resonant transducers. Strain gage transducers fall in the category of force collectors, as are capacitive transducers commonly used to take readings under low pressures. Piezoelectric transducers, which are often used to test combustion in automobile engines, are also force collectors. The resonant and thermal transducers check the density of a test gas while under pressure, and are often used to take multiple readings over an extended length of time.

Anyone asking, “What is a Pressure Transducer?” may also wonder about some of their applications. They are important tools to manufacturers of aircraft, automobiles, weather instruments, and satellites. From rockets to weather balloons, pressure transducers are used to measure the effects of changes in air pressure. They are also used to help submarines measure depth. In addition, several industries use them to test pressurized systems for leaks.

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