Download Five Basic Types of Pressure Sensors

Five Basic Types of Pressure Sensors
Gauge Pressure Sensors – with gauge sensors, pressure readings are referenced to the
atmosphere, i.e. zero output is at atmospheric pressure. You use this type of sensor when
you need to measure both vacuum (negative output) and pressure (positive output.)
Gauge pressure is measured in pounds per square inch gauge.
Vacuum Pressure Sensors – A vacuum sensor output is zero at atmospheric pressure, like
the gauge sensor, but the output increases as vacuum increases. You calibrate vacuum
sensors so their output becomes more positive as the pressure becomes more negative.
Vacuum means a space empty of matter; a space in which the pressure is significantly
lower than atmospheric pressure. Matter is something that occupies space.
Differential Pressure Sensors – This type of sensor has two pressure ports, and senses the
difference in pressure between the two ports. You can use differential pressure sensors to
measure the pressure of liquid or gasses.
Absolute Pressure Sensors – The reference for this type of sensor is full vacuum. That is,
the output is zero at full vacuum. No that there is no polarity change when the input
pressure changes from vacuum to pressure above atmosphere.
Barometric Pressure Sensors – Barometric Pressure Sensors are absolute Pressure sensors
with a limited range. Usually, the output of these sensors is expressed as “inches of
Mercury (Hg),” and the output ranges are 16-32 in. HgA or 26-32in HgA with zero
output at the low. A standard “absolute” sensor may be used over 0-30 in HgA range, but
the limited range offers more resolution, especially with a voltage output for the typically
small barometric pressure changes. You may use several different type of pressure
transducers in a typical engine test stand.
Reference: www.sensotec.com