Pressure gauges are a standard tool used in various industries for various applications. However, while analog pressure gauges are reliable instruments, digital gauges are increasingly popular. This raises the question: is analog or digital the best pressure gauge for your company?
The Role of Pressure Gauge
A pressure gauge is a tool that provides a direct way of measuring gas and liquid pressure. The analog pressure gauge has been around for over 150 years, and while it has changed over time, the basic mechanics have not. Gauges verify that no leaks or pressure variations could damage the hydraulic system’s operation. Without pressure gauges, fluid power systems would be both unpredictable and unreliable.
Details of an Analog Pressure Gauge
Analog pressure gauges are also called dial gauges. An analog gauge has a needle that directly reacts to changes by pointing to the number on the scale. The movement of the needle translates to variations in temperature or flow.
Analog pressure gauges are inexpensive, do not require a power source, and are inexpensive. They do have a lot of internal moving parts.
Because analog gauges are mechanical, they are more easily susceptible to damage from lab conditions, especially in the field. Analog pressure gauges are prone to mechanical vibration; when used in applications with pressure pulsation, the parts can wear out quickly. Thus, causing inaccurate readings. They are sensitive to overpressure, extreme temperatures, corrosion, and clogging, so they need to be calibrated often.
Specifics Digital Pressure Gauges
Digital pressure gauges use transducers to display pressure readings on a digital indicator. They are powered by battery, loop, or solar power and give rapid results.
Digital gauges’ design differs from analog in that they can withstand more abuse and extreme temperatures. In addition, they are more durable and resistant to vibration than its counterpart. However, since they require a power source, it may not be the best choice if you don’t need it often.
The readability is significantly more precise on digital and never requires interpretation, like needle reading on analog. It is expected that we often misread analog gauges because of parallax errors.
Digital pressure gauges can stay calibrated for more extended periods. It is done with software when calibrated, so the accuracy is more precise. When comparing pricing, digital is more expensive as they use microprocessors, more expensive equipment, and customization options. Digital gauges can be customized to allow pressure to be displayed in torque or force units for applications that require it.
Still Unsure?
The choice of which type of gauge will be best will come down to the requirements of your application. There will always be a need for analog and digital, so one will remain relevant. If you are still deciding on the best choice, contact the SRP control systems Ltd engineering team. They work with the top product manufacturers and understand calibration. There is no wrong choice regarding analog or digital pressure gauges. It is about finding the best match for your requirements.
