The Basics of Pressure Transmitters – How to Select the Right One
Pressure transmitters are a vital component of any industrial process control system. They are used to measure and monitor the pressure of liquids or gases in a variety of applications, from oil and gas production, to process control.
With so many pressure transmitters on the market, it can be difficult to know which is right for your needs. This article will help you understand the basics of pressure transmitters and how to select the right one for your needs.
We will discuss the various types of pressure transmitters available, their features and benefits, and provide some tips on how to choose the best one for your application. With the right information, you can make an informed decision and get the most out of your pressure transmitter.
What are pressure transmitters?
A pressure transmitter is a device that measures and transmits the pressure of a fluid (liquid or gas) to a control system. Pressure transmitters are typically used in industrial processes like oil and gas production, refining, chemical processing, power generation, and more.
They are used to monitor and control the pressure in the system, keeping it within the desired range, and can also be used to measure the flow of the fluid. Pressure transmitters are typically installed in areas where a high-pressure process or flow is occurring. They are housed in a pressure-resistant casing that is designed to protect the internal components. T
he casing also allows the pressure transmitter to be installed in hostile environments such as high temperatures, corrosive substances, and more. The pressure transmitter is connected to the process either through an existing pipe or via a special connection port.
The pressure transmitter uses pressure differentials (the difference in pressure between the process and the environment) to create an electrical signal that is measured and transmitted via an electrical conductor. This can be an analogue or digital signal, using either a wired or wireless connection.
Types of pressure transmitters
There are three main types of pressure transmitters: differential pressure transmitters, absolute pressure transmitters, and gauge pressure transmitters.
1-Differential pressure transmitters are used to measure the difference in pressure between two points. They are often used to measure the difference in pressure between a process and the atmosphere (i.e. the difference between the inside and outside of a pipe or vessel).
2-Absolute pressure transmitters are used to measure the total pressure of a process (inside and outside). They are typically used to measure the pressure in a vessel where the pressure is at or above atmospheric pressure.
3-A gauge pressure transmitter is used to measure the pressure of a process relative to atmospheric pressure (gage or barometric pressure).
Features and benefits of pressure transmitters
There are many benefits of using a pressure transmitter. They can accurately and precisely measure pressure, regardless of the exact pressure source, and are available in a wide variety of configurations to suit many different applications and industries.
Many pressure transmitters come with a built-in calibration feature, which can make them significantly easier to use and can help avoid costly calibration mistakes. Pressure transmitters can be used to monitor a wide variety of pressure values, including absolute, sub-atmospheric, differential, gauge, and vacuum pressures.
They can also be used to measure flow, which can be helpful, for example, in a pipeline where the flow rate can change unexpectedly. A properly maintained and calibrated pressure transmitter can last for many years. Finally, pressure transmitters are extremely affordable.
How to select the right pressure transmitter
The first step in selecting the right pressure transmitter is finding out what the process is measuring. This can help narrow down the types of pressure transmitters you might need. Next, you will want to consider how the pressure transmitter will be installed.
This can affect your selection since you will need to make sure it’s compatible with the specific installation location you have in mind. Finally, you’ll want to consider the other system components that will be used with the pressure transmitter.
For example, if the system uses a digital signal, you’ll want to select a pressure transmitter that can transmit the signal properly. When selecting a pressure transmitter, you should make sure to check for the appropriate safety ratings. This will ensure that the transmitter is safe for use in your specific application.
The manufacturer should provide detailed information about the safety requirements of the pressure transmitter, so make sure to read the product information carefully. Once you’ve selected the pressure transmitter, you should follow the installation and maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will help ensure a safe installation and operation, as well as a long operating life for the transmitter.
Pressure transmitter installation tips
An important tip when installing a pressure transmitter is to make sure the correct connection type is being used. For example, if you are connecting the transmitter to a pipe, you should make sure that it is compatible with the pipe material.
If you are connecting the transmitter to a liquid column in a vessel, you should make sure that the transmitter can withstand the pressure of the vessel. Other tips for installing a pressure transmitter include making sure the transmitter is placed in a location with minimal vibration and pressure differentials.
If a transmitter is placed in an area with large pressure differentials, it may not function properly. Also, make sure to select a mounting method that is compatible with the transmitter used. For example, if you are mounting a transmitter inside a vessel, you will want to make sure that it’s properly gasketed to prevent leaks.
Pressure transmitter maintenance and troubleshooting
The best way to prolong the life of a pressure transmitter is to maintain it properly. You can do this by making sure to perform regular inspections, cleaning the transmitter, and testing the calibration. For routine inspections, you should be checking the following items: mounting location, housing integrity, electrical connections, fluid connections, fluid level, wiring, and fluid condition.
You should also be on the lookout for any signs of damage or wear, such as cracks in the housing, corrosion, and a buildup of debris. Any of these could indicate a problem and should be repaired as soon as possible. In addition, you should be keeping an eye on the transmitter’s process connection, to make sure it is not getting blocked.
Pressure transmitter calibration
One of the most important things to do when maintaining a pressure transmitter is calibrating it. This can help ensure that the transmitter is accurately measuring the desired pressure. It’s important to calibrate the transmitter regularly, at least once a year, or after any significant process changes. You can use a pressure calibration gauge to calibrate most transmitters.
Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when calibrating the transmitter, as there may be specific requirements or guidelines. Some important tips include making sure the transmitter is clean before calibrating it. This will help prevent any external forces, such as a build-up of dirt, from affecting the calibration reading. You should also make sure that the transmitter is properly connected to the calibration equipment before taking the reading.
Pressure transmitter testing
Testing a pressure transmitter is similar to calibrating it. However, you will be using a different piece of equipment to take the reading. You can use a pressure test gauge to test a transmitter. Again, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when testing the transmitter.
You should clean the transmitter before testing it to prevent any external forces from affecting the reading. Before testing, make sure that you have the proper equipment, such as a gauge pressure source if testing a gauge pressure transmitter. You will also want to make sure that the transmitter is properly connected to the equipment and that the equipment has the proper calibration.
Conclusion
Pressure transmitters are a critical component of industrial process control systems. They can measure and transmit the pressure of a liquid or gas in a variety of applications, from oil and gas production, to chemical processing. With so many pressure transmitters on the market, it can be difficult to know which is right for your needs.
The best way to find the right pressure transmitter is to first find out what the process is measuring, and then select a transmitter that is compatible with the installation location. Once you’ve selected the right pressure transmitter, you should follow the installation and maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer.
This will help ensure a safe installation and operation, as well as a long operating life for the transmitter. Finally, you should regularly inspect and calibrate the pressure transmitter to make sure it is accurately measuring the desired pressure.
References:
1-Silicon pressure transmitters with overload protection
https://doi.org/10.1134/S0005117916070146
2-Impulse Line Blocking Diagnosis of Digital differential pressure transmitter
https://doi.org/10.1109/SICE.2006.314732
