Pressure Sensors & Transducers

Setra Systems is renowned for designing and manufacturing high-quality industrial pressure sensors and transducers. Our wide range of pressure sensors caters to various applications, including HVAC/R systems, industrial facilities, and critical environments. If you need help determining which pressure sensor is right for your application, our team is available to find a solution for your needs.

Pressure Sensing Products

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Pressure Sensor Basics

What is the difference between a pressure transducer and a pressure transmitter?

A pressure transducer is an electromechanical device that converts fluid pressure values into voltage signals across a high-impedance load (5 k ohms or greater). In contrast, a pressure transmitter is an electromechanical device that converts fluid pressure values into current signals, typically ranging from 4 to 20 mA, in a low-impedance load.

What is a differential pressure sensor?

A differential pressure sensor is a device that measures the difference in pressure between two points. It is commonly used in various applications, such as HVAC systems, to monitor and control airflow, ensure efficient operation, and perform predictive maintenance. The sensor typically employs capacitive sensing technology involving a thin diaphragm between two parallel metal plates. When pressure is applied, the diaphragm flexes, leading to a capacitance change corresponding to the pressure difference. The output determines the differential pressure, helping to optimize system performance and reduce energy costs.

What is a capacitive pressure sensor?

A capacitive pressure sensor measures differential pressure using capacitive technology. It features a thin diaphragm that flexes when pressure is applied. The extent of this flexing is measured and converted into a pressure reading. This technology enables capacitive pressure sensors to provide nearly real-time measurements with exceptional accuracy.

What is an absolute pressure sensor?

An absolute pressure sensor is a device that measures pressure about a perfect vacuum or zero pressure. It is designed to maintain a sealed environment to ensure that its measurements are not affected by changes in atmospheric pressure. The sensor allows for precise and reliable pressure readings, making absolute pressure sensors essential in various applications, such as meteorology, aerospace, and industrial processes.

What is a compound pressure sensor?

A compound pressure sensor is a device that measures both positive and negative pressures concerning atmospheric pressure. This type of sensor is essential when pressure levels vary above and below atmospheric conditions, such as in refrigeration systems or specific laboratory environments. Compound pressure sensors facilitate better monitoring and control in various applications by providing a comprehensive view of pressure changes.

What is the difference between compound pressure and absolute pressure?

Compound pressure can vary above and below atmospheric levels, while absolute pressure only measures positively from a vacuum reference.

- Compound Pressure measures pressure relative to atmospheric pressure, allowing for positive and negative (vacuum) readings. They are used in applications like HVAC systems and leak detection.

- Absolute Pressure measures pressure relative to absolute vacuum (zero pressure), resulting in only positive values. This type is essential in precise applications like scientific research and specific industrial processes.

What is a gauge pressure sensor?

A gauge pressure sensor is a device used to measure pressure relative to the local atmospheric pressure. It provides readings that indicate how much the measured pressure deviates from atmospheric pressure, meaning it can show positive or negative values based on whether the pressure is above or below the atmospheric level. These sensors are used in various applications, including monitoring hydraulic systems, HVAC systems, and tank liquid levels. They are instrumental in scenarios where atmospheric pressure can change, as they reflect those variations in their measurements.   

What is an ultra-high purity pressure sensor?

A UHP (Ultra-High Purity) pressure sensor is a specialized instrument for measuring pressure in environments requiring extreme cleanliness and precision, such as semiconductor manufacturing and pharmaceutical processes. These sensors are constructed from high-quality materials that minimize the risk of contamination and ensure reliable performance. Their design adheres to stringent purity standards, making them suitable for critical applications where accuracy and safety are paramount. UHP pressure sensors are essential for processes that cannot afford to compromise the integrity of measurements.

What is a barometric pressure sensor?

A barometric pressure sensor is a device that measures the atmospheric pressure at a specific location. It detects changes in air pressure and converts this information into electrical signals that can be processed and interpreted. These sensors are essential for various applications, including weather forecasting, altitude measurement, and HVAC systems. They are in instruments such as altimeters, weather stations, smartphones, and drones. Barometric pressure sensors are categorized into different types, including absolute, gauge, and differential pressure sensors, each designed for specific measurement needs and applications.

What are a vacuum pressure sensor, vacuum pressure transducer, and vacuum gauge sensor?

A vacuum pressure sensor is designed to measure pressure levels below atmospheric pressure, commonly known as vacuum pressure. These sensors are crucial in applications where maintaining specific vacuum conditions is important, such as in vacuum pumps, chambers, and various systems. They detect the absence of air or other gases in a given space, providing precise measurements in units like Torr, inches of mercury (Hg), or Pascals (Pa). Vacuum pressure sensors help ensure that the desired vacuum levels are achieved and maintained for effective operation in different environments.

A vacuum pressure transducer is a device designed to measure vacuum pressure, which refers to pressures below atmospheric levels. It converts this measured vacuum pressure into a standardized electrical signal; commonly used formats include 4-20mA or 0-5V. These transducers play a crucial role in the precise monitoring and control of systems operating under high vacuum conditions, and they are commonly utilized in fields such as scientific research, industrial processes, and HVAC systems.

A vacuum gauge sensor is a device used to measure the pressure within a vacuum, a space where the pressure is lower than the surrounding atmospheric pressure. These sensors detect the absence of air or other gases in that space and provide accurate pressure readings, allowing users to monitor and control vacuum levels in various applications.

What happens when a pressure sensor fails?

When a pressure sensor fails, it can lead to several issues depending on the type of sensor and its application. The sensor may provide incorrect pressure readings, affecting the safety and performance of the system it monitors. Systems that rely on accurate sensor data, such as HVAC or refrigeration units, may malfunction. In critical applications like automobile and industrial, failing sensors may pose safety risks by not alerting dangerous pressure levels.  For example, a failing tire pressure sensor can provide inaccurate pressure sensor readings, affecting vehicle handling.