What’s the difference between pressure sensors, pressure transducers, and pressure transmitters?

Not much, really. All three are electronic pressure sensing devices. Technically, a transducer measures pressure or another physical property (load, force, etc.) and converts that reading into an electronic signal like 4 … 20 mA or DC 0 … 5 V. A transmitter does that too, but with amplification and modification, then sends that signal to a receiver. Manufacturers do not always differentiate between the two, and some users simply call any pressure device with a wire a pressure sensor.

With so many types of pressure sensors available, how do I choose the right one for my application?

We have more than 30 pressure sensors in our portfolio because particular applications call for specific solutions. Here are some questions to ask:

• What type of signal output do I need? The standard ones are current (two-wire 4 … 20 mA, 20 … 4 mA), voltage (3-wire DC 0 … 10 V, etc.), and ratiometric (3-wire DC 0.5 … 4.5 V). WIKA offers other output signals on request, as well as pressure sensors with IO-Link, CANopen, or Modbus communication technologies.
• What kind of accuracy does the application call for? Our portfolio has accuracies from ±2.4% to ±0.05% of span, depending on the measuring range.
• What pressure range does the application call for? For example, certain gas applications require a ranges of 0 … 20 inWC, while waterjet cutting needs a pressure sensor than can handle over 100,000 psi.
• Will the pressure sensor be used in extreme conditions? Mobile machinery and tire curing are two of the many applications with high temperatures, continuous pressure cycles, extreme shock/vibration, corrosive media, and more. In such cases, choose a pressure sensor that is robust enough to perform reliably under these challenging conditions

In short, pressure sensors are generally differentiated by their measuring ranges, pressure connection thread, output signal, and electrical connection. This overview of our pressure sensors offers more details. If you’re still uncertain as to what pressure transducer or pressure transmitter to select, our product specialists are happy to offer personalized advice.

How do pressure sensors work?

The three most-common pressure measurement principles in pressure sensors are thin-film, thick-film, and piezoresistive. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. The standardized pressure connection directs the pressure being measured onto the pressure sensor element. The electronics of the pressure sensor then converts the signal into a scaled signal, which is passed on to the subsequent signal evaluation via a standardized connector or cable.

What are differential pressure transmitters used for?

A differential pressure sensor measures, calculates, and transmits the difference between two pressures. Some units also display the differential pressure. Sensors like the A2G-50 are used in the monitoring of filters, pumps, or compressors in ventilation and air conditioning. Differential pressure transmitter also play a major role in hydroelectric power plants.