Application and Installation of Differential Pressure Sensors

Application Areas of Differential Pressure Sensors

Differential pressure sensor is a device that uses a differential pressure sensor to measure air flow and pressure, and is often used in air quality control systems such as ventilation, heating, air conditioning and gas water heaters. Also, differential pressure sensors are widely used in airway measurement, fan control, cylinder positioning, and other fields.

Principle of Differential Pressure Sensor

Differential pressure sensor is a kind of sensor that calculates differential pressure based on the principle of differential pressure, and the commonly used measurement methods are hot film method, power method, diffusion method, etc.. The basic principle of these methods refers to the measurement of differential pressure through some special sensing elements, such as piezoelectric crystals, capacitance sensors and pressure-sensitive impedance elements, etc., which convert the airflow into an electrical signal output, thus realising the measurement of differential pressure.

The difference between a static pressure sensor and a differential pressure sensor is that they measure with different reference standards.

Static pressure sensor is to the atmospheric pressure or absolute vacuum as a reference, compare the measured pressure and the difference between atmospheric pressure or absolute vacuum; differential pressure sensor is one of the two pressures as a reference, compare the difference between the two pressures. The static pressure sensor can be regarded as a specific form of differential pressure sensor. However, due to the needs of the measurement of the two in the structure will have greater differences.

From the transmitter and sensor point of view they all have the function of being measured into a signal, which is their common point.

Installation Position of Differential Pressure Sensors

Correct installation location of differential pressure sensors ensures their accuracy and stability. Typically, differential pressure sensors should be installed in a pipe or duct with one sensor at each end of the fluid inlet and outlet. In ducts, avoid mounting in locations where protrusions or contaminants are present to prevent errors and contaminant clogging. In ducts, avoid installing in locations where bends or straight pipes are unbent to prevent errors and eddy currents.

In addition, the following points should be noted:

1. The distance between sensors should be sufficient to ensure accurate measurement of differential pressure;

2. The mounting location should be easily accessible for maintenance and calibration;

3. The sensor should not come into direct contact with high temperature or high humidity gases that could damage the sensing element;

4. Mounting should ensure airflow sliding at both ends to minimize errors.

Correct Application of Differential Pressure Sensor requires the following steps and precautions:

1. Understand the Application Requirements: Define the range of differential pressure to be measured, the accuracy requirements, environmental conditions, etc.. Understanding the application scenarios and requirements is the basis for the correct selection and application of differential pressure sensors. 

2. Select the Right Sensor: Select the right differential pressure sensor according to the application requirements. Consider factors such as pressure range, accuracy, response time, stability and durability for selection. At the same time, understand the characteristics and applicable scenarios of different sensor types (e.g., diaphragm, piezoresistive, piezoelectric, etc.) to ensure the correct selection.

3. Mounting and Connection: Follow the installation guide for the differential pressure sensor. Make sure the fixing and connection of the sensor is correct to avoid the sensor being disturbed by external force and vibration. Take care to protect the sensor cables and connectors from damage.

4. Calibration and Commissioning: Before use, calibrate the differential pressure sensor to achieve measurement accuracy. Follow the calibration method and equipment provided by the sensor manufacturer. If higher precision and accuracy is required, commissioning and optimisation can be carried out, e.g. adjusting parameters such as magnification, gain, zero position, etc.

5. Care and Maintenance: Inspect and maintain the differential pressure sensor regularly to ensure proper operation. Clean the surface of the sensor to avoid the influence of deposits and dust on the performance of the sensor. Ensure that the power supply and signal lines are stable and reliable.

6. Monitoring and Calibration: During daily use, monitor and verify the measurement results of the differential pressure sensor to ensure that they meet expectations. Calibration and verification can be done using calibration equipment or by comparing to other reliable sensors. Abnormal results are checked and handled in a timely manner.

7. Safe Use: Take necessary safety measures according to the application requirements. Comply with the relevant safety operating procedures to ensure the safety of the working environment and equipment.

Summary

Differential pressure sensors are an important measuring device for a wide range of applications including air quality control, airway measurement, fan control, cylinder positioning, etc. The choice of installation location is crucial, and it is necessary to avoid the interference of various errors and contaminants to ensure the accuracy of the measurement results. When in use, care and maintenance and calibration are also required to ensure the reliability and stability of the sensor.