1. ACCURACY
For a mechanical pressure gauge,
General Industrial Processes: 1.0% accuracy. Less Critical Commercial Uses: 2.0% accuracy.
2. DIAL SIZE
Pressure gauge dial sizes range we offer from 60mmt to 250mm diameters. Generally, readability requirements, space limitations and required gauge accuracy determine dial size.
3. CASE STYLE / MATERIAL
Environmental considerations include ambient temperature, air-borne particulate, condensation, humidity, water and chemicals, all of which can affect gauge performance.
Ambient temperature may affect the accuracy and integrity of the gauge. Gauges are available either temperature compensated or non-temperature compensated. Ambient conditions may require that the gauge be isolated from temperature extremes. When required, the gauge should be isolated from temperature extremes with a flexible line assembly.
When ambient conditions are corrosive, contain a large number of particulate or if the gauge will be exposed to a wet or humid environment like humidity, wash-downs or rain, specify a gauge that is weatherproof/hermetically sealed or liquid filled.
4. MEDIA / WETTED PARTS
The wetted parts of the pressure gauge, the Bourdon tube and socket must be compatible with the process media. If not compatible with the wetted parts of the gauge, corrosion will occur. Corrosion of gauge wetted parts will eventually cause gauge failure and possibly safety issues. When the gauge wetted parts are not compatible with the process media, a diaphragm should be considered.
5. CONNECTION SIZE
Gauges are available with a variety of connections including NPT, DIN, JIS, BSP & SAE. Process pressure gauges with 100mm or 150mm dial sizes or larger are most often supplied with a 1⁄2˝ NPT connection to best support the gauge. Factors to consider when selecting a pressure gauge connection include process pressures, gauge size and weight, space limitations, leak integrity, and past experience.
6. CONNECTION LOCATION
Consider the following mounting options when selecting a pressure gauge:
Stem mount lower connect
Wall/surface mount lower connect
Panel mount back connect
U-clamp flush mount back connect, for panel mounting
Front flange flush mount back connect, for panel mounting
7. PRESSURE RANGES
Normal operating pressure be confined to 25%-75% of the scale. If pulsation is present in the process, maximum operating gauge pressure should not exceed 50% of the full-scale range.
CONCLUSION
To properly select a pressure gauge, consider the gauge process, range, environment, accuracy; dial size, connection and mounting requirements.
