Why pressure transducers are fundamental to your application

Transducers have the power to connect electrical circuits or systems to everyday devices, allowing them to function.

Imagine a leak within one of the piping systems of your home. A pressure transducer would be able to detect that leak by measuring the pressure of the liquid and converting it to an electrical signal.

In this example, the absence of a pressure transducer could cause the leak to be missed and lead to severe problems.

This article outlines the uses of pressure transducers and why they are important to your application.

What is a pressure transducer?

A pressure transducer is a mechanical device that converts applied pressure, a physical quantity, into a measurable and industry-standard electrical signal.

Unlike switches, which are either on or off, transducers provide a continuous output range as they convert measurements including pressure, load, force or other states into various outputs.

Industry professionals may refer to pressure transducers as “pressure sensors” or “pressure transmitters.” Although these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, pressure sensors produce a current output, while pressure transducers produce a voltage output — then pressure transmitters amplify, modify and send the electronic signal.

Pressure transducer applications

Due to required pressure monitoring, pressure transducers are typically found in the following industries:

Hydraulic power units: electronically measuring pressure in power units

Automotive: monitoring brake and fuel pressure in automobiles

Oil and gas: sensing oil or gas liquid levels for pump stations

Medical: monitoring liquid and gas levels

If your application requires liquid level measurement, water pipe leak detection, pressure measurement (particularly in elevated and extremely high temperatures) or flow rate measurement, pressure transducers will be present.

Your job is deciding which pressure transducer will provide the impact you’re looking for.

Types of pressure transducer electrical outputs

Understanding the different types of pressure transducer electrical outputs is important because the outputs can determine how a pressure transducer is wired.

A millivolt output is considered a cost-effective option but has a low output signal and requires a regulated power supply for input power. This can limit the signal to a short distance and cause it to lose electrical interference from nearby electrical signals.

An amplified voltage output has higher output levels from integral signal conditioning, making it less prone to electrical noise and more useful in industrial environments.

A 4-20mA output makes the best option for long-distance transmission due to the minimal impact of electrical noise and resistance in signal wires.

Nason’s transducers

With Nason, the possibilities are endless. Our compact transducers range from basic temperature transducers to highly customized wireless pressure transducers, guaranteeing customers the perfect component.

Request additional information

Our website offers endless resources, including a configuration tool, to help you find that missing piece to your application. Whether you’re looking to customize a component or grab one that’s ready to go, we provide the needed tools to get your project on the right track.

If you’re ready to find the transducer that is right for your application, locate a distributor near you or reach out with customization questions.