All categories
Featured selections
Trade Assurance
Buyer Central
Help Center
Get the app
Become a supplier
(14394 products available)
Ready to Ship
There are various types of sensors for measuring pressure and compression. Each type offers a unique function and application. Below are the most popular compression sensors defined by their measuring principle, compatibility, technology used, and application.
This type of sensor operates by measuring the change in electrical resistance of a material when subjected to mechanical stress. As compression increases, the resistance changes, which is usually reflected as a change in voltage across the sensor. A few applications include: measuring liquid and gas pressure in the industrial field, and pressure detection in the automotive sector.
This sensor determines pressure by assessing how the sensor's capacitance changes due to its diaphragm**** deformation. The diaphragm deforms with pressure, causing an irregular spacing between the plates. It changes capacitance. The more pressure goes up, the greater the diaphragm deformation and the capacitance change. The capacitance values are advanced into pressure values. Common applications include: they are widely used in cleanroom pressure monitoring and barometric devices.
These sensors are usually attached to a material. No matter what the material is, when the material is subjected to strain, it causes a change in resistance, which translates into pressure reading. Strain gauges bonded to a diaphragm measure the pressure. Pressure causes the diaphragm to deflect, and the deflection is converted into resistance by the strain gauge. Common applications include industrial machinery and process control.
This type of sensor has a thin flexible membrane that changes shape based on the stress or strain exerted on it. The change in membrane shape or deformation is associated with the change in pressure value and results in a specific volume of fluid. Membrane-based compression load cell sensors are used in corrosive, viscous, or particulate-based environments.
In this industry, compression sensors are used to measure pressure differentials. This information is vital for pipeline monitoring and leak detection. Pressure transducers provide real-time pressure readings, which help optimize extraction processes and ensure equipment operates within the safe pressure range. This reduces explosion and other operational risks.
Automotive engineers extensively use compression sensors. For instance, they use them to monitor tire pressure. In the internal combustion engine, they are used to measure manifold pressure. All these help enhance vehicle safety, efficiency, and emission control. Also, since this helps keep vehicles within optimal pressure levels, it reduces the risk of mechanical failure and improves fuel efficiency.
In this sector, compression sensors help ensure aircraft safety and reliability. They do this by measuring fuel and cabin pressure and monitoring fluid systems. Moreover, compression sensors withstand extreme temperatures and pressures in this industry. Thus making them a reliable sensor for this industry, especially in risky-safety applications.
In industries, hydraulic and pneumatic systems are common. The sensors help measure pressure and provide vital system feedback. This information is usually employed to boost system efficiency. In addition, monitoring pressure helps prevent equipment failures, reduces downtime, and ensures that maintenance is performed at the right time.
here, pressure sensors play an important role in monitoring fluid dynamics during product filtration and packaging processes. In filtration, for example, the sensors help measure the pressure difference between the filter's inlet and outlet, giving useful information on membrane and fouling filter permeability.
This is one of the external factors that affects the endurance of compression sensors. Extreme heat can cause the sensor materials to expand, leading to cracks or permanent deformation. Conversely, extreme cold can make the materials brittle, making them more prone to damage during physical stress. High temperatures also degrade electronic components, reducing the sensor's lifespan in adverse environments. Also, cold can cause a tight seal on some sensors. When the seal is stiff, it no longer works effectively. Therefore, temperature regulation during storage and shipping is vital in ensuring durability. Avoid extreme heat or cold during exposure, as they damage compression sensors.
Exposing a compression sensor to excessive moisture can be disastrous. Prolonged moisture exposure causes corrosion to internal and external components. In addition, corrosion can significantly weaken the wire or electronic connections and housing or casing. With such level of damage, either connectivity or signal loss will occur. Furthermore, condensation can also cause short circuits in electronic sensors. Standard practice sensors are rated against IPX, which checks the moisture resistance of a sensor. This rating helps reduce corrosion during shipping and storage.
When exposed to mechanical shock and constant vibration, compression sensors can experience internal component detachment or damage. This is particularly hazardous in sectors like automotive and aerospace, in which sensors are usually subjected to constant dynamic loads. High mechanical impact can also cause the sensor housing to crack or deform, misaligning the internal components and making the sensor inaccurate. Ends of the strain gauge in a load cell sensor are highly susceptible to mechanical stress. Therefore, use shock-absorbing mounts or enclosures, especially for sensors used in high-vibration environments.
Chemical resistance is another important factor in a compression sensor's durability. Harsh chemicals such as battery acid, cleaning agents, and corrosive gases can degrade the sensor materials, causing the sensor to malfunction. Chemical exposure usually affects the diaphragm, housing, and sealing elements. Never allow these chemicals to stay on the sensor surface. Apart from immediate damage, a chemical-soaked sensor will become internally damaged, affecting even the most accurate readings.
As with any device, accuracy and precision are two vital factors to consider. These two factors determine how reliable the sensor's received readings are. High-precision sensors are ideal for applications where only minute pressure variations are needed, such as aerospace. Conversely, in high-pressure industrial work, a sensor with great accuracy is ideal. Sensor accuracy is measured as the deviation between the measured pressure and the actual pressure. On the other hand, precision is the degree of consistency shown by the sensor in giving the same results when re-measured.
The average lifespan of a digital pressure gauge is 10 years. So, in most cases for durability, consider materials that have proven to last long, such as stainless steel or ceramic. They are highly retardant to pressure, mechanical shock, and chemicals. Also, go for IP-rated sensors. They are useful if the application is susceptible to moisture, dust, or solid particles, as they provide a good protective barrier. Additionally, high-temperature sensors have efficient heat dissipation capacity.
Another factor that will help a load cell give accurate pressure readings is medium and sensor compatibility. So, what does this mean? Well, the sensor must be able to withstand the physical and chemical properties of the medium it is measuring. For example, diary sensors must be retina to bacteria and other harsh chemicals, while oil and gas sensors should be retina to high viscosity fluids and dense gases. Moreover, the compressions sensors should work well with any electronic device to boost its efficiency.
There are variegated compression sensors, each suitable for a specific application. For instance, capacitive load sensors are usually ideal for highly dynamic applications because of their quick response time. On the flip side, piezoresistive pressure sensors are generally suitable for static pressure measurements.
A1. Compression sensors are used to monitor pressure on industrial equipment and machinery. They provide feedback and help automate processes.
A2. Strain gauges are primarily used in structural materials, while piezoresistive sensors are used for pressure measurements in fluids and solids.
A3. The average lifespan of a compression sensor varies depending on the application and environment. A typical sensor can last around 10 years.
A4. Yes, there are sensors designed specifically for high-temperature environments. Just ensure the sensor is built to withstand extreme heat.
A5. Decreased accuracy, erratic readings, or complete failure to provide measurements are signs that the sensor has failed.
