Stainless Steel Process Gauges

When using a pressure gauge, several important considerations ensure accurate and safe operation. First, select a gauge with an appropriate pressure range - ideally, the normal operating pressure should fall within 25% to 75% of the full-scale range. This avoids overloading and improves accuracy.

Compatibility with the process media is also critical. The gauge materials, especially the wetted parts, must resist corrosion or damage from the fluid or gas being measured. In harsh or sanitary environments, consider using a diaphragm seal to protect the gauge.

Temperature can affect accuracy and damage internal components, so ensure the gauge is rated for the process and ambient temperatures. Vibration and pulsation can also impact readings or wear out the gauge; using liquid-filled gauges or snubbers can help dampen these effects. Regular calibration and maintenance are essential for long-term accuracy. Finally, proper installation orientation and ensuring no blockages in the pressure port are key to reliable readings.

Metric, NPT, BSPP, and BSPT are different types of screw threads used for pipes and fittings, each with distinct characteristics. Metric threads are standardized by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). They have a specific pitch and diameter measured in millimetres and are used globally for general mechanical fastening.

NPT (National Pipe Thread) is a U.S. standard with a tapered thread design, meaning the thread diameter decreases along the length. This taper creates a tight, leak-resistant seal when threaded into a fitting, commonly used in plumbing and industrial applications.

BSPP (British Standard Pipe Parallel) threads are parallel (straight) and used mainly in the UK and Commonwealth countries. BSPP fittings seal using an O-ring or gasket rather than the threads themselves.

BSPT (British Standard Pipe Tapered) threads are tapered like NPT but follow British standards. BSPT threads form a seal by wedging the threads together, similar to NPT, but are not interchangeable with NPT due to differences in thread angle and pitch. Understanding these differences is vital for proper fitting and leak prevention.

Calibration is the process of comparing a measuring instrument against a known reference standard to verify its accuracy and performance. In industrial environments, calibration ensures that equipment such as thermometers, pressure gauges, and sensors provide reliable readings that align with national or international measurement standards. This process identifies any deviations and, if necessary, adjusts the instrument to maintain compliance with specified tolerances. Regular calibration is essential for quality control, safety, and regulatory compliance across industries including manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, food processing, and energy. Without calibration, measurements may drift over time, leading to errors that impact product quality, efficiency, and safety. By establishing confidence in measurement accuracy, calibration supports consistent processes, reduces downtime, and helps businesses meet stringent industry standards and customer expectations.

A glycerine filled pressure gauge is designed to provide reliable and accurate readings, even in demanding environments. The glycerine inside the gauge acts as a dampening fluid, reducing the effects of vibration, pulsation, and sudden pressure changes that can cause pointer fluctuations. This makes it much easier to read measurements quickly and precisely.

These gauges are especially valuable in applications involving pumps, compressors, or machinery that generate vibration. By ensuring stable, accurate readings and improving durability, a glycerine-filled pressure gauge offers both performance and long-term cost savings, making it an excellent choice for industrial, commercial, and mechanical use.