Pressure sensors

In any industry, access to fast, reliable, and durable pressure-measuring devices is essential. Not only does monitoring pressure accurately enable efficient processes in a manufacturing environment, but pressure sensors also play an integral role in workplace safety.

If machines and their internal components reach higher pressures than those with which they're designed to cope, the risk of serious damage or even explosion increases. Likewise, a low-pressure sensor could help prevent machine breakdowns and leaks in heating systems. Above all, pressure monitoring is crucial for efficiency and profitability.

At RS, we're one of North America's leading suppliers of electrical components and supplies for commercial applications. No matter your industry, we're sure that you'll be able to find the right pressure sensor here.

What are pressure sensors and why are they needed?

Pressure sensors are devices that detect pressure and convert it into an electric output signal. A device that can detect atmospheric pressure is known as a barometric pressure sensor. These make up most industrial pressure sensors.

Output signals from pressure sensors provide engineers with the ability to adapt systems according to specific requirements. In turn, both analog pressure sensors and digital pressure switches help to increase process efficiencies and lower operational costs.

Which pressure sensors are available?

You can use our handy filters to narrow your search by manufacturer, output, measurement units and range, supply voltage, and more detailed criteria too. Browse the collection now to discover models from leading brands such as:

• Balluff
• Dwyer Instruments
• Gefran
• Honeywell
• Setra Systems Inc.
• Telemecanique Sensors
• Wika Instruments

However, it's also essential to make sure you obtain the correct sensor type for your desired application. A few of the most integral types of pressure sensor include:

Gauge pressure sensors

Gauge pressure is that which is measured above atmospheric pressure. It's the most common pressure measurement, so you'll find a wide variety of sealed gauge and vented gauge pressure sensors in our online range.

Gauge pressure sensors measure pressure relative to atmospheric pressure. Sealed gauge sensors are fixed to a pressure reference point, usually of one bar, while vented gauge models operate at atmospheric pressure levels and constantly fluctuate. We stock a vast selection of gauge pressure sensors, so please don't hesitate to get in touch if you'd like some help finding the right model.

Pressure transducers

Pressure transducers are sensors that convert readings into electrical signals. Many pressure sensors are transducers, but it's important to bear in mind that the signal converted by transducers is always analog electrical output – typically as millivolt per volt.

However, the need for accurate and reliable pressure transducers throughout industrial settings is higher than ever. Pressure management enables workers and researchers to access important data to refine and improve the quality, safety, and efficiency of modern systems.

Pressure transmitters

Pressure differential transmitters vary from transducers, though the terms are often confused or used interchangeably in industrial contexts.

Pressure transmitters build on the capabilities of transducers, making them a superior option for those seeking more data to interpret and analyze. They benefit from extra circuitry and can linearize, amplify, and compensate the output received from a transducer.

Many pressure transmitters are manufactured with customizable settings, including zero/span adjustment and turndown. Pressure transmitters require a power supply, which might not suit applications that demand long-term use.

Absolute pressure gauge

These sensors are not limited just to measuring the pressure of air or gas, and they work slightly differently to transducers. Absolute pressure sensors are required in navigation systems, engine manifolds in gasoline and diesel vehicles, and industrial packaging.

In an absolute pressure sensor, the measurement is made possible by comparing a target pressure with the known pressure of a vacuum.

Differential pressure sensors

A differential pressure transducer functions in relation to the static differential measurement principle. Each sensor consists of two chambers within a cylinder – one for positive pressure and one for negative pressure. These are separated by a diaphragm, which sits in the middle of the two chambers when they're both equal in pressure.

If the pressure changes or differs between the two chambers, the diaphragm deforms in the direction of the chamber with negative (lower) pressure. Differential pressure can therefore be measured using the degree by which the diaphragm deforms.

Differential pressure sensors are most often needed for applications within remote water-based heating systems, offshore gas and oil processing, and in waste treatment plants.

Vacuum transducers

Vacuum pressure transducers measure pressure in the opposite direction. Using these reversed signals, they give a positive reading when the pressure measured falls below atmospheric pressure. As a result, vacuum pressure sensors are frequently used to measure sub-atmospheric pressures.

They contain features including temperature measurement outputs, TTL-compatible switches, and negative pressure outputs. Vacuum sensors are also divided into ranges of low, high, and ultra-high vacuum.

We stock vacuum sensors from leading brands including Honeywell, Wika Instruments, and many more.

How to choose a pressure sensor

Before buying your new pressure-measuring device, it's important to ensure that your chosen model is equipped with the necessary features and capacities to suit your desired application. A few things to bear in mind during the process could include:

• Operating temperature: Could the sensor withstand its environment?
• Maximum pressure: Will your new pressure sensor be able to withstand the pressures reached by your systems and machines?
• Electrical features: Do you need a wireless signal, digital output, or switch sensor?
• Accuracy: Can you rely on the static accuracy, linearity, and repeatability of your chosen pressure sensor?
• Output: How high does the analog output voltage need to be?
• Connections: Will you install your pressure sensor with cables or threads?

Buy industrial pressure sensors from RS

As a leading distributor of industrial electrical components, RS provides high-quality pressure sensors for all commercial applications.

Suitable for multiple professional and industrial applications, our pressure-measuring devices help you provide a safe environment for your colleagues and protect the longevity of the systems you use. We know exactly how to support industries including automotive, engineering, and other major manufacturing settings.

Order now for fast delivery on all our electrical components. If you have any questions about our pressure sensors in the meantime, please don't hesitate to contact our expert team who can provide friendly advice before you buy.