The Effects of High Temperature and Medium on Pressure Gauges

High Temperature

Pressure gauges should only be used in conjunction with temperatures up to 60⁰ C. In the case with its use in higher temperatures, the accuracy of the gauge may be affected. Industrial gauges with ranges up to 60000kpa will normally have the bourdon tube soft soldered in ... and it will be normally recommended it not be used in over 100⁰ C. For applications over this temperature, we suggest you consult us with our recommendation.

Steam and Syphons

Gauges used on steam should always be used in conjunction with syphons, which have a condensate barrier between the live steam and the pressure gauge.

Medium

Pressure gauges can be used in most mediums that suit their material of construction, be it corrosive or non-corrosive. Air, oil and water are non-corrosive so brass materials of construction would be suitable. Gauges which would be used on gases with a range of 2500 kpa and above are to be of safety pattern design and are a special manufacture. General gauges cannot be used if the medium is oxygen or an oil free gas since these gauges are also safety pattern design. It is also important to note that manufactured oil free, as oil and oxygen when combined and pressurised, will cause an explosion.

When the medium contains solids, such as slurries, which may block the connection and bourdon tube, or the gauges are being used in the food and Beverage industry, where they are required to be hygienic, it is recommended that diaphragm seals be used. Diaphragm seals form a barrier between the product and the internals of the gauge, thus extending the life of the gauge in a slurry situation and not letting bacteria form when hygiene is required.