For several years now, manufacturing processes have been increasingly automated. In some cases, automation has led to significant cost reductions. Does it still make sense to use mechanical pressure and temperature measuring devices?  The answer to this question is obvious and simple: yes. Both electronic and mechanical devices have characteristics that must be weighed against each other in the respective application. Below, we have summarised the respective descriptions, performance characteristics and much more relevant information on mechanical and electronic pressure and temperature measurement for you.

• Mechanical pressure measurement
  Heating systems, hydraulics, pneumatics

• Mechanical temperature measurement 
  Thermostats, household appliances, heating systems

• Electronic pressure measurement
  Industrial plants, automation, process control and monitoring

• Electronic temperature measurement
  Laboratories, industrial plants, automation, food industries
  

MECHANICAL PRESSURE GAUGES

Mechanical pressure gauges (manometers) measure the pressure of a medium (e.g. air, gas or liquid) independently of electronic energy. Depending on the area of application of the manometer, Bourdon tubes, diaphragms or capsule springs are used to measure the pressure. In the case of Bourdon tube pressure gauges, for example, the pressure is measured by a Bourdon tube (a curved tube in the pressure gauge housing) transmitting the pressure directly to the pointer.  

ELECTRONIC PRESSURE GAUGES

In electronic/digital pressure measurement, an integrated sensor (e.g. piezoresistive or thin-film) detects the applied pressure and converts it into an electrical signal. The signals can be processed further in analogue or digital form. Unlike mechanical pressure gauges, which use needles and scales, digital measuring devices can display the measurement results on a screen or forward them for signal evaluation.

MECHANICAL TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICES

Mechanical temperature measuring devices use physical effects such as thermal expansion. Well-known types include bimetallic thermometers. The change in temperature causes a deformation or change in volume, which acts directly on a pointer. 

ELECTRONIC TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICES

Electronic systems such as resistance thermometers measure temperature using sensors (e.g. Pt100 or Pt1000) consisting of a wire or plate made of a temperature-dependent conductive material, usually platinum. The electrical resistance of this metal changes depending on the temperature. This change in resistance is measured and converted into an electrical signal, which can then be displayed digitally or processed further.

CONCLUSION: WHEN SHOULD YOU USE WHICH MEASURING SYSTEM?

Mechanical measuring systems offer a simple, robust and cost-effective way of displaying pressure or temperature – ideal for simple applications where data acquisition or remote monitoring is not necessary. They are power-free, easy to read and durable, but limited in terms of accuracy and functionality. 

Electronic measuring systems are the modern choice for precise, fast and digitally usable measurements. They can be integrated into control systems, enable remote maintenance and automatic process control. Although they require power and are generally more expensive, they offer maximum functionality and flexibility, especially in industry and automation technology.

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About RIEGLER Bourdon tube pressure gauges

About RIEGLER digital pressure gauges