Diaphragm Pressure Element
1. Introduction
A diaphragm is a thin, flexible membrane used to measure pressure. It deforms (bends) whe
n pressure is applied. This deformation is used to measure absolute, gauge, or differential pr
essure.
2. Principle
The diaphragm works on the principle of elastic deformation:
When pressure is applied to one side of the diaphragm, it bends or deflects. The amount of def
lection is proportional to the applied pressure.
This deflection is measured directly or converted into a mechanical or electrical signal.
3. Construction
● Made of thin metal, rubber, silicon, or plastic.
● One side is fixed, and the other side is exposed to pressure.
● May be flat, corrugated, or spherical.
● Often combined with:
○ Mechanical linkages (for pointer movement),
○ Strain gauges, or
○ LVDTs for electrical output.
4. Working
1. Pressure is applied on one or both sides of the diaphragm.
2. The diaphragm deflects due to the pressure difference.
3. This deflection is:
○ Measured using a pointer (in mechanical gauges),
○ Or converted into electrical signal (with strain gauges or capacitive sensors).
5. Types of Diaphragms
● Flat Diaphragm – simple, used in low-pressure applications.
● Corrugated Diaphragm – has folds for greater flexibility and movement.
● Capsule Diaphragm – two diaphragms joined at the edges for better displacement.
6. Advantages
● High sensitivity, especially at low pressure
● Compact and simple design
● Can be used for corrosive or toxic fluids (with protective coating)
● Suitable for differential, gauge, and absolute pressure
7. Disadvantages
● Limited to low and medium pressure
● Affected by temperature changes
● Fatigue may occur with repeated use
● Needs careful calibration
8. Applications
● Medical equipment (e.g., blood pressure monitors)
● Gas and liquid pressure measurement
● HVAC systems
● Industrial control and process monitoring
● Flow meters and level sensors
10. Comparison with Other Elements
Element Displacement Pressure Range Output Type
Bourdon Tube Small High Mechanical
Bellows Large Low–Medium Mechanical/Electrical
Diaphragm Moderate Low–Medium Mechanical/Electrical
Bourdon Tube Pressure Gauge
1. Introduction
The Bourdon tube is one of the most commonly used mechanical pressure measuring instrume
nts. It is simple, strong, and reliable. It converts pressure into mechanical displacement and is w
idely used in industries.
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2. Principle
The Bourdon tube works on the principle that:
> When pressure is applied to a curved, hollow tube with an oval cross-section, it tends to straig
hten.
This movement is proportional to the applied pressure and is converted into a readable signal (e.
g., pointer movement).
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3. Construction
The Bourdon tube consists of:
Curved Tube: Made of metal (brass, bronze, or stainless steel) with an oval cross-section, bent i
n a C-shape or spiral.
Fixed End: Connected to the pressure source.
Free End: Closed end which moves when pressure is applied.
Linkage Mechanism: Includes a gear, lever, and spring system connected to a pointer on a dial.
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4. Working
1. When pressure is applied to the tube, the internal pressure increases.
2. This causes the cross-section to try to become circular, and the tube straightens slightly.
3. The free end of the tube moves due to this change in shape.
4. This motion is transmitted through a mechanical linkage to a pointer.
5. The pointer moves over a calibrated scale, showing the pressure value.
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5. Types of Bourdon Tubes
C-Type: Most common, curved like the letter "C".
Helical Type: Spiral shape, gives larger movement.
Spiral Type: Circular coil shape for very sensitive measurements.
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6. Materials Used
Brass: For low-pressure air/gas.
Stainless Steel: For high pressure or corrosive fluids.
Phosphor Bronze: General use.
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7. Advantages
Simple and rugged design
Can measure high pressures (up to 1000 bar)
No external power required
Easy to install and maintain
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8. Disadvantages
Limited accuracy compared to electronic sensors
Sensitive to vibration and shock
Not suitable for very low pressure
Friction in the linkage can reduce precision
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9. Applications
Steam boilers
Hydraulic systems
Air compressors
Oil and gas industries
Refrigeration and HVAC systems
Bellows Element
1. Introduction
Bellows are mechanical elements used for measuring pressure, force, or displacement. They w
ork by expanding or compressing when pressure is applied, and are commonly used in pressure
gauges, sensors, and actuators.
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2. Principle of Operation
Bellows operate on the principle of elastic deformation. When pressure is applied:
The bellows expand or compress.
The movement of the bellows is proportional to the applied pressure.
This movement is measured directly or converted into an electrical signal using sensors.
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3. Construction
A bellows element consists of:
Thin-walled, accordion-like cylindrical tube made of metal (like bronze, brass, or stainless steel).
It has multiple convolutions (folds) for flexibility.
One end is fixed, the other is free to move.
Often combined with a spring or mechanical linkage to balance and control movement.
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4. Working
1. Pressure is applied inside the bellows.
2. The internal pressure causes expansion or compression.
3. The free end moves linearly.
4. This movement can:
Move a pointer (mechanical gauge)
Trigger a switch
Or be detected by electronic sensors
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5. Types of Bellows
Single-element bellows – one expandable chamber.
Dual-element bellows – two bellows working in opposition (used in differential pressure).
Sealed bellows – used to isolate fluid from the sensor.
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6. Advantages
Can measure low and medium pressures accurately.
Produces larger displacement compared to diaphragm or Bourdon tube.
Can be used for vacuum and differential pressure measurement.
Suitable for both static and dynamic pressure readings.
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7. Disadvantages
Not suitable for high pressure applications.
Prone to metal fatigue after long use.
Temperature changes may affect accuracy.
Needs careful calibration.
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8. Applications
Pressure gauges and switches
Altimeters in aircraft
Fuel and oil pressure sensors
HVAC and ventilation systems
Industrial automation and robotics
Manometers
1. Introduction
A manometer is a device used to measure pressure using a column of liquid. It is simple, accura
te, and commonly used in labs and industries to measure gas or liquid pressure.
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2. Principle
Manometers work on the principle that:
> Pressure is proportional to the height of a liquid column.
Where:
= pressure
= height of the liquid column
= density of the liquid
= acceleration due to gravity
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3. Types of Manometers
A. U-tube Manometer
Has a U-shaped glass tube.
One end is connected to the pressure source, the other is open to atmosphere or sealed.
The liquid level difference in both arms shows the pressure.
B. Differential Manometer
Measures the difference in pressure between two points.
Both ends are connected to different pressure sources.
C. Inclined Manometer
Tube is inclined for more accurate readings of small pressure changes.
Provides better sensitivity.
D. Well-Type Manometer
One side is a large reservoir (well) and the other is a narrow tube.
Used to measure small pressure differences.
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4. Working
1. Pressure is applied to one or both sides of the manometer.
2. The liquid (usually mercury or water) moves and balances the pressure.
3. The height difference is measured.
4. Using the pressure formula, the pressure is calculated.
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5. Advantages
Simple and inexpensive
Accurate for low pressures
No need for calibration
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6. Disadvantages
Not suitable for very high pressure
Bulky and fragile
Can’t be used for dynamic (fast-changing) pressures
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7. Applications
Lab experiments
HVAC systems
Calibration of pressure gauges
Measuring pressure drops in pipelines
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