What is a hydraulic gauge?
Many fluids and pipe systems work at a specified pressure to ensure optimum performance. The hydraulic meter is used to measure pressure in the liquid system to ensure that there is no leaks or pressure changes that could have an adverse impact on the system's performance. Hydraulic gauges are often used in oil, fuel and water systems that use pumps and compressors, and work at increased pressures. It measures pressure due to the surrounding atmospheric pressure, also referred to as ambient pressure .
The common type of hydraulic meter is known as Bourdon Gauge . It uses a curved inner tube that changes the shape when the fluid pressure is applied. The tube is mechanically connected to the hand on the meter dial by means of a mechanical bond. As the curved shape of the tube changes, the tube moves and causes the hand to rotate to the position on the dial that corresponds to the pressure in the system. Hydraulic pressure is often measured in pounds per square inch (dogs) or asthe depth of fluid, expressed as a thumb of water or mercury. The meter selected for a specific application must be designed to withstand operating pressure and to be compatible with liquids used in the system. In fluids that are highly corrosive or working at high pressures, materials such as titanium, metal alloys and chemically resistant plastics are used to ensure measuring power and that the usable life is maximized.
The hydraulic meter is most often installed and used for continuous measurement and pressure monitoring. These meters can also be purchased as portable pocket units. Hydraulic meters are available in a wide range of quality levels and with many operating elements. The basic gauge provides a simple analog dial for reading pressure and usually is a steel and brass components. More expensive meters generally provide digital reading, permanently sealed inner KOMponents, use higher quality materials and provide higher levels of accuracy.
After a predetermined period of use, the hydraulic meter may need to be removed and calibrated again. The calibration process is completed using a test gauge in combination with a device that applies the known fluid pressure to the tested breakup. The test breakup is extremely sensitive and accurate and is used to determine whether a calibrated breakup measures the right pressure or requires re-calibration or repair.