Drucktransducers

Drucktransducers, commonly called pressure transducers, are devices that convert applied pressure into an electrical signal. They are widely used to monitor and control pressure in industrial, automotive, medical, and consumer applications. Some devices also include signal conditioning and are referred to as pressure transmitters.

Principle and sensing elements: The conversion is achieved by sensing elements such as strain gauges (piezoresistive), capacitive membranes, piezoelectric crystals, or resonant sensors. Strain-gauge and piezoresistive elements are well suited for static and low-frequency pressures, while piezoelectric elements excel for dynamic measurements. Capacitive sensors offer high resolution and low temperature drift.

Configurations: Transducers may be absolute, gauge, or differential pressure sensors, and can be designed for vacuum or high-pressure ranges. Most are calibrated for a reference medium and include a wetted part made of stainless steel, ceramic, or certain polymers to tolerate the media. They vary in form factor and pressure ports (threaded, flanged, or flush).

Output and electronics: The raw sensor signal is often conditioned to produce a standard analog output (for example 0–5 V or 4–20 mA) or a digital interface (I2C, SPI, CAN). Many devices include temperature compensation, linearization, and safety features. Some are designed as standalone sensors, while others are integrated in transmitters offering isolated outputs.

Applications: Pressure transducers are used in process control, hydraulics, pneumatics, automotive engine management, medical devices, and HVAC systems. Accuracy ranges from sub-percent to a few percent of full scale, depending on design, temperature stability, and media compatibility.

Considerations: Selection depends on pressure range, media compatibility, ambient conditions, electrical interface, and required accuracy. Industrial-grade transducers often employ IP-rated enclosures and robust seals to withstand harsh environments.

See also: pressure sensor, transducer, transmitter.