All about Pressure Transducers

A pressure transducer is a device used to measure the pressure of a fluid by indicating the force the fluid is exerting on surfaces it comes in contact with. Pressure transducers are used in a broad range of control and monitoring applications including flow, air speed, level, pump systems, and altitude. To calculate pressure, pressure transducers consist of a force collector, such as a flexible diaphragm, which deforms when pressurized, and a transduction element that converts this deformation into an electrical signal.

There are three reference points for measuring pressure: absolute pressure, gauge pressure, and differential pressure. While there are others, such as vacuum and sealed gauge, all can be classified into these three categories. In diaphragm type pressure sensors, reference pressure is easily defined as the pressure exerted on the other side of the diaphragm from the process being measured. Let’s take a look at the three reference points.

Absolute pressure measures the pressure relative to a perfect vacuum and uses absolute zero as a reference point. An example of this is the barometric pressure transducer. This also includes the sealed gauge pressure, where the signal has been offset to match the gauge pressure at time of construction. Gauge pressure measures the pressure relative to atmospheric pressure. An example of this is a tire pressure sensor or vacuum sensors whose signals are reversed so that the signal is positive when the measured pressure is lower than the atmospheric pressure. The third reference point is the differential pressure, which measures the difference between two pressures on each side of the sensor. An example of this is a liquid pressure transducer where the fluid levels above and below the liquid are measured.

When connected to an electrical source and pressure source, a pressure transducer will produce an electrical output signal proportional to the pressure in the form of voltage, current, or frequency. There are four output parameters available, depending on the device. The first output comes from digital pressure transducers. Digital signals provide more versatility than analog. These are often called smart devices because they provide more functionality than other types of sensors and are best used for long transmission distances and smart sensing applications.

The second type of output comes from the millivolt output pressure sensor. The actual output is proportional to the pressure transducer’s input power or excitation. If the input changes, the output changes. Because of the output’s dependence on the input, millivolt transducers are recommended for use with regulated power supplies. These are ideal for use when there is a short distance between the transducer and the readout instrument, there is minimal electrical noise, or a more durable pressure sensor is required to withstand a harsh environment.

The third type of output comes from voltage pressure transmitters. In these pressure sensors, the output is normally 0-5 dc or 0-10Vdc and provides a higher output than a millivolt transducer due to the integral signal condition. These devices have a high level of output and therefore are not as susceptible to electrical noise as other types of transducers. They are ideal for use in industrial environments where electrical noise may be present. Finally, the mA output pressure transmitter is the most common type. The signal can vary from 0 to 4 mA to 20 mA and is designed as a two wire installation where the power supply lines provide voltage to the transducer to generate the signal. This type of output is ideal for use in environments with high electrical interference or where long transmission distances are required.

For all types of pressure transducers and other aircraft components, look no further than Veritable Aerospace. Owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, we can help you find all types of parts for the aerospace, civil aviation, defense, electronics, industrial, and IT hardware markets. Our account managers are always available and ready to help you find all the parts and equipment you need, 24/7-365. For a quick and competitive quote, email us at sales@veritableaerospace.com or call us at 1-714-705-4780. Let us show you why we consider ourselves the future of purchasing.


  1. Posted on April 14, 2021
  2. electronics

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