Water pressure gauges primarily work by using a mechanical element that deforms in response to the pressure of the water, translating this deformation into a reading on a dial.
Here's a breakdown of the common working principle:
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Bourdon Tube: This is the most common mechanism. It's a C-shaped or coiled tube that's flattened. One end is sealed and connected to a pointer mechanism, while the other end is open and connected to the water source.
- When water pressure increases, the Bourdon tube tries to straighten or uncoil.
- This movement is mechanically linked to a needle on the gauge face.
- The needle rotates proportionally to the amount the tube deforms, indicating the pressure on the calibrated scale.
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Diaphragm or Capsule: Some gauges use a flexible diaphragm or a sealed capsule.
- Water pressure is applied to one side of the diaphragm/capsule.
- The diaphragm/capsule deflects proportionally to the pressure.
- This deflection is also linked to a pointer mechanism that indicates the pressure.
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Pressure Transducer: More advanced, electronic pressure gauges use pressure transducers. These gauges employ strain gauges, capacitive sensors, or other electronic elements to convert the pressure into an electrical signal. This signal is then processed and displayed on a digital display.
In essence, all water pressure gauges rely on the principle of converting water pressure into a measurable mechanical deformation or an electrical signal, which is then displayed as a pressure reading.
