Pressure Transducers: Basics, Applications, Advantages, and Disadvantages

The Coronavirus pandemic has wrecked the world and hurled lives to depths. The increasing number of Covid-19 patients has pressurized the medical sector to great extents, demanding blood pressure sensors more than ever. But instead of growing, the pressure sensor market witnessed a slight drop during the most crucial time. However, as per a report by Research Dive, the global medical pressure transducer market is expected to flourish over $9,986.2 million by 2028 at a CAGR of 6.1%.

Now that we know that this market is here to stay post-pandemic crisis, let’s dive into the basics of pressure transducers, their applications, advantages and disadvantages.

What is a Pressure Transducer and How Does It Work?

A pressure transducer, frequently named as a pressure sensor, is a device that measures the pressure of gases and liquids. Pressure transducers convert pressure into an analog-digital signal that is used by other devices like controllers and alarms for residential, commercial, and medical applications.

A pressure transducer contains a pressure-sensitive element called the “diaphragm” and a transduction element. The fluid pressure causes the diaphragm to deflect and this deflection is converted into an electrical signal by the transduction element. The electrical signal changes as per the fluctuations in the fluid pressure.

Types of Pressure Transducers

Based on the measurement technology, there are different types of pressure transducers. Some key transducers are:

• Strain gauge pressure transducer
• Capacitance pressure transducer
• Potentiometric pressure transducer
• Resonant wire pressure transducer
• Inductive pressure transducer
• Piezoelectric pressure transducer

Recent Advancements in Pressure Transducers

With science and technology leading an uphill journey, the pressure transducers industry has witnessed many developments. Here are a few of them.

In September 2020, Sensata Technologies, a leading sensor-rich solution provider, launched hermetic pressure transducers that are built based on self-propelled micro silicon strain gauge technology. The transducer was specifically launched for industrial consumption with moderate to high-pressure levels. High accuracy, burst strength, and shock and vibration endurance are some features of hermetic pressure transducers.

In June 2021, Emerson Electric Co, a renowned instrumentation vendor, drew greater revenue from its project due to its advanced gas analytical solutions and high-pressure control regulators. This led to optimized operational efficiency, greater plant reliability, environmental sustainability, and minimized operational costs.

BD SENSORS GmbH, a globally operating group engaged in pressure management technology, launched a DS5 electronic pressure switch in May 2021 that was built for mobile hydraulics and to support operational safety while working with machines like cranes, harvesters, excavators, etc.

Applications of Pressure Transducers

Below are some of the prime applications of pressure transducers:

1. Monitoring brake and fuel pressure in automobiles using brake pressure sensors
2. Sensing liquid level for well or pump stations using water pressure transmitters
3. Monitoring liquid levels in HVAC system by using differential pressure sensors
4. Altitude sensing for aircrafts and satellites
5. Monitoring both liquid and gas levels on medical devices

Advantages of Pressure Transducers

1. They are economical and are designed on robust technologies
2. They provide great stability and regulated output
3. They’re highly sensitive, compact, and lightweight
4. Simple to construct and highly durable

Disadvantages of Pressure Transducers

1. Provide only moderate accuracy in case of drifts
2. Give delayed response to shocks and vibrations
3. They’re not reliable for high-temperature ranges and offer only moderate accuracy
4. Highly sensitive to environmental conditions

Future of Pressure Transducer Industry

Despite the slight plunge, the pressure transducer industry has geared up itself post the deadly Covid-19 pandemic and is estimated to flourish by the end of 2027. Considering few of the many developments during the pandemic course, this sector has more to offer to other markets and is the backbone of the medical industry.

About the Author(s)

Princy A. J

Princy holds a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the prestigious Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. University at Chennai, India. After a successful academic record, she pursued her passion for writing. A thorough professional and enthusiastic writer, she enjoys writing on various categories and advancements in the global industries. She plays an instrumental role in writing about current updates, news, blogs, and trends.