What is a pressure sensor?
What is a pressure sensor?
A pressure sensor is a transducer or instrument that converts an input mechanical pressure into an electrical output signal. A pressure transducer consists of a pressure-sensitive element that can measure, detect or monitor the pressure being applied and electronic components to convert the information into an electrical output signal.
Pressure is defined as the amount of force (exerted by a liquid or gas) applied to a unit of “area” (P=F/A), and the common units of pressure are Pascal (Pa), Bar (bar), N/mm2 or psi (pounds per square inch). Pressure sensors often utilize piezoresistive technology, as the piezoresistive element changes its electrical resistance proportional to the strain (pressure) experienced.
These sensors commonly measure Gauge Pressure, Absolute Pressure, and Differential Pressure.
Gauge pressure is measured against the atmospheric pressure, absolute is measured against a vacuum, and the differential pressure is the difference between two pressures.
Pressure sensors are commonly used to monitor pressures in different processes.