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Compound Range Pressure Gauges

Compound range pressure gauges are designed to measure both positive and negative pressures within a single instrument, making them ideal for applications where vacuum and pressure conditions exist. These gauges offer cost savings and process efficiency benefits over using separate gauges for positive and negative pressure measurement.

Compound range pressure gauges are essential tools for measuring pressure in systems that fluctuate between positive and negative values. These gauges are calibrated to display both vacuum and pressure readings on a single display, providing a comprehensive view of the system’s pressure status. This dual-measurement capability eliminates the need for separate gauges, simplifying installation and reducing costs.

Advantages

  • Cost-Effectiveness: Combining two measurement ranges in one gauge reduces the overall cost compared to purchasing and installing two separate gauges.
  • Space Optimization: A single gauge requires less space on a panel or process line compared to two individual gauges.
  • Simplified Installation: With only one gauge to install, the process is streamlined, saving time and effort.
  • Reduced Maintenance: Fewer gauges mean less maintenance and potential points of failure.
  • Overload Protected: A separate negative pressure gauge would be vulnerable to overpressurisation when the positive pressure is applied, therefore combining both ranges in one gauge eliminates any need to provide overpressure protection.

Applications

  • Distillation: Distillation processes often begin with a vacuum phase to lower the boiling point of the substance being purified. Once the desired vacuum is achieved, heat is applied, and the system may transition into a positive pressure phase as vapors are generated. A compound range gauge monitors both the initial vacuum and the subsequent pressure increase, ensuring optimal operating conditions throughout the distillation process.
  • Drying: Many industrial drying processes utilize vacuum and pressure cycles. Initially, a vacuum may be applied to remove moisture quickly and efficiently. Then, positive pressure can be introduced to further extract residual moisture or to introduce a drying gas. Compound range gauges effectively track these pressure fluctuations, optimizing the drying cycle and ensuring product quality.
  • Sterilization: Sterilization techniques often involve alternating vacuum and pressure phases. A vacuum phase may be used to remove air and moisture from the sterilization chamber, followed by the introduction of a sterilant gas under positive pressure. Compound range gauges monitor these pressure changes, ensuring effective sterilization and preventing contamination.
  • Evacuation and Filling: Processes that involve evacuating and filling vessels or pipelines frequently utilize both vacuum and pressure. For example, in the food industry, containers may be evacuated to remove air before being filled with product under pressure. Compound range gauges monitor both the vacuum level during evacuation and the positive pressure during filling, ensuring product quality and preventing container damage.
  • Chemical Reactors: Some chemical reactions require precise control over pressure, including vacuum and pressure phases. A compound range gauge can monitor the pressure fluctuations within the reactor vessel, ensuring optimal reaction conditions and preventing hazardous situations.
  • Filtration and Membrane Separation: Filtration and membrane separation processes often involve pressure differentials to drive fluid flow. These differentials can fluctuate between vacuum and positive pressure depending on the specific application and stage of the process. Compound range gauges provide accurate monitoring of these pressure changes, ensuring efficient filtration and separation.