Let’s Chat About Air Pressure Switches!

Air flow pressure switches and differential pressure switches work just like the light switches we have in our living rooms at home: when they are switched on, the switch makes contact, closes the circuit, and turns on. When they are switched off, the circuit is broken and power turns off. With air flow switches, instead of being manually switched, the air flow switch closes or opens the contact by reacting to changes in the air pressure at a pre-set actuation point, and turns on and off accordingly. These air pressure switches may be used to start/stop motors or fans, open/close dampers or louvers, sound alarms, and more. Continue reading “Let’s Chat About Air Pressure Switches!”

Select Key Pressure Measurements and Their Importance

Last September, we wrote about the different types of pressure and how each type is referenced. This post discussed atmospheric (barometric), absolute, gage, vacuum, differential, and hydrostatic pressure. For a refresher on these pressure types, click here. This post will expand on last September’s post by listing some more key pressure measurements and explaining their importance. Continue reading “Select Key Pressure Measurements and Their Importance”

Pressure Monitoring in Pump Systems

Why do the inlet and outlet pressure of pumps need to be monitored? What issues may be encountered if they are not monitored?

Air compressors, irrigation systems, and heat exchangers all use pumps to push air or water through their systems. If the pressure in any of these systems is too high or too low, it could have serious consequences for the pump, the pipes, or the entire system. Most engineers choose pumps that operate 80-110% of their Best Efficiency Point (BEP), the point on the curve where the pump is most efficient. Pump performance will suffer if the pump is operating outside of the BEP, so it is important to monitor pressure to ensure you are getting the most out of your pumping system. Continue reading “Pressure Monitoring in Pump Systems”