There are different ways to measure pressure across and throughout systems. Choosing the correct type of pressure transmitter will be essential to provide both accuracy in the pressure readings as well as a long-life cycle for the transmitter.
The Foxboro pressure transmitter works on the same principles as other brand names of transmitters. Different types of transmitters offered by Foxboro, including the vibrating wire models, are also good options to consider with the choice largely dictated by the specific application.
The Force-Balance Advantage
With the force-balance type Foxboro pressure transmitters, which are pneumatic transmitters, there are several advantages. While not as common today due to the lower cost of electronic pressure transmitters, these pneumatic models are still found in some applications. They do require the stainless steel signal tubing as well as the pneumatic air lines required for operation, which leads to more complicated installations.
The force-balance types of transmitters tend to have a shorter life cycle and have additional maintenance requirements over the electronic options that are favored with modern systems and installations.
Strain Gauge and Vibrating Wire
One of the most common types of electronic Foxboro pressure transmitters is the strain gauge. These include a pressure sensing capsule as well as the electronic components that are required to convert the change of pressure into an electronic signal.
The change in pressure is measured on a diaphragm that separates the high and low inputs of fluid in the system. As the pressure changes, so do the flex and movement of the diaphragm, which the transmitter reads and sends, as a signal.
The vibrating wire models of the Foxboro pressure transmitters operate based on a wire that is vibrated at specific tension. As the pressure changes through the system so will the vibration of the wire, which can be read by the transmitter.
