Experiment: Calibration of A Bourdon Pressure Gauge 2-1 Introduction
Experiment: Calibration of A Bourdon Pressure Gauge 2-1 Introduction
2-1 introduction:
When pressure is applied to the tube, it tends to straighten out, and the
deflection of the end of the tube is communicated through a system of
levers to a recording pointer. This gauge is widely used for steam and
compressed gases. The pressure indicated is the difference between the
system pressure and to the external (ambient) pressure, and is usually
referred to as the gauge pressure.
Figure 1
Aims :
Theory:
The bourdon gauge is the most popular pressure measuring device for both
liquids and gasses. It can be connected to any source of pressure such as a
pipe or vessel containing a pressurized fluid.
1.Bourdon Gauge:
The Bourdon Gauge (Figure 2) is fitted with a transparent dial, which lets
you see the internal workings of the gauge. The gauge consists of a thin
walled closed ended tube which is oval in cross section. This tube is bent
through an angle of about 270o along its long axis. The open end of the
tube is welded to a hollow mounting block which allows the pressurized
fluid to reach the tube. This causes the pressure from the source to be
transmitted directly to the inside of the bourdon tube. The applied pressure
causes the oval tube to become rounder (since a round cross section has the
maximum area for a given circumference). As it becomes rounder, the
bourdon tube tends to uncurl which causes its free end to move. A system
of linkages and levers transmits this motion to the gauge needle which
moves over the scale.
Figure 2
Procedure :
2. Connection:
- Identify the pressure source and ensure it is suitable for the pressure
range of the Bourdon gauge.
- Use a wrench to securely connect the Bourdon gauge to the pressure
source, ensuring there are no leaks at the connection point.
5.Release Pressure:
- Carefully release the pressure from the system by gradually closing the
valve.
- Disconnect the Bourdon gauge using a wrench, ensuring to relieve
any residual pressure before removal.
Calculations:
When using a Bourdon gauge, several calculations can be performed to
determine pressure and analyze performance. Here are some key
calculations:
1.Pressure Calculation:
The Bourdon gauge measures pressure based on the deformation of the
Bourdon tube. The formula for pressure \( P \) can be derived from the
relationship between the deflection of the tube and the internal pressure.
\[
P = \frac{E \cdot I \cdot (R - d)}{k \cdot L}
\]
Where:
\( P \) = Pressure (Pa)
\( E \) = Modulus of elasticity of the material (Pa)
\( I \) = Moment of inertia of the tube's cross-section (m^4)
\( R \) = Radius of curvature of the tube (m)
\( d \) = Diameter of the tube (m)
\( k \) = Constant based on gauge design
\( L \) = Length of the effective arc (m)
\[
\delta = \frac{P \cdot L^2}{3 \cdot E \cdot I}
\]
Where:
\( \delta \) = Deflection (m)
\( P \) = Internal pressure (Pa)
\( L \) = Length of the Bourdon tube (m)
\( E \) = Modulus of elasticity (Pa)
\( I \) = Moment of inertia of the tube's cross-section (m^4)
#### 3. **Calibration**
Calibration of a Bourdon gauge involves determining the relationship
between the pressure applied and the corresponding reading on the gauge.
This can be represented as:
\[
\text{Reading} = m \cdot P + b
\]
Where:
\( \text{Reading} \) = Gauge reading
\( m \) = Slope of the calibration line (sensitivity)
\( b \) = Y-intercept (error at zero pressure)