What is a Pressure Gauge?
A pressure gauge is a process instrumentation equipment that measures and displays pressure levels of liquid and gas. It is widely used in industrial applications such as electrical plants, energy production, mining and extraction and other industries.
Differences between Analog Gauges and Digital Gauges
To decide between an analog pressure gauge and a digital pressure gauge, one must know the differences between them. It will help understand which of the two is best suited for the user’s application and upgrading to a digital gauge may not be necessary.
Analog gauges are mechanical gauges that have a needle on the gauge face. Digital gauges are electronic gauges that display a numerical of the measurements. Due to the manufacturing process and materials used, analog gauges are cheaper than digital gauges which might be favorable if many gauges are needed on site.
Analog gauges have been in the industry for decades, while digital gauges have been more common in the past decade. More mature engineers, technicians and operators will be more comfortable with analog gauges.
Analog gauges provide real-time reading as well as spike variations. Digital gauges have a short lag, and some gauges display the average reading instead of continuous changes. For real-world use where changes in variation matters, it is better to have analog gauges.
Analog gauges are mechanical and therefore do not need a power source, while digital gauges are electronic and require a power source. A digital gauge can be powered by batteries or solar. For use cases where the time taken for battery replacements can prove a problem, it is better to have analog gauges.
Analog gauges are still important in some cases and thus upgrading to digital gauges will not be necessary. However, in some applications, upgrading may be a better choice.
Digital gauges are precise as they display a specific numerical reading, while analog gauges have needles that move over the measurement face. The position of the reader can significantly affect actual readings with perceived readings and cause issues later on.
Digital gauges are solid-state and can therefore withstand shocks and vibrations, while analog gauges have moving parts and can therefore be damaged. In sites where continuous drilling is operated, digital gauges are optimal.
Digital gauges can display multiple readings and thus can be used for a wide array of gauges, while analog gauges can display one reading at a time.
Digital gauges are backlit and can therefore provide visible readings in low light conditions and at night. Analog gauges lack that feature and thus not suitable in dark situations. Operation sites where daylight is an issue, digital gauges are optimal for use.
Quality Assured Gauges by Contact Instruments
Contact Instruments is one of the leading manufacturers of drilling equipment in Alberta, Canada. We manufacture both analog and digital gauges for your operational needs.
We also provide various process instrumentation equipment such as Type F standpipe pressure gauges, torque gauges and systems, and weight indicator systems. Visit our product site to check out all our drilling and hydraulic equipment.