Pumps and Systems, March 2009
Pressure gauges are an important indicator of whether a system or component is operating correctly. Pressure gauges generally require little to no maintenance, other than periodic calibration. However, if gauges require minimal maintenance, why do some seem to continually wear out?
It is normal for gauges to wear out over time. If gauges are failing prematurely, or the perception is they are being replaced too often, there are some common factors that should be examined. Too often, gauge failures are the result of misapplication or abuse. The following are some important factors to consider to help ensure the instrument being used is appropriate for the application.
First, before any instrument is removed from a system, it is important to verify the system has been de-pressurized, the gauge is a safe temperature to handle, and it is free of any toxic or hazardous process media. Pressure gauges should not be re-used for applications other than the original process media, due to the risk of potential cross contamination between incompatible process media.
Calibration
NIST traceable calibration against a test gauge with accuracy at least four times greater than the instrument being tested is recommended. Ideally, the pressure range of the test instrument should be the same as the instrument tested. A digital test instrument with a range that falls within acceptable error rate may also be used. The frequency of calibration should be determined by the user according to criticality of the application and account for the many factors that contribute to the life of an instrument. These factors include, but are not limited to, vibration, pulsation, pressure spikes, pressure cycles, temperature and other environmental conditions.
Pressure Range Selection
One of the most common forms of misapplication is the improper selection of pressure range. Pressure range selection is critical and should take into account both system operating pressure and maximum system pressure. Maximum pressure, in this case, is the absolute highest pressure to which the gauge could be exposed on the system in question.
Operating pressure is the average pressure the gauge will be exposed to continually. Operating pressure should fall within the middle half of the pressure gauge dial, as indicated in ASME B40.1 standards (see Figure 1), and the pressure range selected should be at least two times the operating pressure, but not less than maximum system pressure (i.e., operating pressure of 160-psi and maximum pressure of 300-psi, should use 0- to 300-psi pressure range).
Figure 1
Pressure greater than the full scale reading should never be applied to a gauge. Applying pressure greater than full scale reading can cause the instrument to become inaccurate, cause system leaks and will severely shorten the gauge's life. If a gauge is suspected of overpressure, maximum and operating pressures should be confirmed and correct range selection should ensue. If maximum system pressure is high enough to make it unfeasible for the operating pressure to be easily readable on a dial, a pressure relief device may be installed to prevent exposure of the instrument to overpressure.
Temperature
Temperatures below or in excess of manufacturers' recommendations can cause significant damage to a pressure gauge. Operating and maximum temperature ratings of the system should be verified. Manufacturers' specifications for both maximum ambient temperature and maximum media temperature should be consulted to ensure the pressure gauge is not exposed to temperature beyond maximum ratings. Temperature reduction can be achieved by using devices such as a siphon, capillary, cooling tower or other device.
Wetted Parts Compatibility
Wetted parts compatibility is another common misapplication. A corrosive process media may not have a negative effect on thicker walled components of a system (such as piping and valves). However, a pressure gauge's internals must be responsive to pressure. The wall thickness of pressure gauge internals is thinner than many system components and more susceptible to eventual leakage as a result of exposure to even mildly corrosive process media.
To verify no corrosion takes place, a chemical compatibility chart should be used. Refer to the wetted parts of the pressure gauge and process media in question. If compatibility charts indicate less than the highest rating possible (usually "A"), another wetted part with the highest resistance to the process media should be selected. Typically, pressure gauges are only manufactured with a choice of three wetted parts. These options are generally Copper Alloy, 316 Stainless Steel and Monel. If different wetted parts (such as exotic metals or polymers) are required, this can be accomplished through the use of a diaphragm or chemical seal. A diaphragm or chemical seal is a device that isolates the gauge internals from the process media.
If a gauge is installed in steam service, regardless of its wetted parts, a steam siphon should always be installed before the gauge to prevent damage to the gauge internals. In addition, any gauges intended for use on oxygen service should be cleaned for oxygen service according to appropriate standards and clearly and permanently labeled.
Vibration
If vibration is present in the application, remote mounting via capillary may be advised. If this is not possible or undesirable, a liquid-filled case can be used to dampen vibration of needle and lubricate internals. Always verify gauge fill is compatible with process media in case of accidental contact.
Pulsation, Pressure Spikes and Pressure Cycling
If pulsation or frequent pressure cycling is present in the application, proper pressure range selection should first be verified. Pressure spikes can be detected by using a gauge with a maximum pressure pointer. This is a pressure gauge with an auxiliary pointer, pulled by the main pointer, which when left on a system over a period of time will provide an indication of the maximum pressure displayed during that time. Alternatively, a digital gauge with a data logging capability may be used.
Many types of dampening devices are available that can help slow the effects of pulsation and cycling. These devices include, but are not limited to, reduced orifices, filter-type pressure snubbers, piston type snubbers and adjustable snubbers. While these devices cannot prevent a pulsation or pressure spikes altogether, they can reduce the effects of these conditions and extend gauge life significantly.
Installation
Damage as a result of installation is common. Pressure gauges should always be installed using a wrench on the socket. It is important never to install a pressure gauge by hand or by turning the case.
Conclusion
The above factors are among some of the first to examine when troubleshooting or installing a new pressure gauge. However, many of these factors are often among the most overlooked. Examining these basic factors is a good place to start for troubleshooting and increasing pressure gauge longevity. However, this is not a comprehensive guide and is for reference only. ASME B40.1 standards should always be consulted before the maintenance or installation of any pressure gauge.