Oil Pressure Gauge – Types and How to Select One

One of the most important indicators of the overall well-being of an engine is an oil pressure gauge. Consider it as an early warning system that gives you a notice in advance of any issues, so you can prevent yourself from incurring an expensive breakdown. Gauges of brands like aem come with an easy-to-read LED display that can help the driver become alert of any unfavourable operating conditions.

What Is Oil Pressure

Oil pressure is formed when the oil pump pushes the oil through the engine, forcing it quickly and consequently pressurising it. You can understand it by thinking about holding one finger of yours over the end of a garden hose. The smaller opening that your finger creates pressurizes or forces the water that is flowing through the hose. Suddenly, water is erupting high above the fence of your neighbour. Likewise, your car’s engine will lose all its oil pressure if the pump slackens. It can also lose pressure if the inside of the engine has worn out.

Types of Pressure Gauges

In today’s modern world, the make and build of pressure gauges are undergoing constant evolution. There are two main classes of pressure gauges that are becoming widely common. They are digital pressure gauges and mechanical pressure gauges.

Digital pressure gauge

It is suitable for precise and speedy pressure reading. Digital pressure gauges, like those by the brand aem is appropriate for fuel injected and carbureted motors. They give a 0 to 5v analog output for use with data loggers and any engine management system.

A digital gauge has robust electronics to ensure longevity and accurate readings. These types of gauges can either use battery power or loop power. You can find them being made from stainless steel or aluminium. A calibrated digital pressure gauge remains calibrated. This digital calibration happens with the use of the software. You can add or eliminate features in these kinds of gauges. Some of them have a bright backlight that enables clear and easy reading.

Mechanical pressure gauge

The other type of gauge is that which works on bourdon tubes principles. These types of mechanical bourdon tube gauges don’t need any external power supply. You can find them at critical process monitoring and safety units in energy industries.

Bourdon tube refers to tubes that are radially formed, consisting of an oval cross-section. The pressure of the measuring medium works on the interior of the tube. It generates a motion in the tube’s non-clamped end. This motion is known as the measure of the pressure and is shown through the movement.

The Bourdon tubes that are C-shaped are formed at an angle of 250 degrees. People can employ them for pressures ranging up to 60 bars.

Which Gauge is Right for You?

A pressure gauge measures the level of pressure inside a container that stores liquid, gas, solid material, or vapour and ensures optimum safety and performance. Given below are some questions that you can ask yourself:

• What kind of accuracy do you need?
• What is your budget?
• What kind of output do you require?
• Where are you going to install the gauge?

Suppose you desire an accuracy of 1.0 per cent and more and have a static application. In that case, a mechanical gauge will be the right choice. But if you want a more precise and accurate reading, and some extra programmable functions, then go for a digital one. Remember to examine your needs and accordingly choose one.