Proof and burst pressure are often overlooked on a sensor’s data sheet, and not taking notice of these pressure ranges can lead to sensor failure. Out of the many pressure specifications listed, these two pressure specifications function as an upper limit for the devices operating range. They are both important acts for upper limits, but proof and burst pressures have both similarities and differences.
Selecting the right pressure sensor at the very beginning is the best solution to prevent overpressure. There are many systems that should be designed with both proof and burst pressures in mind, an example of an application where they are crucial measurements is high pulsation environments. Usual areas in industrial applications that face overpressure:
- Mounting positions of sensors on pipe work
- Regulators
- Centrifugal pumps
- Solenoids
- Valves
Proof Pressure
Proof pressure is the maximum pressure that may be applied to a device without changing its performance within the specifications. You may know it as overpressure or ‘over-range capacity’. A sensor will return to its original state and continue operating normally when a sensor is exposed to an overpressure condition that is under the proof pressure limit.
Proof pressure is typically specified as a multiple of the upper limit of the device's range. For example, an overpressure rating of x2 for a 0-100 PSI device means the sensor can recover from an overpressure up to 200 PSI. If this pressure is surpassed, the sensor will not fully recover, resulting in a positive zero shift.
Burst Pressure
Burst pressure is the maximum pressure that can be applied without physically damaging the internal sensing component. It is the maximum pressure the sensor is able to stand just before failure.
After experiencing a pressure above proof, depending on the seriousness of the overpressure condition, re-calibration of the sensor may be required or it might no longer be useable. When this pressure is exceeded, the process fluid will not be contaminated and could potentially leak into the sensor and outside environment. Being aware of the proof and burst pressure ratings of a sensor allows for continuous and safe operations of your equipment and systems.
AXD Industrial Pressure Transmitters
At Boiswood we offer the best range of solutions and technologies at high quality for your systems. This includes Setra’s AXD pressure sensor that is designed for industrial and OEM customers who require reliability and high performance. The AXD has high proof pressure ratings up to 10X and burst pressure ratings up to 100X the rated range. It has a patented overexposure stop designed to prevent the sensor bursting while the diaphragm maintains its shape. Go to our product page for the full list of specifications.
3100/3200 Series Pressure Transmitters
These small package sized transmitters offer an unbeatable price/performance ratio with consistent high levels of accuracy, reliability and stability. Being one of our key sellers, they feature all stainless-steel wetted parts, a broad selection of electrical and pressure connections, and wide choice of electrical outputs to allow stock configurations suitable for most applications without modification. The 3100 and 3200 are perfect solutions for installation where space is lacking. Visit our product page to read more.
Contact us today for more information on our pressure transmitter solutions.