Again and again, we have been asked the question concerning the difference between an absolute pressure measurement and a gauge pressure measurement. To answer this question it helps to look at the definition of gauge pressure and absolute pressure. The difference between your two measurements is then explained relatively simply and thus also the choice of the correct measurement.
Definition of absolute pressure
Absolute pressure is really a pressure that is in accordance with the zero pressure in the empty, air-free space of the universe. This reference pressure may be the ideal or absolute vacuum. It is denoted with the subscript ?abs?: Pabs.
Definition of gauge pressure
The gauge pressure means the difference between a complete pressure (Pabs) and the prevailing atmospheric pressure (Pamb). It is denoted with the subscript ?e?: Pe and is calculated as follows: Pe = Pabs ? Pamb.
Absolute vs gauge pressure measurement
The difference between the two measurements is relatively easily clarified: in a gauge pressure measurement, it is usually the difference from the current ambient pressure that’s measured. However, this pressure changes with the elements and the height above sea level. A complete pressure measurement measures the difference from the perfect or absolute vacuum. This is why this measurement is independent of environmental influences such as for example weather or altitude. Which Unhurried is now the right one?
In practice, the two measurements could be differentiated the following: usually, the measuring task is to determine the gauge pressure. That is why this kind of sensor is most widely used. However, in case a gauge pressure sensor is used in an application in which the actual measuring task is to gauge the absolute pressure, the following additional errors must be expected:
+/- 30 mbar due to changes in weather
up to 200 mbar when changing the positioning (e.g. from sea level to 2,000 m)
With regards to the measuring range, these errors can be substantial (e.g. in pneumatics at a measuring selection of 1 bar) or negligible (in hydraulics at 400 bar).
Note
In case you are uncertain whether your measuring task needs an absolute pressure or gauge pressure measurement, simply e mail us ? we?ll be glad to work with you.