Things to Look for in a Pressure Transmitter Manifold

Brian Craig

May 23, 2019

Physical parameters such as pressure and temperature are crucial in some industries such as oil & gas, chemical, wastewater, petroleum, pharmaceutical, and food & beverages. In most of these industries, pressure needs to be monitored, controlled, and maintained continuously or till a certain process stage is over. Hence, pressure transmitters are used in these industries. In most industries, different types of pressures need to be measured and controlled depending upon the requirement. These include differential pressure, gauge pressure, absolute pressure, and so on. Hence, most players prefer to use a pressure transmitter manifold. A manifold is a monolithic device, which can be connected to multiple valves. This enables the user to perform multiple functions in one go with this monolithic device. This post discusses the factors you should consider when buying a pressure transducer manifold and its benefits.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pressure Transmitter Manifold

Things to Look for in a Pressure Transmitter Manifold

Based on the requirement in your industry and the application, you may want to consider the following factors when choosing a pressure transmitter manifold:

System pressure changes and fluctuations: Consider the system in your industrial unit and the pressure fluctuations it undergoes.
Valve design and the number of valves you require: The number of valves would depend upon your industrial process requirement, the types of pressures you need to measure, and the repeatability. The valve design would depend upon parameters you require such as analysis, flow control, testing, and controlling leakage, as well as other safety concerns.
Characteristics of the fluid in question: The physical properties of the fluid also need to be considered. These include the type of fluid, volatility, reactivity, temperature, boiling point, and so on.
Level of accuracy defined by the manufacturer: Most industrial devices undergo rigorous testing in various manufacturing stages. . Similarly, when buying the pressure transmitter manifold, ask the manufacturer about the sample size of the fluid they considered when testing. Also, enquire about the statistical methods used and the number of readings taken. Other parameters such as the pressure range the manifold can operate in, and if it can withstand harsh and reactive fluids will be mentioned on the pack.
Accuracy levels are tested in industrial environments rather than just lab conditions: The accuracy levels of instrument manifolds defined as per the lab conditions may not suffice the harsh environmental conditions the apparatus is subjected to, such as dirt, heat, and so on. This testing must include accuracy levels with respect to other physical parameters such as temperature, humidity, vibration, noise, and so on. So, when buying, you should the manufacturer regarding the testing process details.
Safety features: Inquire about the safety features installed. Check what happens if the pressure goes beyond the defined limit, and what measures need to be taken in such cases. This will ensure the safety of operators, as well as prevent production losses.
Seals for plugged lines: There are several pipelines that run from the main tap to the transmitter. If there are delays in maintenance, there may be sediment collection, which can lead to clogged pipes. Also, if you are located in a cold region, the pipes may get frozen in winters. In these scenarios, a remote seal system, wherein a sensor captures the information from the pressure transmitter helps. These remote seals also help prevent contamination and clean the connection points.

Benefits of a Pressure Transmitter Manifold

A pressure transmitter manifold helps save cost, time, and infrastructure. Aside these, there are some other benefits too:

A manifold is installed as a monolithic device serving multiple functions of pressure measurement and control.
This saves on cost, time, and space.
A manifold considerably reduces the number of joints and connections, thus minimizing the possibility of leaks, as well as wear and tear.
You can customize the layout and fit it in the smallest of spaces.
They can be mounted in various ways as per the requirement.
They help save maintenance costs and ease the flow metering process owing to fewer connections.
This integrated manifold can be used with differential pressure transmitter in various flow meter applications, thus removing the need for a transmitter flange.

Are you looking for a pressure transducer or any other instrument manifold? Ensure you check the features, certifications, and the reputation of the manufacturer as well as supplier. The Transmitter Shop (TTS) has a huge inventory of ready-to-ship transmitters and accessories made by globally-recognized manufacturers and they provide calibration services using SI-traceable units.