What is a pressure gauge system?

A pressure gauge system is a system that monitors pressure safely, reliably, and with serviceability in mind. The system includes a gauge, snubber, block and bleed manifold, and an isolation valve. Provided below are definitions of each of the system’s components.

• Gauge: Pressure gauges are devices used to measure the pressure of a gas or liquid within a system. Furthermore, if more information is needed regarding pressure gauges click this link.
• Snubber: A pressure snubber is a device used to protect pressure gauges, sensors, and transmitters. Additionally, if more information is needed regarding pressure snubbers click this link.
• Block and Bleed Manifold: Block and bleed manifolds are a type of valve arrangement used primarily in instrumentation systems to isolate and vent parts of a process for maintenance, calibration, or safety purposes. Moreover, if more information is needed regarding block and bleed manifolds click this link.
• Isolation Valve: Isolation valves are used to facilitate the removal of instruments to ensure maintenance and calibration are done safely. Furthermore, if more information is needed regarding isolation valves click this link.

How do all of the components work together?

Each component has a specific role that helps ensure the system provides accurate measurement and allows for safe operation and maintenance. Put simply, the pressure gauge is the core of the system as it measures the fluid or gas in the process pipe. The second component in the system is the snubber. It is installed between the pressure source and the gauge. The snubber’s role is to dampen or reduce the effects of sudden pressure spikes, vibrations, and/or pulsations that could damage the gauge or lead the gauge to inaccurate readings. Thirdly, the block and bleed manifolds can be added to help isolate the pressure gauge for maintenance or calibration. This is done by venting excess fluid safely to the atmosphere or to a drain. Lastly, an isolation valve may be placed before or after the system to stop flow during maintenance. Thus, a pressure gauge system is very simple.

Where are they used?

They are found in various applications and industries. For instance, they can be found in plumbing, industrial machinery, industrial applications such as steam, liquid, or gas, and HVAC systems.