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 this is of gauge pressure and absolute pressure. The difference between the two measurements is then explained relatively simply and thus also the choice of the appropriate measurement.
Definition of absolute pressure
Absolute pressure is a pressure that is in accordance with the zero pressure in the empty, air-free space of the universe. This reference pressure is the ideal or absolute vacuum. It really is denoted with the subscript ?abs?: Pabs.
Definition of gauge pressure
The gauge pressure means the difference between an absolute pressure (Pabs) and the prevailing atmospheric pressure (Pamb). It is denoted with the subscript ?e?: Pe and is calculated the following: 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 existing ambient pressure that is measured. However, this pressure changes with the weather and the height above sea level. An absolute pressure measurement measures the difference from the ideal or absolute vacuum. Because of this , this measurement is independent of environmental influences such as weather or altitude. Which measurement is now the right one?
In practice, the two measurements can be differentiated as follows: normally, the measuring task is to determine the gauge pressure. This is why this kind of sensor is most widely used. However, if a gauge pressure sensor is used in an application in which the actual measuring task would be to gauge the absolute pressure, the following additional errors must be expected:
+/- 30 mbar due to changes in weather
around 200 mbar when changing the positioning (e.g. from sea level to 2,000 m)
Depending on the measuring range, these errors could be substantial (e.g. in pneumatics at a measuring selection of 1 bar) or negligible (in hydraulics at 400 bar).
Note
When Polarizing are uncertain whether your measuring task needs a complete pressure or gauge pressure measurement, simply contact us ? we?ll be glad to assist you.g

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