Definition of

Vacuum gauge

Pressure gauge

It is usually indicated that vacuum gauges measure vacuum.

An instrument that allows measuring pressure when it is lower than the pressure of the atmosphere is called a vacuum gauge . That is why it is said that vacuum gauges measure vacuum .

Let us remember that atmospheric pressure or pressure of the atmosphere reflects the force per unit area exerted by the air on the planetary surface. It is a physical magnitude that indicates how the force is projected perpendicularly for each unit of surface area.

In various industrial sectors and in the field of research , work is usually done in vacuum conditions. For this, a vacuum gauge is needed to help measure and control the values.

How a vacuum gauge works

Vacuum gauges have sensors that can measure pressure with great accuracy regardless of the type of gas. These devices are also notable for their stability and reduced temperature dependence.

Specifically, what a vacuum gauge does is measure how the pressure drops in a certain environment. Engines , for example, function as compressors , since they suck in and compress gases. When a leak occurs, performance drops. That's why it's important to ensure there are no leaks: to maintain performance. The vacuum gauge, with its measurements, reflects any leaks.

Engine

Vacuum gauges are useful on many engines.

Different classes

It is important to mention that there are different types of vacuum gauges . There are vacuum gauges that are connected to a pressure gauge to synchronize the butterflies when the engine has several carburetors. Other vacuum gauges are U-shaped pressure gauges that are attached to a container that has a complete vacuum.

Many and varied, as we have mentioned, are the types of vacuum gauges that exist. However, it must be emphasized that among the most relevant is the so-called McLeod vacuum gauge . From it, we can highlight the following signs of identity:

-It was created in the second half of the 18th century, specifically in 1784, by the scientist Herbert G. McLeod.

-It is characterized because it is very precise when it comes to being able to “calculate” pressures lower than what would be the pressure of the atmosphere.

-It works by compressing the relevant gas sample with mercury.

Uses of vacuum gauges

Nowadays we cannot ignore that absolute vacuum gauges are used to carry out a long list of functions. Specifically, among the most frequent are the annealing of certain materials, surface analysis, vacuum drying of different foods, the creation of semiconductor elements, the drying of insulating paper, electronic deposition, electron emission welding, evaporative coating…

In motor workshops, we come across the fact that the vacuum gauge becomes a fundamental piece of the daily work of its professionals. And thanks to this device they can detect problematic situations that can cause difficulties for vehicle drivers. Specifically, when they detect that there is an irregular vacuum, they report that it can lead to unstable idling, sudden engine stops, increased fuel consumption...