Pressure transmitters and pressure transducers are both used to measure and convert pressure into an electrical signal, but they have distinct differences in their functionality, output signal, and application.
1. Definition and Function
| Feature | Pressure Transducer | Pressure Transmitter |
| Definition | A device that converts applied pressure into an electrical signal (typically mV, mA, or V). | A pressure transducer with built-in signal conditioning to output a standardized signal (e.g., 4-20 mA or digital communication). |
| Working Principle | Uses a sensing element (strain gauge, capacitive, or piezoelectric) to convert pressure into an electrical signal. | Similar to a transducer but includes additional signal processing, temperature compensation, and robust output transmission. |
| Output Signal | Low-level signals: millivolts (mV), volts (V), or resistance. | High-level signals: 4-20 mA, 0-10V, MODBUS, HART, etc. |
| Signal Conditioning | Requires an external amplifier to boost and process the signal. | Has built-in amplification and compensation for noise, temperature drift, and signal stability. |
| Distance of Signal Transmission | Short distances (due to low-level output). | Long distances (can send signals over long cables without significant losses). |
2. Applications
| Industry | Pressure Transducer | Pressure Transmitter |
| Industrial Automation | Used in control systems where an external amplifier is available. | Used for real-time monitoring and control over long distances. |
| Automotive | Used in engine performance monitoring, fuel injection systems, and braking systems. | Less common in automotive due to bulkier design. |
| Medical | Applied in blood pressure monitoring, ventilators, and infusion pumps. | Used in medical gas systems and hospital central monitoring. |
| Oil & Gas | Suitable for measuring wellbore or pipeline pressure with short-range transmission. | Used in hazardous environments for remote monitoring and long-distance transmission. |
| HVAC & Building Systems | Measures duct and air conditioning pressure. | Transmits pressure data over long distances to control systems. |
3. Advantages and Limitations
| Feature | Pressure Transducer | Pressure Transmitter |
| Accuracy | High, but dependent on external signal processing. | High, with built-in compensation for temperature drift and non-linearity. |
| Ease of Use | Requires an external amplifier or signal conditioner. | Ready to use with standardized output. |
| Environmental Resistance | May be more sensitive to electrical noise and interference. | Designed for harsh environments with robust enclosures (e.g., IP67/IP68-rated). |
| Cost | Generally lower due to the lack of integrated electronics. | Higher due to built-in signal conditioning and processing. |
4. Example: Pondus Instruments Products
Pondus Instruments provides both pressure transducers and transmitters for various applications:
- Pressure Transducers:
- PT03 Series – Compact and cost-effective with digital output via MODBUS communication.
- Pressure Transmitters:
- PT600 Series – High-accuracy digital transmitters for gauge, differential pressure, and level measurement, with HART/MODBUS output for industrial applications.
- PT06RS-TBM Sensor – Designed for tunneling applications with IP68 water resistance and vibration resistance.
5. Which One Should You Choose?
- If you need a basic sensor with low-power output and can process the signal externally → Choose a pressure transducer.
- If you require a complete solution with built-in signal conditioning and long-distance communication → Choose a pressure transmitter.
Would you like help selecting the right product for your application? Contact Pondus Instruments for expert guidance!
