IntermediateTopic 48 of 105Thermodynamics & Fluids
Manometers and pressure measurement
Use fluid column heights to measure pressure differences.
In depth
U-tube manometers measure pressure differences by fluid column heights, ΔP=ρgΔh, with water, mercury or oil. Barometers measure atmospheric pressure. Bourdon gauges, diaphragm transducers and piezoresistive sensors are used for industrial measurement.
Key points
- Multi-fluid manometer equation
- Inclined tube for sensitivity
- Sensor accuracy
ExampleA 100 mm mercury difference equals 13.3 kPa.
What is Manometers and pressure measurement?
Use fluid column heights to measure pressure differences.
Why is it important to understand manometers and pressure measurement?
Manometers measure pressure differences using fluid columns, which is a simple method used in labs and in duct and pipe testing.
What is a manometer?
A U-shaped tube filled with liquid, where the height difference gives the pressure difference between its two ends.
What liquid is used in a manometer?
Water for low pressures, and mercury or special oils for higher pressures or more sensitive readings.
How is Manometers and pressure measurement used in practice?
Typical applications include measuring the pressure drop across an orifice plate with a U-tube manometer, reading the draft in a chimney with an inclined manometer and checking the pressure of a gas line during commissioning.
What should I learn before Manometers and pressure measurement?
Study "Fluid statics" first (topic 47 of 105 in Thermodynamics & Fluids). It covers the groundwork this topic builds on.
What are the key points of Manometers and pressure measurement?
Multi-fluid manometer equation. Inclined tube for sensitivity. Sensor accuracy.
Can you give an example of Manometers and pressure measurement?
A 100 mm mercury difference equals 13.3 kPa.
What comes after Manometers and pressure measurement?
The next topic is "Buoyancy", which builds directly on this one.
How difficult is Manometers and pressure measurement?
It is classed as Intermediate in Thermodynamics & Fluids (topic 48 of 105). It is an intermediate topic. Work through the beginner topics in Thermodynamics & Fluids first.