Standard pressure gauges and thermometers generally cope with ambient temperatures down to -40 �C. But what must be the top features of a mechanical measuring instrument that works perfectly well in polar climates with even lower temperatures? This can be explained using the WIKA POLARgauge� as an example. The product family has been designed designed for measurement at extremely low ambient temperatures right down to -70 �C. The instruments are mainly utilized in crude oil and natural gas processing; for instance, in the local pressure and temperature tabs on pumping stations and pipelines.
Minus 40 �C ? this value is frequently exceeded faster than one thinks. This is demonstrated with a look to Russia. There, tables with standard temperature values even indicate more than -60 �C for a few regions. For mechanical instruments which is operated in such ambient conditions, two critical points should be observed:
For pressure measurement at extremely low ambient temperatures only available with filled case: The WIKA pressure gauge model PG23LT.
1. The case filling
A measurement at extremely low ambient temperatures requires filled-filled measuring instruments. The liquids useful for this protect the instrument from condensation formation within the case resulting from temperature fluctuations. They thus prevent the window from frosting, so the measured value can be read safely.
However, nearly all silicone oils useful for this purpose begin to solidify at temperatures below -40 �C. Stunning , or can even freeze. Application-aligned monitoring of the parameters (e.g. process pressure) can no longer be ensured.
Therefore, for the POLARgauge� series a special low-temperature silicone oil has been specified. This oil remains in a state that allows correct measurement and measured value display, even at -70 �C.
The case of the POLARgauge� model PG23LT (r.) compared to a standard version (l.): It has no elastomers.
2. The elastomers
Elastomers are found in every mechanical pressure gauges or thermometers. They offer a secure sealing between your individual components. At length, these are the flat gasket at the window, sufficient reason for pressure gauges and also the blow-out device on the trunk of the case and the vent valve for pressure compensation.
However, the sealing materials found in standard designs cannot durably withstand very low ambient temperatures. They become brittle over time and lose their sealing properties. This results in the event filling escaping. This, subsequently, leads to the forming of condensation and the frosting of the window.
Therefore, in the development of the POLARgauge� series, elastomers have been eliminated in all critical points. The seal between the window and case is constructed of a special material. It really is adapted to extremely low ambient temperatures. The vent valve includes a stainless steel cap.
Summary of the WIKA POLARgauge� series
Note
You can get more info on the POLARgauge� series on the WIKA website via the following links. The product family currently comprises four instrument types: The Bourdon tube pressure gauge model PG23LT, the differential pressure gauge models 733.51, 733.31 (filled versions of the models 732.51, 732.31), the bimetal thermometer model 55 and the gas-actuated thermometer model 73. Thus, the right variant is available for almost any application. Do you want to buy differential pressure gauge models? In our WIKA online-shop you will discover a few of our standard designs. If you have any further questions, your contact will gladly help you.