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When protecting your pressure instruments from harsh process conditions, isolators such as diaphragm seals or isolation rings are essential. They are designed to effectively protect pressure gauges, switches and transmitters from corrosive media, particulates, pulsations and extreme conditions. However, the effectiveness of these assemblies relies heavily on one important factor: proper filling. That’s where the challenge comes in. At Ashcroft, we’re often asked whether it’s acceptable to add fill fluid to a diaphragm seal or isolation ring in the field. On the surface, it may sound like a quick fix for a leaking or underfilled assembly. But in reality, attempting to add fluid outside of a controlled process may be problematic. Read this article to understand the science behind why isolator fills matter, why field filling may add risk and what you can do to keep your instruments reliable. By the time you finish reading, you’ll know why field filling is risky and the steps you can take to get accurate, safe readings that last for years.

Before you install a piping system for a new plant construction project or an existing plant expansion, it is important to conduct a hydrostatic test on the piping system. This test pressurizes the piping system and may expose instruments such as pressure indicators, switches and transmitters to pressures that exceed their capacity. At Ashcroft – a leading authority in pressure and temperature instrumentation – we are often asked by customers what they can do to prevent their instruments from getting damaged in over-pressure applications. Read this article to learn about 5 common strategies that we recommend to keep your instruments protected during the testing process. When you are done reading, you will be able to decide which approach is best for your specific needs. You will also be given additional resources that address other common questions we receive about keeping systems running safely and efficiently.