Resistance Temperature Detectors (RTDs) are electrical temperature sensors used to measure and monitor temperature changes in process applications. These sensors are important for ensuring accurate temperature readings in industries such as manufacturing, aerospace and healthcare, where precise temperature control is essential for safety and efficiency. As part of Ashcroft's Understanding the Basics series, this article will provide you with a high-level review of these instruments, including how they work, how they are constructed, accuracy classes and more. You will also gain insights about when to use (or not to use) this type of sensor and be directed to additional resources that can help you deepen your knowledge on the topic of temperature sensors. This information comes from 40 years of industry experience with temperature and pressure measurement, design, engineering, and product management, which includes 17 years working with Ashcroft - a leader in temperature and pressure instrumentation.

This article was originally published on February 13, 2023, and updated on January 6, 2025. The chemical industry manufactures a wide range of chemical and material products for industries that require durable and reliable measurement and monitoring technology for their production. Accurate and dependable pressure and temperature measurement instruments are necessary to endure harsh chemical environments. However, incorrect use or failure of these instruments can result in serious outcomes such as equipment damage, employee injury, and environmental hazards. These are just a few reasons why it is essential to use instruments engineered to withstand the severe demands of chemical processing operations. Ashcroft is a leader in pressure and temperature instrumentation since 1852. Read this article to learn about the factors to consider when selecting the best instruments for your chemical application. You will also get links to additional information in case you want to learn more.

In a previous Understanding the Basics blog, I provided an overview of temperature sensors, including RTDs and thermocouples. That article explained how they are used to measure the temperature of original equipment manufacturing (OEM) systems, light industrial processes or other complex applications. Since that piece was published, we have received more questions about RTDs and Thermocouples and the lag options you have when ordering these instruments.

Ashcroft, a leader in pressure and temperature instrumentation, understands that you need accurate and reliable pressure gauges to keep your operation running efficiently. We also know the importance of following industry and regulatory standards for safety. However, finding the best solution to meet your unique specifications can be completely overwhelming. We created this article to help simplify the pressure gauge selection process for you and give you confidence in your purchasing decision. When you are done reading, you will know about the primary factors to consider when selecting your pressure gauge and what steps to take in the pressure gauge ordering process.

This article was originally published on June 1, 2021, and updated on December 9, 2024. Hydraulic machinery outperforms nearly all other mechanical power transmission methods in extreme environments. Excavators, tree harvesters, mining trucks, tow trucks, and other hydraulic vehicles handle the toughest tasks on uneven terrains, carrying heavy loads that exert immense forces on hydraulic systems. These operations can cause severe shocks and vibrations, along with significant changes in temperature, dust, and moisture. Additionally, pressure spikes or impulses within hydraulic systems can pose a major challenge to the reliability of internal components like pressure instruments. So, how can you enhance the performance of your mobile hydraulics to withstand these hazards? Pressure control and monitoring devices are essential for managing hydraulic systems and enhancing power, flexibility, speed, and safety. They regulate and monitor hydraulic fluid pressure levels to provide the necessary force to overcome resistance. They also detect unsafe conditions, trigger alarms, or automatically shut down hydraulic pumps to prevent overpressure situations. In my extensive experience in this industry, I have learned how to effectively apply pressure transducers in mobile hydraulics control systems. This article will guide you through the challenges of pressure control and measurement, including shock, vibration, pressure spikes, pulsation, and environmental factors, and show you how to maintain your mobile hydraulic machines in top condition.

This article was originally published on February 28, 2022, and updated on December 4, 2024. Pressure switches are important components in many industrial and OEM applications. By monitoring pressure levels in your system and automatically activating or deactivating equipment when pressure reaches a predetermined setpoint, they help ensure a safe and efficient process. Choosing the wrong pressure switch could lead to actuation errors, damaged equipment, worker injury, or other dangerous issues. So, how do you know if you have the right pressure switch? And what factors should you consider if you need a new one? As the Ashcroft Product Manager for Switches, I’ve developed some best practices for things to consider while you’re researching. Read this article to learn about the primary factors to look for when choosing or replacing a pressure switch. You will also find links to additional information that can deepen your knowledge of pressure switches used in different applications.