If you work in an industry that relies on pressure switches or temperature switches you know that these small devices play a big role in making sure your applications run smoothly and efficiently. But at what price? The short answer is between $50 - $1500. Not helpful, I know. But, if you Google how much these instruments cost, you will be hard-pressed to find an accurate answer. The reason is simple. There are so many factors that go into the price of a switch, it’s nearly impossible to provide any kind of estimate without knowing your specific requirements. As a product manager for industrial switches at Ashcroft – a recognized global leader in temperature and pressure instrumentation - I can help you get closer to a more precise answer. However, keep in mind, this topic covers a lot of ground. So, for the purposes of this article, we will focus on pressure and temperature switches used in industrial applications. When you’re done reading, you will be able to validate the price range you are currently paying. You will also know what to expect if you are searching for a new supplier. Finally, you will be more prepared to make a pressure switch or temperature switch purchasing decision, whether you work with Ashcroft or not.

If your business currently depends on fossil fuel, you may be thinking about transitioning to a cleaner energy solution like hydrogen because it has less impact on the environment. While hydrogen may be a great solution for electric trucks, cars, buses and materials handling equipment, it is important to understand the unique standards and safety requirements for the production and transportation of this highly combustible substance. Temperature sensors used in hydrogen applications must adhere to rigid standards to maintain a safe working environment. For decades, Ashcroft has been offering a wide range of temperature sensors to clients in a variety of fields, including hydrogen fuel production. Using the knowledge we have gained, we are able to guide customers to the best solution for their needs. In this article, we’ll touch on the advantages of hydrogen energy, its risks and challenges, and some real-world examples of how sensors are used in hydrogen environments.

If you are an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) looking to optimize cost and streamline installation processes, you’ll want to learn more about ratiometric (RM) output pressure transducers. These highly efficient and cost-effective solutions are engineered to accommodate a wide range of applications, such as off-highway vehicles (OHV), motorsports, and mobile hydraulic systems. I recently published a blog that reviewed three key factors to consider when selecting an OEM pressure transducer: reliability, durability, and repeatability. Ratiometric output transducers incorporate all three factors and more. In this article, you will learn how these pressure measurement instruments can help you achieve cost savings while ensuring seamless integration and enhanced performance in demanding environments.

If you read my article, “Why and When is RTD Calibration Necessary?” you learned how Resistance Temperature Detectors (RTDs) such as our S81 and S50 are a better choice than thermocouples for temperature process measurement because of their repeatable, high-accuracy measurement capabilities. More specifically, RTDs are ideal for demanding applications like chemical and refining processes that depend on precise temperature measurements. But to really understand RTD calibration, you also need to know how an RTD works. When I joined Ashcroft — a leader of temperature and pressure instrument solutions across the globe— I brought more than 20 years of temperature application experience with me, and I am happy to share my knowledge with you. In the following article, you learn more about how RTDs work, the different levels of accuracy in RTD calibration and the national and international standards that they are measured against. You will also be directed to additional resources and contact information in case you are ready to take the next step in your decision to select the best temperature measurement solution for your specific application.

If you are an industrial instrument designer, you have several temperature measurement options available to you. These include Infrared, Bi-Metal, Gas-actuated thermometers, Thermistors, Thermocouples and RTDs. Industrial automation and process applications predominantly use thermocouples and Resistance Temperature Detectors (RTDs) instrumentation such as our S81 and S50 because of their proven ability to provide accurate and reliable readings. Each of these sensors has unique advantages and can be configured to match the application needs for optimum service life and performance. Based on my experience working with instrumentation and reliability teams, I’ve seen and compared the benefits of both options. Thermocouples, for example, are often chosen for a robust signal, cost-effective price and ability to withstand most process plant specifications, including harsh vibration and high-temperature range up to 2300° C. RTDs, on the other hand, are the top choice for applications demanding higher accuracy levels and minimal drift. In this article, you will learn more about the benefits of RTDs and why RTD calibration is important to maintain highly accurate and repeatable readings for a longer life span.

If you work in an industry that involves hydrogen, or other volatile substances, you understand the dangers that you and your team face daily. But do you know that any equipment used in these environments (aka hazardous locations) must meet certain requirements and be designed to help contain or prevent a fire or explosion from occurring in the first place? For example, certain pressure sensors like the E2F Flameproof and E2S Intrinsically Safe pressure transducers are built to withstand or prevent explosions and fires in hazardous locations. This makes them effective options for managing pressure in complex industrial applications. Ashcroft is a recognized leader in pressure and temperature instrumentation and has been for more than a century and a half. In my role as product leader, I am familiar with the complex nature of hydrogen and have been educating customers on how to select the best sensors to meet the stringent quality and safety requirements for highly combustible environments. This article will explain the factors and classifications of a hazardous location, the product certifications that are required for use in these environments and the solutions available to help keep you and your team safe. When you are done reading this article, you will have a better understanding of what type of pressure transducer you will need for your application and be ready to take the next step in your purchasing decision.