A 4-20 mA analog output is a universally recognized industry standard for relaying electrical signals (as currents) over long distances. For example, many sensing instruments such as pressure transmitters and transducers use a 4-20 mA output as a simple and reliable method to convey information from the field to a system control room. If you want to learn more about this type of output, and the benefits of the 2-wire connection option vs. a 3-wire option, you've come to the right place. I have been a product leader at Ashcroft for almost two decades and have extensive experience in pressure and temperature measurement. During that time, I've been asked a lot of questions about how things work and the benefits of selecting one measurement device over another. We created our Understanding the Basics series to give those who are new to the industry a framework of information to use as a valuable point of reference when needed. In this article, you will learn about 4-20 mA analog outputs, including where they are used, how they work, and the advantages and challenges of using the 2-wire vs. a 3-wire in your application. When you're finished, you'll know if this type of output is right for you.

Whether you are measuring low-pressure airflow in a critical environment, high-pressure mobile hydraulics in OEM applications, or even ultra-high purity gases in semiconductor manufacturing, you are likely relying on a pressure transducer to keep your system running safely and efficiently. In each of these instances, the challenge is selecting the best transducer for the specific application, especially when there are so many options available to you. Ashcroft and its parent company Nagano Keiki Co. LTD have a proven track record of reliability and excellence in pressure measurement instrumentation. All the sensing technologies discussed in this article have been designed and manufactured by Ashcroft along with Nagano Keiki, allowing us to control the performance, cost and lead time of our pressure sensors. Read this article to learn what sets Ashcroft pressure transducers apart from the competition and why our company is the best choice for customers in many industries around the globe. You will also gain access to other valuable insights and resources to enhance your understanding of these instruments and their functionality. When you are done reading this article, you will be in a better position to take the next step in your purchasing decision.

If your job involves the risk of a fire or explosion due to an explosive element that is present, you work in a hazardous location. These environments require strict adherence to safety protocols and regulations to protect both personnel and equipment. Even a small incident in these environments could lead to costly downtime or worse. Ashcroft is a trusted brand of pressure and temperature instrumentation that can be found in countless hazardous locations across the globe. We have a tremendous amount of experience in developing products that are built to ensure smooth operations and the safety of your team. In this Understanding the Basics article, you will learn more about hazardous locations, the organizations and standards that govern them, code enforcing authorities, how to prevent explosions and more. Throughout the article, you will also find helpful links and additional resources where you can gain additional knowledge about products and best practices.

In another Ashcroft® Understanding the Basics article titled, What is a Pressure Gauge? you learn that manufacturers of pressure gauges must follow certain global standards to ensure all of these instruments function the same way. The standards that we are referring to are ASME B40.100 and EN 837-1. As a global leader in pressure instrumentation, Ashcroft is often asked which of these manufacturing standards we follow for our pressure gauges. The answer is both, and the reason is simple. This article will provide you with a brief overview of ASME B40.100 and EN 837-1 standards, what they cover, their similarities and their differences. Whether you are new to the world of pressure gauges, or you are looking for a quick refresher on the subject, you will gain a deeper understanding of these global standards after reading this piece. You will also find additional resources that may interest you when you are ready to go beyond the basics of pressure gauges.

In the chemical and petrochemical industry, measuring and monitoring pressure is critical to ensuring your operation runs safely and efficiently. Inaccurate pressure measurements can have serious consequences, including employee injury, equipment loss, environmental issues and costly downtime. That’s why it is essential to use instruments engineered to withstand the severe demands of chemical processing operations. Ashcroft has been making accurate and reliable pressure and temperature measurement instruments for more than 170 years. During that time, we have seen how pressure gauges perform in the most demanding conditions and have become an industry authority across the globe. In this article, you will learn about the unique challenges pressure gauges encounter in chemical and petrochemical operations and gain a better understanding of how to ensure your gauge is safe to use in these demanding applications. When you are done reading, you will have access to additional articles and resources to deepen your knowledge even further.

This article is based on a white paper written by John Carissimi and Jeremy Payne in 2015 and rewritten on May 6, 2024. Sour gas and crude oil operations involve harsh conditions with a high risk of corrosion. Metals and alloys used in environments with hydrogen sulfide (H2S) are especially prone to corrosion and stress cracking, which can lead to material failure and dangerous fluid leaks in your system. To enhance safety and prevent equipment failures, the National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE) established control standards for any instrumentation used in these types of applications. As the Product Marketing Leader for process gauges at Ashcroft, a global leader in pressure and temperature instrumentation, I have spent the past 15 years answering questions and guiding customers on the importance of ensuring compatibility between your instruments and process media. In this article, you will get an overview of the NACE standards that specifically address corrosion that can occur with exposure to sour gas or sour crude. You will also learn what to look for when selecting pressure and temperature instruments for your sour gas and crude applications. When you are done reading, you will be able to access additional resources to help make informed decisions about selecting instrumentation for corrosive operations.