Blog

Pressure switches that are used for industrial applications involving any kind of liquid, such as water, oil or chemicals - or processes that have a risk of explosion - must meet specific standards. Choosing the wrong type of instrument for these challenging conditions can be dangerous for your operation and your people. As a territory manager for Ashcroft, customers often ask me to explain the difference between a NEMA 4/4X pressure switch and a NEMA 7/9. The short answer is that one classification is watertight (NEMA 4/4x) and one is explosion-proof (NEMA 7/9). But that response doesn't tell you what you need to know about these instruments before selecting the best switch for your specific needs. Read this article to learn the differences between these types of switches and how each is designed for a specific purpose. When you're done reading, you will have a clear understanding of the pressure switches, features and ratings to look for when choosing the best instrument for your application. You can also deepen your knowledge by clicking on any of the related links to additional resources.

Ensuring the reliability and safety of pressure measurement instruments is important in any application, especially when you are dealing with challenging environmental conditions. Rating systems including the Ingress Protection (IP) and National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) were created to level the playing field for manufacturers by providing a standardized measure of an instrument's ability to withstand environmental challenges. Understanding these rating systems can help you select the right equipment for your operational needs, ensuring instrument durability and safety. With close to two centuries of experience as a global leader in pressure and temperature instrumentation, Ashcroft can help you understand why these ratings are important and what to look for when selecting pressure instruments for certain applications. When you're done reading, we will also share additional information that can help guide your selection process.