Pressure sensors

A pressure measuring cell is the core measuring element of a pressure sensor. It converts pressure acting on a diaphragm into an electrical signal. This signal can then be processed by electronic circuitry for pressure measurement, monitoring or control.

Metallux piezoresistive pressure measuring cells use resistors arranged in a Wheatstone bridge circuit. When pressure is applied, the diaphragm deforms slightly, causing changes in resistance and generating a pressure-dependent electrical output signal. The Wheatstone bridge is applied using proven thick-film technology.

Metallux develops and manufactures ceramic pressure measuring cells and stainless steel pressure measuring cells for industrial applications, enabling precise pressure monitoring of gases and liquids.

A pressure measuring cell is the actual pressure-sensitive sensing element, whereas a pressure sensor or pressure transmitter typically includes additional components such as a housing, process connection and electronics.

The pressure measuring cell detects pressure and converts it into an electrical signal. It can be integrated directly into a customer's own assembly or custom-designed housing.

Pressure measuring cells are therefore particularly suitable for OEM applications requiring compact designs or application-specific integration.

Pressure measuring cells differ in terms of design, dimensions, pressure range, pressure reference type and output signal. Metallux primarily offers ceramic and stainless steel pressure measuring cells.

For ceramic pressure measuring cells, Metallux typically uses 96% alumina ceramic (Al₂O₃). This robust ceramic material is suitable for precise pressure measurement in a wide range of industrial applications. Stainless steel pressure measuring cells are particularly characterized by their high overpressure resistance, making them suitable for applications involving high pressure loads or requiring the specific material properties of stainless steel.

Depending on the design, monolithic or flush-mounted pressure measuring cells are available for different pressure types and measuring ranges, with various electrical output signals.

Depending on the design, pressure measuring cells can measure gauge pressure, absolute pressure and sealed gauge pressure.

Gauge pressure is measured relative to the current ambient atmospheric pressure.
Absolute pressure is measured relative to a vacuum.
Sealed gauge pressure is measured relative to a defined, sealed reference pressure.

The appropriate pressure measurement type depends on the specific application and environmental conditions.

Metallux offers ceramic pressure measuring cells for pressures ranging from -1 to 600 bar and stainless steel pressure measuring cells for pressures ranging from 10 to 1,000 bar.

Depending on the design, these pressure cells can measure gauge pressure, absolute pressure or sealed gauge pressure.

In a flush-mounted pressure measuring cell, the pressure-sensitive diaphragm is directly exposed to the measured medium, whereas a monolithic pressure measuring cell has a recessed diaphragm due to its design.

Flush-mounted pressure measuring cells are particularly advantageous for viscous, pasty or contaminated media, as well as media prone to deposits or build-up.
The choice of design depends on the medium, hygiene requirements, cleaning procedures and installation conditions.

Depending on the design, pressure measuring cells can provide analog or digital output signals.

Metallux offers pressure measuring cells with analog output signals, including ratiometric output signals ranging from 10% to 90% of the supply voltage, as well as versions with a digital I²C interface.

The appropriate signal type depends on the required signal processing and the specific application requirements.

The media compatibility of a pressure measuring cell primarily depends on the materials that come into contact with the measured medium.

Ceramic pressure measuring cells are suitable for a wide range of liquids and gases and offer high chemical resistance. Stainless steel pressure measuring cells can be used in applications involving acids or hydrogen, for example.

For aggressive or special media, material compatibility should always be verified for the specific application.

Ceramic pressure measuring cells combine a robust design with high chemical resistance, long-term stability and excellent measurement performance.

Ceramic is corrosion-resistant and offers high mechanical strength. Combined with thick-film technology, it enables the production of compact and reliable pressure measuring cells for industrial series applications.

Another advantage is the ability to customize the sensing element and electronics to meet specific application requirements.

The following criteria should be considered when selecting a pressure measuring cell:

Metallux supports customers in selecting the appropriate pressure measuring cell for their application and develops customized solutions.

Yes. Metallux develops and manufactures pressure measuring cells for OEM applications and adapts these products to customer-specific requirements.

The pressure range, electrical characteristics, output signal, design and other product parameters can be tailored to the requirements of the application.