Pressure sensors are an essential part of many industries.
The global pressure sensor market is expected to reach USD 26.3 billion by 2030.
The market growth is primarily driven by the growing demand for pressure sensors in various industries, including automotive, healthcare, aerospace, and consumer electronics. Moreover, advancements in wireless sensor technology, IoT solutions, and the increasing adoption of Industry 4.0 are expected to drive market growth in the coming years further.
Pressure sensors provide accurate and reliable measurements used in many applications such as process monitoring and control, leak detection, and ensuring the safe operation of equipment. Pressure sensors play an important role in maintaining operational efficiency and ensuring safety. In this context, it is important to understand what is pressure sensor and the basics of pressure sensors, to make informed decisions about their types, working principles, and applications in different fields.
Do you have a project that requires measuring pressure? If so, you’ve come to the right place! We’ll look at the different type of pressure sensors available and how they can be used for your applications.
Here’s a summary of what you’ll find on this page about pressure sensors:
Let’s dive in!
Introduction to Pressure Sensor
What is a Pressure Sensor?
A pressure sensor is a measuring element that measures the amount of pressure applied to it.
It works by converting the pressure applied to it into an electrical signal that can then be used to monitor, control, or record the pressure. A pressure sensor is an indispensable tool in any environment that requires precise and accurate measurement of pressure.
There are different types of pressure sensors including piezoresistive, capacitive, piezoelectric, and optical sensors, each using different principles to convert pressure into an electrical signal. Some sensors for pressure are designed to measure absolute pressure, while others measure gauge or differential pressure. The choice of pressure sensor depends on the specific application and the requirements for accuracy, sensitivity, and reliability.
The pressure sensor function is used in a wide variety of fields, including medical devices, automotive, consumer electronics, home applications, and industrial control systems. A pressure sensor with real-time monitoring capabilities can help ensure operations are always running as safely and efficiently as possible.
How Does a Sensor Measure Pressure?
Pressure sensors have several methods of measuring pressure, but the most common method is through the use of a diaphragm or membrane that deforms in response to the applied pressure. Deformation of the diaphragm or membrane creates mechanical stress, which is then converted into an electronic signal that can be read by an electronic circuit.
Piezoresistive pressure sensors use diaphragms made of materials that are sensitive to pressure changes such as silicon. The diaphragm is covered with a piezoresistive material that changes its electrical resistance according to the amount of applied stress. When the pressure changes, the resistance of the material changes, and this change in resistance is measured to determine the pressure.
Piezoelectric pressure sensors use a diaphragm made of a piezoelectric material, such as quartz. When pressure is applied to the diaphragm, it produces a charge that is proportional to the amount of pressure. This charge can be measured and used to determine the pressure.
Capacitive pressure sensors use a diaphragm that is part of a capacitor. When pressure is applied to the diaphragm, the distance between the capacitor plates changes, and thus the capacitance changes. The change in capacitance is measured and used to determine the pressure.
Strain gauge pressure sensors use a diaphragm that deforms when pressure is applied. The diaphragm is bonded to a strain gauge, which is a device that changes its electrical resistance in response to deformation. The change in resistance is measured and used to determine the pressure.
Optical pressure sensors use the principle of light reflection or refraction to measure pressure. These sensors use a diaphragm that deforms under pressure, causing a change in the optical properties of the material. This change in optical properties is measured and converted into an electrical signal.
There are many other types and variations that are used for specific applications. Regardless of the type of pressure sensor the output signal is usually amplified and processed by electronic circuits to obtain an accurate voltage measurement applied to the sensor.
Type of Pressure Sensors and Measurement Methods
What Are the Types of Pressure Sensors?
Here are several types of pressure sensors, including:
- Piezoresistive pressure sensors
- Piezoelectric pressure sensors
- Capacitive pressure sensors
- Strain gauge pressure sensors
- Optical pressure sensors
Pressure Sensor Working Principle
Piezoresistive pressure sensors: Work by measuring the change in resistance of a piezoresistive material when it is subjected to pressure. These sensors are widely used in automotive and industrial applications for measuring pressure and are also commonly used in medical equipment.
Piezoelectric pressure sensors: Work by using the piezoelectric effect to measure pressure by detecting the voltage produced when a piezoelectric material is subjected to pressure. They are commonly used in a variety of applications, including automotive, aerospace, and medical.
Capacitive pressure sensors: Work by measuring pressure by detecting the change in capacitance between two plates or electrodes as pressure is applied. These sensors are commonly used in consumer electronics and aerospace applications.
Strain gauge pressure sensors: Work by measuring pressure by detecting the deformation (strain) of a metallic or semiconductor element when subjected to pressure. These sensors are widely used in industrial and aerospace applications, as they are able to provide high-accuracy measurements of pressure.
Optical pressure sensors: Work by using the change in the refractive index of a material when subjected to pressure to measure pressure. These sensors are commonly used in medical and scientific applications, as they are able to provide accurate measurements without coming into contact with the fluid being measured.
Each type of pressure sensor has its own advantages and disadvantages and the choice of the sensor will depend on the specific requirements of the application including factors such as sensitivity, accuracy, range, and operating conditions.
Types of Pressure Measurements
There are a variety of properties that can be used to classify pressure sensors.
Different pressure types can be:
- Absolute pressure
- Gauge pressure (or Relative pressure)
- Differential pressure
- Sealed gauge pressure
- Vacuum pressure
Types of pressure measurement with pressure application examples
| Types | Measurement Type | Unit | Application Examples |
| Absolute pressure | Measuring vacuum pressure | psia/kPa | · Barometric · Meteorological applications |
| Gauge pressure (or Relative pressure) | Measuring atmospheric pressure | psig/kPa | · Chamber pressure · Car tyre ·Hydraulic applications |
| Differential pressure | Measuring the difference between two pressure port readings | psid/kPa | · HVAC systems · Air filters · Ducts |
| Sealed gauge pressure | Measuring a fixed pressure | psis/kPa | · Tire pressure · Food and beverage · For use in aggressive Media |
| Vacuum pressure | Measuring below atmospheric pressure | inHg/mbar | · Vacuum pumps · Semiconductor processing · Flight instruments |
Absolute pressure: This is the pressure measured relative to a perfect vacuum, and is typically measured in units such as pounds per square inch absolute (psia) or kilopascals absolute (kPa). Absolute pressure is often used in scientific and engineering applications.
Gauge pressure (or relative pressure): Used to measure the pressure relative to the currently present atmospheric pressure., and is typically measured in units such as pounds per square inch gauge (psig) or kilopascals gauge (kPa). Gauge pressure is often used in industrial and commercial applications.
Differential pressure: Measured by how much the two differ from each other, not their magnitude relative to atmospheric pressure or to another reference pressure. , and is typically measured in units such as pounds per square inch differential (psid) or kilopascals differential (kPa). Differential pressure is often used in HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems, where it is used to measure the pressure drop across air filters, ducts, and other components.
Sealed gauge pressure: Measured pressure relative to a fixed pressure rather than to the current atmospheric pressure, such as the pressure inside a sealed container. Sealed gauge pressure is often used in applications where the reference pressure is known and constant, such as in tire pressure sensors.
Vacuum pressure: This is the pressure below atmospheric pressure, and is typically measured in units such as inches of mercury (inHg) or millibars (mbar). Vacuum pressure is often used in applications such as vacuum pumps, where it is used to measure the pressure inside a vacuum chamber.
What is the Most Commonly Used Pressure Sensor?
In a survey by Sensors Online, the most popular types of pressure sensors used by engineers and designers were piezoresistive sensors.
According to a report by Grand View Research, the piezoresistive technology segment dominated the market in 2021 and accounted for more than a 25% share of the global revenue. This pressure sensor technology is widely used in automotive, medical, and industrial applications.
Followed by capacitive type pressure sensor, and then strain gauges.
The piezoresistive pressure sensor is a commonly used MEMS pressure sensor, but they are not necessarily the most commonly used type of pressure sensor in all applications. The most appropriate type to use depends on the specific requirements of the application, such as the pressure range, accuracy, response time, and environmental conditions. Therefore, it is important to choose the most appropriate type of sensor for your specific application.
Applications of pressure sensors
What is a Pressure Sensor Used For?
Pressure sensors are used in a wide range of applications across various industries.
Here are some common pressure sensor applications:
- Medical applications
- Home applications
- Consumer electronics
- Automotive industry
- Industrial automation
- Aerospace industry
Medical applications: Used in medical devices such as blood pressure monitors, respiratory equipment, and anesthesia machines to monitor and control pressure in medical procedures.
Home applications: Used in smart home systems and gas appliances such as stoves, ovens, and water heaters, Pressure sensors are an important component of many home systems and can help to ensure that these systems operate safely and efficiently.
Consumer electronics: Used in a variety of consumer electronics devices such as smartphones, tablets, and wearables to detect changes in altitude, air pressure, and other environmental factors.
Automotive industry: Used in engine control systems and transmissions to measure intake manifold pressure, fuel pressure, and oil pressure. They are also used in tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) to help ensure the safe and efficient operation of the vehicle.
Industrial automation: Industrial automation: Used in industrial control systems, such as hydraulic systems, compressed air systems, and water supply systems to monitor and control the pressure of fluids and gases in various processes. Industrial pressure sensors play a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of machinery and equipment and can help to prevent costly downtime and equipment failures.
Aerospace industry: Used in the aerospace industry to monitor and control pressure in aircraft engines, fuel systems, and other critical systems to ensure the safe and efficient operation of aircraft.
Pressure Sensor Maintenance
How Do I Know if My Pressure Sensor is Working?
Follow these steps to determine if the pressure sensor is working:
- Check the power supply: Make sure the sensor is properly connected to the power source and that the power supply is providing the correct voltage and current.
- Inspect the sensor: Check the sensor for visible damage or signs of wear. Make sure the sensor is clean and free of dirt or rust that can affect its performance.
- Check signal output: Measure the pressure sensor output signal with a multimeter or oscilloscope. The output signal should match the expected pressure reading.
- Test the sensor against a known pressure source: If you have access to a known pressure source, such as a pressure gauge or a compressed air source, you can compare the readings of the sensor with the known pressure to verify its accuracy.
- Calibrate the sensor: If the sensor is not reading accurately, it may need to be calibrated. To calibrate the sensor, follow the manufacturer’s instructions or ask a professional for help.
By following these steps, you can determine if a pressure sensor is working and provide accurate readings. If you are unsure how well it works or its importance for your application, you should consult with a qualified professional or the manufacturer for further guidance.
What Happens when Your Pressure Sensor Goes Out?
When a pressure sensor goes out, it can cause a number of problems depending on the application it is being used for.
Here are some possible consequences of a pressure sensor failure:
Loss of accuracy: A failed pressure sensor may provide inaccurate readings or no readings at all. This can result in incorrect process control, data acquisition, or safety issues.
System failure: In some cases, a pressure sensor malfunction can cause the system to malfunction or shut down. For example, if a sensor in a hydraulic system fails, the system can stop working properly.
Safety risks: A failed pressure sensor may lead to safety risks if it is used in a safety-critical application. For example, the failure of a pressure sensor in a medical device or gas pipeline may pose a safety risk to patients or the public.
Increased maintenance costs: A failed pressure sensor may require additional maintenance or replacement, which can increase maintenance costs and prolong downtime.
Reduced efficiency: A failed pressure sensor may reduce system performance or increase energy consumption. For example, a malfunctioning pressure regulator in an HVAC system causes the system to operate improperly, resulting in high energy costs.
In general, a failed pressure sensor can have significant consequences, particularly in applications where safety, accuracy, and reliability are critical. Therefore, it is important to regularly monitor them and replace them if necessary to prevent problems.
Trends and Developments in Pressure Sensor
The Global Pressure Sensor Market Size
The global pressure sensor market is expected to grow from USD 18.5 billion in 2022 to USD 26.3 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 4.6% during the projection period 2023-2030.
The regions analyzed for the pressure sensor market include North America, Europe, South America, Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa. These are the key regions where the pressure sensor market is operating and is predicted to expand soon. The manufacturers and suppliers involved in the pressure sensor market are present across various countries in the above-mentioned regions.
Asia Pacific region dominated the pressure sensor market and held a 39% share of the market revenue in 2022.
Germany’s pressure sensor market size was valued at USD 1.32 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach USD 1.90 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 4.7% from 2023 to 2030.
China’s pressure sensor market size was valued at USD 1.8 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach USD 2.6 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 4.9% from 2023 to 2030.
India’s pressure sensor market size was valued at USD 1.4 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach USD 2.03 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 4.8% from 2023 to 2030.
The market growth can be attributed to the rising demand for energy-efficient pressure sensors for consumer electronics, automotive, and portable healthcare wearables.
Sources: GreyViews
Industries That Use Pressure Sensors Most Often
The automotive industry is one of the largest users of pressure sensors. The global automotive pressure sensors market size was estimated at USD 6,120.00 million in 2022, USD 6,667.36 million in 2023, and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.08% to reach USD 12,266.76 million by 2030.
The medical industry is also a significant user of pressure sensors. The medical sensors market was valued at USD 6.02 billion in 2021, and it is expected to reach USD 10.28 billion by 2027, registering a CAGR of 9.64% during the period. The development of new devices that provide faster analysis, lower costs, and are user-friendly contributes to the growth of the medical sensor market.
The demand for pressure sensors in the oil and gas industry is also on the rise. The sensors market share in the oil and gas industry is expected to increase by USD 1.73 billion from 2021 to 2026, and the market’s growth momentum will accelerate at a CAGR of 4.04%.
Pressure sensors are witnessing significant growth, owing to their increasing use across industries for applications such as alarm systems, water purifiers, medical breathing appliances, refrigeration systems, and off-road constructions. Moreover, people are moving towards more automation-based solutions and services, which also leads to an increasing focus on IoT-based devices due to their innovative and advanced applications.
Sources: Research and Markets, Market Research, Technavio
Conclusion
That’s a comprehensive definition of pressure sensors, explaining what is pressure sensor and their types, working principles, applications in various industries, and market prospects.
Advancements in technology are expected to drive the development of smaller, more accurate, and more affordable pressure sensors and pressure sensor die, further increasing their adoption across industries.
Now I want to hear from you:
Do you think the growth of pressure sensors is sustainable? Do you want to know some other sensors? such as an IR sensor, gas sensor, or humidity sensor? What else would you like to see added to this article? Or have some questions?
Either way, please leave a comment below or contact us.