Switch points in vacuum ranges: How are they set?

Setting the switch points of an electronic pressure switch for a credit card applicatoin in the vacuum range isn’t a self-explanatory task. The following article therefore explains what has to be taken into account with this setting. Jeopardy involves a pressure switch with a hysteresis function. Instruments with this configuration are most frequently installed in industrial applications.
Electronic pressure switches, like the WIKA models PSD-4 and PSD-4-ECO or the A-1200 pressure sensor with IO-Link, operate as ?normally closed? or ?normally open?, with respect to the task. The following graphics illustrate both switching functions with the respective switch and reset points:
In principle, the next applies: The switch point (SP) is greater than the reset point (RP) and the beginning of measuring range (MRS) is definitely smaller than the end of measuring range (MRE). Admit could be easily understood with settings for ambient air pressures.
Example: Control of vacuum pressure pump
However, setting the switch points in the vacuum range and thus, ultimately, the switching function, requires more attention. To illustrate this, let?s take the control of a vacuum pump, for example, which must maintain vacuum pressure between -0.7 bar and -0.5 bar. For the duty described, we decide on a pressure switch with a measuring range of -1 ? 0 bar.
The beginning of measuring range (MRS) is therefore -1 bar, the end of measuring range (MRE) 0 bar. This implies: At 0 bar (= start of operation) the switch should be closed, as a way to activate the vacuum pump. If the pressure drops to -0.7 bar, the switch must open and prevent the pump. When the pressure reaches the upper limit value of -0.5 bar, the pump should once again start and run before pressure has again dropped to -0.7 bar.
ow must the switch points be set in this vacuum range? Let?s take the two pictures and translate MRS and MRE:
Here it is clear that the ?normally open? function should be selected, otherwise the pump would not switch on. After entering the switch points, the schematic is obtained, which shows how the pressure switch functions relative to the example:
Note
Information regarding WIKA?s electronic pressure switches can be found on the WIKA website. Do you want to buy pressure switches? In our WIKA online-shop you will find some of our standard designs. For those who have any questions, your contact will gladly help you.
Also read our posts
What is meant by the switching function ?hysteresis? with electronic pressure switches?
What is the difference between your switching functions ?hysteresis? and ?window? in pressure switches?
What’s meant by the ?normally open? switching function with pressure switches?

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