Switch points in vacuum ranges: How are they set?

Setting the switch points of an electronic pressure switch for an application in the vacuum range is not a self-explanatory task. The next article therefore explains what has to be taken into account with this particular setting. It involves a pressure switch with a hysteresis function. Instruments with this particular configuration are most regularly installed in industrial applications.
Copy , 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 regards 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 start of measuring range (MRS) is always smaller compared to the end of measuring range (MRE). This rule could be easily understood with settings for ambient air pressures.
Example: Control of a vacuum pump
On the other hand, setting the switch points in the vacuum range and therefore, ultimately, the switching function, requires more attention. To illustrate this, let?s take the control of vacuum pressure pump, for instance, which must maintain a vacuum between -0.7 bar and -0.5 bar. For the duty described, we select a pressure switch with a measuring selection of -1 ? 0 bar.
The beginning of measuring range (MRS) is therefore -1 bar, the finish of measuring range (MRE) 0 bar. This means: At 0 bar (= start of operation) the switch ought to be closed, so that you can switch on the vacuum pump. If the pressure drops to -0.7 bar, the switch must open and prevent the pump. When the pressure reaches top of the limit value of -0.5 bar, the pump should once more start and run until the pressure has again dropped to -0.7 bar.
ow must the switch points be set within this vacuum range? Let?s take both pictures and translate MRS and MRE:
Here it is clear that the ?normally open? function must be selected, otherwise the pump would not activate. After entering the switch points, the schematic is obtained, which shows the way the pressure switch functions relative to the example:
Note
Information about WIKA?s electronic pressure switches are available on the WIKA website. Do you want to buy pressure switches? Inside our WIKA online-shop you will discover a few of our standard designs. If you have any questions, your contact will gladly help you.
Also read our posts
What’s meant by the switching function ?hysteresis? with electronic pressure switches?
What’s the difference between the switching functions ?hysteresis? and ?window? in pressure switches?
What’s meant by the ?normally open? switching function with pressure switches?

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