In hydraulic systems, oil pressure is a key parameter to ensure the normal operation of the system. Are you curious about how the oil pressure in construction machinery is monitored in real-time? It is mainly measured by oil pressure sensors. This article will give a comprehensive introduction to oil pressure sensors.
What is an Oil Pressure Sensor?
An oil pressure sensor is a device used to measure the oil pressure in a hydraulic system. It senses pressure changes and converts them into electrical signals. It is used to control the fuel pressure in the oil circuit. It maintains a constant oil supply pressure in the injector. It returns excess fuel to the tank. In industrial processes, oil pressure sensors can be used to measure the pressure of oil storage tanks and oil pipelines.
How does an Oil Pressure Sensor Work?
Its working principle is mainly based on: the piezoresistive effect, the capacitive effect or the piezoelectric effect. The key components include sensitive elements, signal processing circuits and pressure-resistant packaging materials.
The oil pressure acts on the sensitive element and produces deformation. The sensitive element sends an electrical signal. Taking a piezoresistive sensor as an example, the strain gauge on the sensitive element is deformed under the action of oil pressure. Deformation causes the resistance value to change, and the oil pressure value can be calculated by measuring the resistance change.
Oil pressure sensors can be divided into piezoresistive sensors, capacitive sensors and piezoelectric sensors according to the principle. According to the measurement range, they can be divided into low-pressure type (0-10MPa), medium-pressure type (10- 50MPa) and high-pressure type (above 50MPa).
We provide various types of oil pressure sensors. Our sensors support customization. We can customize oil pressure sensors up to 1000MPa. If you need, please contact us.
Where is an Oil Pressure Sensor Located?
1. Mechanical equipment:
Hydraulic oil sensors are usually installed in the main pipeline or oil tank of the hydraulic system. The installation location can be on the pipeline near the main control valve or at the bottom of the oil tank.
2. Aircraft:
Hydraulic oil sensors of aircraft hydraulic systems are usually installed in key positions of the main hydraulic system or auxiliary hydraulic system. This may include hydraulic pipelines of key components such as main landing gear, flaps, spoilers and brake systems.
3. Hydraulic system:
Hydraulic oil sensors of hydraulic systems are usually installed in the main hydraulic pipeline or pressure oil line. The installation location may be at the hydraulic pump outlet, hydraulic valve group or the main pipeline of the system circulation.
4. Ships:
The oil sensor of the ship’s hydraulic system is usually installed at the key position of the main hydraulic system. For example, steering gear, anchor windlass, ship-borne crane, etc.
The specific installation location of the hydraulic oil sensor may vary depending on the design of different equipment and systems. The recommended installation location should follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
If you have any questions about the installation of the oil pressure sensor. Please contact us immediately. Sino-Inst professional engineers will answer you.
How to Check an Oil Pressure Sensor?
1. Appearance inspection:
First, check whether there is obvious damage or corrosion on the appearance of the sensor. Make sure the connection line is intact.
2. Electrical test:
Use a multimeter or oscilloscope to test whether the resistance, voltage or current output of the sensor is within the normal range. According to the specification of the sensor, confirm whether the test results meet the standards.
3. Pressure test:
Connect the sensor to the pressure source and perform a pressure test on the sensor. Determine whether the sensor is working properly by observing the signal changes output by the sensor. Specialized test equipment can be used to simulate pressure changes.
4. Calibration:
If the sensor supports calibration, you can perform a calibration operation to ensure the accuracy of the data output by the sensor.
5. Comparison:
Compare the test results with a known good sensor to see if there is a significant difference.
Causes of Oil Pressure Sensor Failure
Oil pressure sensor damage may be caused by a variety of reasons. Common reasons include:
Sensor aging or damage:
After long-term use, the oil pressure sensor may degrade due to aging or wear of the components.
Electrical failure:
Loose wire connections, corrosion or poor contact may cause the sensor to not work properly.
Oil contamination:
Impurities or contaminants in the oil may affect the operation of the sensor. Cause the sensor reports oil pressure incorrectly.
Excessive temperature:
High-temperature environments may cause damage to the internal components of the sensor.
What does an Oil Pressure Sensor do?
An oil pressure sensor is a device that converts oil pressure signals into electrical signals. It is used in various fields.
Machine tool field
Tool clamping and release control: In CNC machine tools, monitor the hydraulic pressure of the tool clamping device.
Workbench movement control: Monitor the hydraulic pressure of the drive workbench and control the movement speed and position of the workbench.
Industrial automation field
Equipment pressure control: In CNC machine tools, injection molding machines and other equipment, monitor the hydraulic pressure.
Production line monitoring: In the material conveying and assembly system of the automated production line, monitor the hydraulic pressure.
Transportation field
Automobile engine management: Monitor the oil pressure and provide data for the engine control system.
Fuel system monitoring: Detect the fuel pressure in the fuel tank and detect abnormal conditions in the fuel system in time.
Transmission oil pressure detection: Installed in the automatic transmission oil pump or output oil channel to detect the transmission oil pressure.
Petrochemical field
Pipeline pressure monitoring: In pipelines such as oil and natural gas, monitor the pressure changes in the pipeline.
Aerospace field
Hydraulic system control: In the hydraulic system of aircraft and spacecraft, monitor and control the pressure.
Engineering machinery field
Hydraulic system monitoring: In engineering machinery such as excavators and loaders, it monitors the oil pressure of the hydraulic system in real time.
Cargo weighing: It indirectly calculates the weight of the loaded cargo by measuring the pressure change of the hydraulic system.
What is the Lifespan of the Oil Pressure Sensor?
There is no fixed standard for the lifespan of the oil pressure sensor. It is generally 3 to 5 years under normal use. The lifespan of oil pressure sensors of different brands and types varies.
An Oil Pressure Sensor Maintenance
The key points of oil pressure sensor maintenance include:
- Clean the sensor surface regularly to ensure that there are no contaminants.
- Check the connection and cable to ensure that the connection is firm.
- Calibrate the sensor regularly.
- Prevent dust, moisture, and chemical substances from affecting it.
- Check the power supply regularly.
- Pay attention to the matching of the connector and the thread.
Sino-Inst is a scientific, industrial and trade technology enterprise integrating R&D, production and sales. Sino-Inst is committed to the development and production of high-quality automation products suitable for various working conditions. The company’s products mainly include automatic control systems such as liquid level, flow, pressure, temperature, oil-water mixing, etc.
We have a wealth of successful cases in the fields of power, petrochemical, metallurgy, pharmaceuticals, food, water treatment, aerospace, etc. If you have any questions about oil level measurement, please contact us immediately. We will customize the measurement solution for you 24 hours a day.
