Mechanical Vibration Causing Gauge Failure

Gauges can fail due to mechanical vibration.

The indicators for system vibration can be seen from the exterior, but there may also be internal damage to your gauge. 

Break down this common failure issue:

Causes

• Failure due to mechanical vibration can be caused by several things. When looking at your system, consider the following:

  • Is there vibrating equipment near the gauge?
  • Are the pumps misaligned, or are there reciprocating compressors?
  • How is the fixture mounted? A poor fixture mount can cause an excessive amount of vibration

Risk

•  Vibration breaks the movement and the movement no longer anchors the Bourdon tube
• Failure of the Bourdon tube and gauge
• System media releases into the environment, resulting in potential injury and lost system media 

Solution

•  Use a liquid-filled gauge in your system. A liquid-filled gauge will reduce internal wear, lubricate and cool moving parts, as well as dampen the effects of vibration. Available case fills include Glycerine, Silicone, Halocarbon, and Fluorolube. Eliminate or reduce avoidable vibration in the system. In extreme situations, you can use a snubber or a diaphragm seal with an internal restrictor (in place of a Bourdon tube-style gauge) for a more robust solution.