Just like with pressure gauges, pressure switches can also be affected by sudden pressure surges and pulsations, which can lead to premature wear, false triggering, inaccurate switching, or damage. By using a snubber, the pressure switch is protected from these rapid changes, and can enhance its performance, reliability, and durability, particularly in systems with pressure surges and fluctuations.
The pressure snubber works by evening out the rate at which the fluid or gas being measured arrives, dampening the effects of these pressure spikes, allowing the switch or gauge to respond more slowly and smoothly to changes in pressure. The snubber diminishes the pulsation in the line, thereby improving the consistency of the instrument reading, and extending the effective lifetime of the pressure switch.
A snubber does not alter the pressure of the process.
Snubbers are especially useful in systems with rapidly fluctuating pressures, such as hydraulic systems, to ensure the longevity and accuracy of the pressure switch or gauge.
Snubbers typically come in various forms, including porous metal discs, adjustable needle valves, or pistons with small orifices. The choice of snubber depends on the specific application and the type of fluid being measured.
Pressure snubbers are useful in protecting both pressure switches and pressure gauges. Here's how they help each:
Protect Your Pressure Switches
Protection from Pressure Surges
Snubbers dampen sudden spikes in pressure, which can prevent damage to the pressure switch's internal components.
Improved Accuracy
By smoothing out pressure fluctuations, snubbers help maintain more consistent pressure readings, leading to more accurate switch operation.
Prevent False Tripping
Snubbers help prevent the pressure switch from reacting to transient pressure spikes, reducing the likelihood of false triggering.
Increased Durability & Lifespan
Reducing the impact and stress of pressure surges on the switch's internal components extends the lifespan of the pressure switch.
Protect Your Pressure Gauges
Protection from Surges
Snubbers protect gauges from sudden pressure spikes, which can damage the gauge or cause it to read inaccurately.
Smooth Readings
By dampening pressure fluctuations, snubbers help ensure that the gauge provides a more stable and accurate reading.
Extended Lifespan
Protecting the gauge from rapid pressure changes reduces wear and tear, extending its operational life.
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Each type of pressure snubber - porous, piston, and adjustable - has its own ideal applications based on the nature of the pressure fluctuations and the specific needs of the system.
Each type of snubber provides different levels of protection and adjustment, so selecting the right type depends on the specific characteristics of the pressure fluctuations and the environment in which the pressure switch is operating.
Ideal Uses of Each Snubber Type
1. Porous Snubbers
Applications with Moderate Pressure Pulsations - Porous snubbers are best used in systems where the pressure fluctuations are moderate and predictable. They are effective at smoothing out pressure spikes and providing a steady reading by filtering out high-frequency oscillations.
Clean Fluids/Gases - Suitable for applications where the fluid or gas is relatively clean. The porous material can become clogged over time if the medium contains particulates.
Example
Water or air systems with moderate pulsation, such as HVAC systems or water pumping stations.
2. Piston Snubbers
High Pressure Spikes and Pulsations - Piston snubbers are designed to handle higher pressure spikes and more severe pulsations. They work by physically absorbing and dampening pressure changes through a mechanical piston mechanism.
Dirty or Contaminated Fluids - They are often used in applications where the medium contains particulates or contaminants that could clog a porous snubber.
Example
Hydraulic systems or applications with high-pressure surges, like compressors or oil field equipment.
3. Adjustable Snubbers
Variable Pressure Conditions
Adjustable snubbers are suitable for systems where the pressure conditions vary widely or are not well-defined. They allow for customization of the damping characteristics to match the specific requirements of the application.
Flexible Applications
Ideal for systems where different operating conditions may be encountered, and fine-tuning of the snubber's response is beneficial.
Example
Industrial processes with fluctuating pressures, such as chemical manufacturing or processing plants where pressure conditions can change based on various factors.
Wika type 910.12 porous, piston, and adjustable pressure snubbers can be installed directly on the instrument to be protected.
Porous snubbers can be cleaned by back flushing with a commercial grade solvent.
Piston snubbers are generally self-cleaning, however they can be cleaned manually by removing the threaded cap inside the pressure port, then removing the piston. Metal parts should be cleaned in a commercial grade solvent.
Adjustable snubbers can be cleaned by backing the needle valve out from the body in a counterclockwise direction until it stops and back flushing the pressure port with a commercial grade solvent.