Setting the switch points of an electric pressure switch for an application in the vacuum range isn’t a self-explanatory task. The following article therefore explains what should be taken into account with this particular setting. It involves a pressure switch with a hysteresis function. Instruments with this particular configuration are most frequently installed in industrial applications.
Electronic pressure switches, including 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?, based on the task. The next 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 definitely smaller compared to the end of measuring range (MRE). This rule 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 task 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 means: At 0 bar (= start of operation) the switch should be closed, as a way to switch on the vacuum pump. If the pressure drops to -0.7 bar, the switch must open and stop the pump. When the pressure reaches top of the limit value of -0.5 bar, the pump should once again start and run until the pressure has again dropped to -0.7 bar.
ow must the switch points be set in this vacuum range? Let?s take both pictures and translate MRS and MRE:
Here it really is clear that the ?normally open? function should be selected, otherwise the pump wouldn’t normally switch on. After entering the switch points, the schematic is obtained, which ultimately 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. Would you like to buy pressure switches? Inside Thrilling -shop you will find a few of our standard designs. When you 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’s 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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