Can a pressure transmitter with a high turndown ratio replace multiple transmitters with lower turndown ratios?
Can a pressure transmitter with a high turndown ratio replace multiple transmitters with lower turndown ratios?
Yes, a pressure transmitter with a high turndown ratio can often take the place of several transmitters with lesser turndown ratios. This can save money, make inventory easier to manage, and make maintenance easier. A turndown ratio is the range in which a transmitter can reliably read pressure. For instance, a transmitter with a 100:1 turndown ratio may accurately measure from 1 bar to 100 bar. On the other hand, transmitters with a 10:1 turndown ratio would need more than one unit to cover the same area, with each unit only covering a smaller range.
Advantages of using a high turndown ratio transmitter:
- Wider pressure coverage: One transmitter can work with a lot of different applications that need varying ranges.
- Less inventory: There are fewer transmitter models to keep in stock or manage.
- Easier commissioning: Makes engineering less complicated during design and startup.
- Reduced resources spent on installation: fewer devices equal less wires, fittings, and I/O terminals.
However, consider the following before replacing:
- Low-range accuracy: Some transmitters may not be as accurate at the lower end of the range, even with a high turndown. Always examine the accuracy specification for the whole range of turndown.
- Response time and stability: In some dynamic processes, a higher turndown might change how quickly things respond.
- Needs for specialized applications: Some critical applications may need dedicated transmitters that are made for narrower, more accurate ranges.
In short, a high turndown ratio transmitter can take the place of several units, but make sure it still meets the performance and reliability needs for the whole process.