Are pressure gauges suitable for pharmaceutical processes? Yes, if they are available in a version with flush diaphragm element. Cheap can find two advantages for a mechanical pressure measurement with this particular type of instrument: Diaphragm pressure gauges measure ?dry? and thus reduce the threat of contamination. In addition, they offer a reliable measurement, even yet in critical situations, because of their extremely robust diaphragm element and the high overload safety.
In various pharmaceutical processes, diaphragm seal systems are accustomed to control the process pressure, also in combination with a pressure gauge. A diaphragm seal separates the measuring instrument from the procedure and thus protects it against influences. Its sensitive diaphragm for the transmission of pressure through liquid is relatively thin, as a result of accuracy of measurement. When compared to diaphragm because the pressure sensing component of a diaphragm pressure gauge, it is therefore more susceptible, both to unpredictable process conditions (pressure peaks, overload) and to mechanical influences. If the diaphragm is damaged, system fill fluid can enter the procedure.
The mechanism of a PG43SA pressure gauge with flush diaphragm element
No contamination
Pressure gauges with a flush diaphragm element eliminate such contamination given that they operate without liquid. Their robust diaphragm element transmits the pressure, with a link, directly to the movement. It really is two to five times as thick as a conventional diaphragm seal diaphragm. The diaphragm element is therefore effectively protected against unexpected physical effects. In addition, it can absorb a high overload ? with WIKA instruments that is around five times the nominal pressure.
Furthermore, pressure gauges for pharmaceutical processes must meet up with the stringent requirements for sanitary applications in all respects. It has been implemented by WIKA in its PG43SA series. For their instruments, a diaphragm element of only 35 mm in diameter was developed. Due to its special wave contour and the thickness of its material, the diaphragm includes a measuring quality comparable to the diaphragm part of a typical process instrument ? though this would be more than twice the size for a comparable pressure range.
Easily cleanable
All instruments of the PG43SA series comply with the guidelines of hygienic design, the 3-A Sanitary Standard and are certified to EHEDG. They are suitable for CIP/SIP processes and so are optionally completely autoclavable.
Two of the models (PG43SA-S and PG43SA-D) are pressure gauges with a radial process connection. For the model PG43SA-C, however, the process connection is built-into the case. This patent-pending design enables space-saving and for that reason flexible installation.
Integrated safety system
The model PG43SA-D has been tuned to suit particularly critical processes. The pressure gauge has a patent-pending integrated safety system. It includes a second protective barrier and diaphragm element monitoring. Should an unexpected diaphragm rupture occur, the procedure and measuring instrument remain securely separated. The medium cannot escape into the environment and likewise, nothing contaminating will get its way in to the process. Any instance of damage becomes known immediately: The diaphragm element monitoring reports it directly with a red indicator on the dial.
Designed as pressure gauges for pharmaceutical processes (f. l. t. r.): Model PG43SA-S (standard), model PG43SA-C (process connection in case) and model PG43SA-D (with additional safety system).
Note
For detailed information regarding the three diaphragm pressure gauges PG43SA-S, PG43SA-D and PG43SA-C, please visit the WIKA website. A concise overview is provided by the flyer for this instrument family.
For further information please watch the next video about the diaphragm pressure gauges of the PG43SA series: