Bourdon Tube: Temperature Range -40°C to +200°C

Component Specifications

Definition

The Bourdon tube is a fundamental sensing element in mechanical pressure gauges, consisting of a flattened, C-shaped or helical tube made from elastic materials. When internal pressure increases, the tube tends to straighten due to its cross-sectional geometry, creating proportional mechanical displacement at the sealed tip. This displacement is mechanically amplified through linkages to rotate a pointer on a calibrated dial, providing visual pressure readings. Bourdon tubes operate on the principle that pressure applied to the inside of a curved tube with non-circular cross-section causes it to deform toward a circular shape, generating measurable motion.

Working Principle

Pressure applied inside a curved tube with elliptical or flattened cross-section causes the tube to straighten as it attempts to achieve a circular cross-section. This elastic deformation creates proportional mechanical displacement at the free end, which is transmitted through linkages to move a pointer across a calibrated scale.

Materials

Typically made from elastic metals: phosphor bronze (for low pressure), beryllium copper (medium pressure), stainless steel (high pressure/corrosive environments), or specialty alloys like Monel or Inconel for specific applications. Material selection depends on pressure range, media compatibility, and temperature conditions.

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Accuracy	±0.5% to ±2.5% of full scale
Tube Shapes	C-shaped, helical, spiral
Pressure Range	Vacuum to 100,000 psi
Connection Types	Threaded (NPT, BSP), flange, sanitary
Temperature Range	-40°C to +200°C
Overpressure Safety	Typically 130% of full scale

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Standards

ISO 5171, DIN 16085, ASME B40.100

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Pressure Gauge Assembly

The Pressure Gauge Assembly is a specialized component within a Homogenizer Unit that monitors and displays the internal pressure during homogenization processes.

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Bourdon Tube/Sensor

A curved, elastic tube that converts pressure into mechanical displacement for measurement.

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Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation

Material fatigue from pressure cycling
Corrosion from incompatible media
Overpressure damage
Temperature-induced errors
Mechanical linkage wear

FMEA Triads

Trigger: Excessive pressure cycling or pulsation
Failure: Fatigue cracking at tube root
Mitigation: Install pulsation dampeners, select appropriate pressure range, implement regular inspection schedules

Trigger: Corrosive media contact
Failure: Tube wall thinning or pitting
Mitigation: Use compatible materials (stainless steel, Monel), install chemical seals, implement media isolation systems

Trigger: Mechanical vibration
Failure: Linkage wear or pointer oscillation
Mitigation: Use liquid-filled gauges, install vibration dampeners, secure mounting

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Typical Suppliers & Equivalents

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance

±1% of full scale for industrial grade, ±0.5% for precision applications

Test Method

Deadweight tester calibration, comparison against master gauge, hydrostatic/pneumatic pressure testing per ISO 5171

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

A practical evidence checklist for RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation

Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.

Manufacturing capability

Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.

Inspection readiness

Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.

Supplier transparency

Check the legal entity, factory address, ownership, certifications, and direct contacts.

CNFX does not score or rank suppliers. Buyers must verify all claims and documents with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Manufacturers of Bourdon Tube

2 companies list this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

BCST Group

Shanghai, CN

Also makes: Butterfly Valve, Signal Processor, Temperature Controller and 9 more

Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources

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NINGBO BEILUN GC-BOB INSTRUMENT CO.,LTD.

Ningbo, Zhejiang, CN

Also makes: Pressure Gauge/Sensor, Pressure Gauge, Flow Meter and 9 more

Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources

View profile Send enquiry

Manufacturer listings support early research and capability understanding. They are not certification, ranking, or transaction guarantees.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main advantage of Bourdon tube pressure gauges?

Bourdon tube gauges provide reliable, mechanical pressure measurement without requiring external power, making them suitable for hazardous environments and critical applications where electrical components might fail.

How does tube shape affect Bourdon tube performance?

C-shaped tubes offer good sensitivity for moderate pressures, helical tubes provide greater tip travel for better resolution, and spiral tubes combine sensitivity with compact design for higher pressure ranges.

What causes Bourdon tube fatigue failure?

Repeated pressure cycling, pressure pulsations, vibration, and operation beyond recommended pressure ranges can cause material fatigue, leading to cracks or permanent deformation at the tube's root section.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Preliminary Technical Classification

This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

Bourdon Tube