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THEORY:

The Bourbon gage is used extensively to measure fluid

pressures in both the higher and lower range. It is a simple
device basically made up of curved, elastic metal tube, usually
of brass or stainless steel, which changes its geometry when
filled with fluid under pressure. Because of extended period of
use Bourbon gage readings could deviate slightly from the
true pressure value. It is therefore necessary to calibrate from
time to time the instrument in order to determine its accuracy
and suitably of its use. Slight deviations of the readings may
still warrant the use of the instrument, otherwise it requires its
change.

Calibrations of pressure gages is reasonably achieved by the

use of a Dead Weight tester. It consists of a valve base and a
barrel which has a precision machined bore into which fits a
piston. The piston is fitted with a platform which could carry
calibration weights. The valve base is provided with a
connection for the fluid (water or oil) supply and a connection
for the pressure gage to be calibrated. The test is based on the
idea that the pressure gage reading must be equal to the fluid
pressure acting on the face of the piston. The pressure on the
piston face can be computed as equal to the calibration
weights including that of the platform and piston divided by
the piston face area. Allowance may be accounted for the
piston face level is different from the gage level under test.

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 Fig A

Fig B

Fig D
Fig C

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PROCEDURE:

Fill up the cylinder with oil of known specific gravity/density.

Slightly insert the piston into the cylinder and remove as much
air bubble from cylinder hose. Prior to data reading, rotate
the piston to remove bubbles. Read the indicated bourdon-
tube pressure gauge as the first reading (zero gauge). Add load
weight on the piston. Apply oil pressure using the plunger
slowly and carefully until oil just begins to come out of the
spill pipe. Get the reading on pressure gauge.

Note: That before the reading be sure bubbles are removed by

rotating the piston. Add load weights on the piston in an
increment of 1 to 2 grams. Repeat steps described above,
increasing up to the maximum weight the instrument can carry.
In decreasing manner, unload the weight from the piston
gradually in an increment 1 to 2 grams (Repeat the procedure
described above using water)

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DETAILED PROCEDURE:
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COMPUTATION AND ANALYSIS:

QUESTIONS:

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1. Explain the operation of the Bourdon gage elaborately the mechanism of the
bourbon gage.
2. Describe the following pressure gages.
b. Helical-spring gage
c. Diaphragm and bellows gages
d. Slack-diaphragm gages
e. Electric strain gages

3. Discuss thoroughly the causes of deviation in the readings between the true
reading and the gage reading.

CONCLUSION:

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