ACTIVITY 1

MIDTERM

MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL PRESSURE ELEMENTS

NAME: JOVEN N. BANTE DATE: OCTOBER 25 2023

YEAR & SECTION: BSEE 4E INSTRUCTOR: Engr. Syra Lyn B. Magistrado

1. What is Electrical Pressure Elements?

* Electrical pressure elements, often referred to as electrical pressure transducers or

sensors, are devices used to measure electrical pressure, which is typically voltage or
electric potential difference. These elements are designed to convert changes in electrical
pressure into corresponding electrical signals that can be measured and interpreted. They
are commonly used in various applications, such as pressure sensing in electronic
circuits, industrial automation, and instrumentation.

In essence, electrical pressure elements work similarly to how a mechanical pressure

gauge measures fluid pressure but instead measure electrical potential differences. They
play a crucial role in monitoring and controlling electrical systems, ensuring safe and
efficient operation.

2. Give some electrical pressure sensors.

There are several types of electrical pressure sensors commonly used in various
applications. Here are a few examples:

*Strain Gauge Pressure Sensors: These sensors use the resistance change of a strain
gauge element to measure pressure. When pressure is applied, it causes mechanical
deformation, which alters the resistance of the strain gauge, and this change is converted
into an electrical signal.

*Piezoelectric Pressure Sensors: Piezoelectric sensors use the piezoelectric effect, where
certain materials generate an electric charge when subjected to mechanical stress. This
charge is proportional to the pressure applied and can be measured as a voltage.

*Capacitive Pressure Sensors: Capacitive sensors measure pressure by changes in

capacitance due to the deflection of a diaphragm under pressure. The capacitance change
is converted into an electrical signal.

*Resonant Silicon Pressure Sensors: These sensors use a resonating silicon diaphragm.
Changes in pressure cause the diaphragm to vibrate at its resonant frequency, which can
be measured electrically.

*Magnetic Pressure Sensors: These sensors use the Hall effect or magnetoresistive
principles to measure pressure by detecting changes in magnetic fields caused by
mechanical pressure variations.
 ACTIVITY 1
MIDTERM

MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL PRESSURE ELEMENTS

*Optical Pressure Sensors: Optical sensors use variations in light properties, such as
refractive index or light absorption, to measure pressure changes. These changes are then
converted into electrical signals.

*Potentiometric Pressure Sensors: These sensors use a resistive element with a sliding
contact. Pressure-induced deformations cause the position of the sliding contact to
change, altering the electrical resistance and providing a pressure-dependent voltage
output.

3. How Do Piezoelectric Sensors Work?

*. Piezoelectric sensors are widely used in various applications, including pressure
sensing, vibration measurement, and acoustic signal detection. They are known for their
high sensitivity, rapid response times, and durability. Their ability to directly convert
mechanical stress into an electrical signal makes them valuable in many fields, from
industrial monitoring and control to scientific research and medical devices.