Introduction
Pressure measurement is at the heart of process control, but not all pressure readings are straightforward. While many are familiar with standard pressure gauges, numerous industrial applications require a Differential Pressure (DP) Gauge. So, what exactly is the difference, and when should you choose one over the other? Arbuda Instruments breaks it down for you.

Standard Pressure Gauges: The Baseline
A standard pressure gauge measures system pressure relative to local atmospheric pressure. These gauges are highly versatile and commonly used to monitor pumps, compressors, and hydraulic systems. If your requirement is to measure pressure within a single pipe or vessel, a standard pressure gauge is the ideal solution.

Differential Pressure Gauges: The Problem Solver
Unlike a standard gauge that measures one point against atmospheric pressure, a Differential Pressure Gauge measures the difference in pressure between two separate points within the same system. This makes it essential for applications where comparative pressure readings are critical.

Common Applications for DP Gauges

• Filter Monitoring: As a filter becomes clogged, the downstream pressure drops. A DP gauge measures pressure before and after the filter, clearly indicating when maintenance is required—without shutting down the entire process.
• Liquid Level Measurement: In sealed tanks, a DP gauge determines liquid levels by measuring the difference between hydrostatic pressure at the bottom and static gas pressure at the top.
• Flow Rate Monitoring: When used with primary flow elements such as orifice plates, the pressure drop across the restriction allows accurate calculation of flow rates.

Conclusion
Selecting between a standard pressure gauge and a differential pressure gauge depends on whether you need absolute system pressure or a comparison between two process points. Arbuda Instruments offers robust, high-accuracy Differential Pressure Gauges designed for demanding industrial environments. Explore our catalog to find the perfect instrument to optimize your process performance.