A manometer is used to measure the pressure of liquids or gases. PCE Instruments (PCE) offers handheld digital manometer products as well as flanged manometer and fixed manometer products for use in a variety of practical pressure measuring applications.

A handheld digital manometer commonly is used to measure differential pressure in heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Differential pressure references the difference in pressure between two points. For example, an HVAC service professional might compare the difference in pressure in front of and behind an air filter when performing duct system diagnostics.

A flanged manometer is referred to predominantly as a pressure gauge. This type of pressure measuring tool typically is used to measure relative pressure or absolute pressure. Relative pressure references external air pressure or atmospheric pressure. Absolute pressure references zero pressure or a perfect vacuum. Flanged manometers are threaded pressure gauges designed to connect to pipes containing different liquids or gases. The type of membrane or diaphragm used in the pressure gauge determines the gauge’s compatibility with certain kinds of liquids or gases. For example, ceramic diaphragms are highly resistant to process fluids with abrasive particles, but ceramic diaphragms can be incompatible with strong acids. Whereas stainless steel diaphragms are easy to clean and sterilize, and thus frequently used in the hygienic processing of food and pharmaceutical products.