A1: A mechanical pressure switch monitors system pressure and actuates an electrical contact when a set threshold is reached. Barksdale’s switches use proven diaphragm, piston, or bourdon tube mechanisms for reliable operation in a wide variety of applications.

A2: Consider these key factors: Pressure: Operating/working pressure, adjustable range, and maximum system pressure. Environment: Hazardous or non-hazardous area, indoor/outdoor use, and required agency approvals. Application Requirements: Cycling frequency (high or low), size constraints, and media/material compatibility. Additional Considerations: Process connection type, electrical connection details (wire length and size), and accuracy requirements.

Use Barksdale’s Supplemental Guide which incudes guidance on how to select the right pressure switch: https://www.barksdale.com/sites/default/files/literature/documents/PresSwitch-SG2023_0.pdf

A3: Yes. Most Barksdale mechanical switches allow field adjustment of setpoint and deadband. Factory-set options are available for locked calibration.

A4: Certifications depend on your environment. Barksdale offers models with ATEX, IECEx, cULus, marine approvals, and SIL ratings for functional safety.

A5: Inspect for shorting or leakage every million cycles or 6 months. Test settings periodically if used as a safety device. Replace O-rings annually or every 2,000,000 cycles. Field repair of UL/CSA listed units may void certification. For more information, refer to Barksdale Supplemental Guide: https://www.barksdale.com/sites/default/files/literature/documents/PresSwitch-SG2023_0.pdf

A6: Will not actuate: Check range, actuation point, surge pressure, current/voltage, and switch element. Chattering: Check for rapid pressure fluctuations or vibration. Set point drift: Check temperature changes, current overload, cycles, and moisture. No current: Check power, connections, and correct wiring. Use Barksdale’s Supplemental Guide for troubleshooting help: https://www.barksdale.com/sites/default/files/literature/documents/PresSwitch-SG2023_0.pdf

A7: Proof pressure is the highest surge pressure a switch will experience. It’s critical to select a switch with a proof pressure rating above any possible system surges, not just the gauge reading. Diaphragm switches: proof to 300 psi; bourdon tube: proof to 24,000 psi; piston: proof to 20,000 psi.

A8: For greatest accuracy, set point should be in the upper 65% of the adjustable range. For longest life, use the lower 65%. The best balance is in the middle 30% of the range.

A9: These terms allude to the difference between the switch point and the reset point. At the switch point, the switch changes its state to activate. At the reset point, the original state is restored.

A10: Barksdale recommends the following: Establish the required set point and differential. Use the product chart for your model to find the intersection of set point and desired differential. For fixed differential models, refer to the “Standard” line in the chart. For adjustable models, ensure the lines cross between “Minimum” and “Maximum” values.

A11: Barksdale mechanical pressure switches are engineered for reliability and performance across a wide range of industries and demanding applications, including: Industrial Equipment & Machinery: Manufacturing, automation, hydraulic equipment, and machinery. Service Equipment: Lubrication systems, welding equipment, car wash systems, and filtration equipment. Transportation & Mobile Equipment: Rail, truck, utility vehicles, and mobile communications. Energy, Power Generation, and Oil & Gas: Transmission lines, petrochemical plants, refineries, compressors, oil and gas control, and natural gas distribution. Metals and Mining: Metal processing, forming, and mining operations. Agriculture: Irrigation, plastics/reelers, and farm equipment. Water and Wastewater: Municipal applications, water treatment, disposal, and PFAS remediation. Waste Management: Solid waste management, compactors, balers, and recycling equipment. Marine: Propulsion systems, bilge and ballast monitoring, auxiliary and hydraulic systems on board. Defense: Land-based vehicles, submarines, and defense vessels. Barksdale switches are designed to meet the rigorous requirements of these sectors, providing robust performance, long service life, and reliable operation in both standard and harsh environments.

A12: Barksdale pressure switches are essential for process safety and control in oil and gas transmission lines, petrochemical plants, refineries, compressors, and natural gas distribution. They monitor critical pressures, trigger alarms or shutdowns during abnormal conditions, and help maintain compliance with industry standards. Their rugged construction, certifications and approvals, and high proof pressure ratings make them suitable for harsh environments and demanding energy sector requirements.

A13: In agriculture, Barksdale mechanical pressure switches are used for irrigation systems, plastics/reelers, and farm equipment. They help automate water delivery, protect pumps from dry-run conditions, and ensure consistent operation of machinery. Their adjustable setpoints and durable design support reliable performance in outdoor and variable environmental conditions.

A14: Barksdale pressure switches are trusted in marine environments for propulsion systems, bilge and ballast monitoring, and auxiliary hydraulic systems on board ships and defense vessels. Their host of certifications for the market and long term reliability ensure safe operation in challenging marine conditions, helping maintain vessel safety and compliance with maritime standards.

A15: Mechanical Pressure Switch: Uses moving parts (like a diaphragm or piston) to open/close a contact at a set pressure. Best for simple on/off control. Electronic Pressure Switch: Uses a sensor and electronics to detect pressure and switch outputs. Offers digital displays, adjustable setpoints, and continuous output options. Pressure Transducer: Converts pressure into a continuous electrical signal (analog or digital) for monitoring and control. Used for precise measurement, not switching.