The photoelectric pressure transducer uses a phototube and a light source (either a stable source of light or ac modulated light) separated by a window, whose aperture is controlled by the force summing device of the pressure transducer as illustrated in the figure below:
The displacement of the force summing device modulates the quantity of incident light falling on the phototube; applied pressure or force changes the position of the force summing device which in turn changes the position of the window hence causing a change in incident light. A change in light intensity varies the photoemissive property of the photoelectric transducer/phototube at a rate approximately linear with displacement. A current (which is typically very small) is produced as a result of incident light on a phototube. This current is then amplified to provide a usable output.
You may also read:
- Features & Configuration of a Smart Pressure Transmitter
- How to Connect a DP (Differential Pressure) Flow Sensor to a DP Transmitter
- Types of Sensors used in Measurement and Process Control
- How to Perform Mass flow Measurements with DP sensors
- Analog vs. Digital Sensors
- Instrumentation Sensors and Transducers – Multiple Choice Questions & Answers (MCQ4)
- Passive vs. Active Sensors
