Whether you’re managing steam boilers, water pumps, compressed air, or chemical systems, an accurate pressure gauge is vital to system safety and performance. But not all pressure readings are reliable—especially in environments where gauges are exposed to vibration, temperature swings, corrosion, or poor calibration.
In Malaysia’s humid and often demanding industrial conditions, pressure gauge errors can lead to false alarms, missed critical warnings, equipment strain, or even regulatory violations. That’s why understanding the common sources of pressure gauge reading errors is essential for plant operators, engineers, and maintenance teams.
This article explores the most frequent pressure gauge problems, what causes them, and how Natrade helps industries across Malaysia select and maintain accurate gauges.
Not all pressure gauges are created equal. Using the wrong gauge for your system can result in:
For example, using a brass-case gauge in a chlorine line or selecting a 0–100 bar gauge for a 10-bar system compromises accuracy and lifespan. Natrade offers guidance on choosing range, material, and connection type suited to Malaysian process conditions.
In high-vibration environments—such as near compressors, pumps, or heavy machinery—standard gauges can become unreliable. The pointer may:
This leads to inconsistent or unreadable data. To avoid this, glycerin-filled or silicone-dampened pressure gauges should be used to absorb vibration and stabilise the pointer.
Mounting a pressure gauge incorrectly—such as on an angle, with excessive pipe stress, or without proper support—can skew readings over time.
Common mistakes in Malaysia’s industrial settings include:
Correct orientation, use of siphons for steam, and flexible connectors in vibrating installations help improve long-term gauge accuracy.
In Malaysia’s tropical climate, ambient temperatures in outdoor installations can exceed 40°C. Combined with hot process media like steam or oil, this can cause:
For high-temperature applications, use temperature-compensated or remote-sensing gauges. Install cooling elements such as siphon loops or capillaries where needed.
Frequent fluctuations in pressure—caused by reciprocating pumps, valve slamming, or fluid hammer—can cause:
This is particularly common in boiler houses, irrigation pumping stations, and food processing plants. Pulsation dampeners or liquid-filled gauges reduce the effect of these shocks and prolong gauge life.
In slurry lines, dusty pneumatic lines, or viscous liquid systems, the inlet to the pressure gauge may become blocked, causing:
To prevent this, use chemical seals, diaphragm seals, or isolators with flush ports. Natrade offers complete assemblies with flange or threaded connections for easy maintenance.
A misbehaving pressure gauge can cause confusion—but how do you know if it’s the gauge or the system?
Field signs of faulty gauges include:
Simple diagnostics include comparing readings with a reference test gauge, using a pressure calibrator pump, or switching the gauge between identical systems to see if the issue persists.
At Natrade, we also offer portable test kits and pressure calibration services for plant teams needing routine verification.
Accurate pressure gauge readings are crucial for maintaining safety, efficiency, and compliance in Malaysia’s diverse industrial sectors. From water utilities and HVAC to chemical plants and manufacturing floors, avoiding common gauge errors can prevent equipment damage, downtime, and costly misjudgements.
At Natrade, we provide a comprehensive range of industrial pressure gauges—dry or liquid-filled, panel-mounted or remote-sensing—along with accessories like snubbers, seals, and siphons. Our expert team helps you select the right gauge, install it correctly, and maintain accuracy over time.
To request a product catalogue, schedule a consultation, or learn more about our pressure measurement solutions, we invite you to register your interest today through Natrade’s official platform.
North American Trade Source (NATS) is a trusted distributor of premium oil and gas equipment, committed to delivering innovative solutions and exceptional customer service worldwide.
