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Fluid Statics—Pressure Measurement and Hydrostatics

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• Robabeh Jazaei 2  

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Jazaei, R. (2020). Fluid Statics—Pressure Measurement and Hydrostatics. In: Fluid Mechanics Experiments. Synthesis Lectures on Mechanical Engineering. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-79673-9_3

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Manometer vs. Piezometer

What's the difference.

Manometer and piezometer are both instruments used to measure pressure, but they have different applications and designs. A manometer is typically used to measure the pressure of gases or liquids in closed systems, such as in pipes or tanks. It consists of a U-shaped tube filled with a liquid, with one end connected to the system being measured. The difference in liquid levels in the two arms of the tube indicates the pressure. On the other hand, a piezometer is used to measure the pressure of liquids in open systems, such as groundwater or reservoirs. It consists of a tube inserted into the liquid, with the pressure being measured by the height to which the liquid rises in the tube. While both instruments serve the purpose of pressure measurement, their designs and applications make them suitable for different scenarios.

Further Detail

Introduction.

When it comes to measuring pressure, two commonly used instruments are the manometer and the piezometer. Both devices serve the purpose of measuring pressure, but they differ in their design, functionality, and applications. In this article, we will explore the attributes of manometers and piezometers, highlighting their similarities and differences.

A manometer is a device used to measure the pressure of a fluid, typically a gas or a liquid. It consists of a U-shaped tube partially filled with a liquid, such as mercury or water. The fluid in the manometer responds to the pressure being measured, causing a change in its height within the tube. The height difference between the two sides of the U-tube indicates the pressure difference between the two points.

One of the key attributes of a manometer is its simplicity. It is relatively easy to construct and use, making it a popular choice for measuring pressure in various applications. Additionally, manometers can measure both positive and negative pressures, making them versatile instruments.

Manometers are commonly used in HVAC systems, where they help monitor and control air pressure. They are also used in laboratories, industrial processes, and fluid mechanics experiments. However, one limitation of manometers is that they are not suitable for measuring high pressures, as the height difference in the U-tube becomes impractical to read.

A piezometer, on the other hand, is a device specifically designed to measure the pressure of a fluid at a specific point. Unlike a manometer, a piezometer does not rely on a liquid column for measurement. Instead, it utilizes a pressure-sensitive element, such as a diaphragm or a strain gauge, to directly measure the pressure.

The primary advantage of a piezometer is its ability to provide accurate and precise pressure measurements. Since it does not rely on fluid height, it can measure both low and high pressures with ease. Piezometers are commonly used in geotechnical engineering to measure pore water pressure in soil and rock formations. They are also used in hydrological studies to monitor groundwater levels and in oil and gas industries for well monitoring.

Another attribute of piezometers is their durability and resistance to harsh environments. They are designed to withstand extreme temperatures, corrosive substances, and high vibrations, making them suitable for various industrial applications.

While both manometers and piezometers serve the purpose of measuring pressure, they differ in several aspects. Let's compare their attributes:

A manometer typically consists of a U-shaped tube filled with a liquid, while a piezometer utilizes a pressure-sensitive element, such as a diaphragm or a strain gauge. The design of a manometer is relatively simple, whereas a piezometer requires more complex engineering to ensure accurate pressure measurement.

Measurement Range

Manometers can measure both positive and negative pressures, but they are limited in their range. They are suitable for low to moderate pressure measurements but become impractical for high pressures. On the other hand, piezometers can measure a wide range of pressures, from low to extremely high, making them suitable for various applications.

Piezometers are known for their high accuracy and precision in pressure measurement. They provide direct readings without the need for calculations or conversions. Manometers, while generally accurate, may require additional calculations to determine the pressure difference based on the fluid height in the U-tube.

Applications

Manometers find applications in HVAC systems, laboratories, and fluid mechanics experiments. They are suitable for measuring pressure differences in gases and liquids. Piezometers, on the other hand, are commonly used in geotechnical engineering, hydrological studies, and oil and gas industries. They are ideal for measuring pressure at specific points and in harsh environments.

Manometers are generally more affordable compared to piezometers. Their simple design and construction make them cost-effective instruments for pressure measurement. Piezometers, due to their complex engineering and specialized components, tend to be more expensive.

In conclusion, manometers and piezometers are both valuable instruments for measuring pressure, but they differ in their design, functionality, and applications. Manometers are simple, versatile, and suitable for low to moderate pressure measurements. They find applications in HVAC systems, laboratories, and fluid mechanics experiments. On the other hand, piezometers provide accurate and precise pressure measurements, covering a wide range of pressures. They are commonly used in geotechnical engineering, hydrological studies, and oil and gas industries. The choice between a manometer and a piezometer depends on the specific requirements of the application and the desired pressure range.

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6.8: Manometers

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A Manometer is a device to measure pressures. A common simple manometer consists of a U shaped tube of glass filled with some liquid. Typically the liquid is mercury because of its high density.

We conclude with a discussion of the units for pressure measurements. Recall that pressure is defined as the force per area. The SI unit for pressure is the pascal , which is one newton per square meter .

For example, atmospheric pressure varies with the weather and is usually about 100 kilopascals. Another common unit for measuring atmospheric pressure is mm of mercury , whose value is usually about 760 mm. Put another way, if the closed end of the tube in Case 3 above contains a vacuum, the height h is about 760 mm.

In many situations, measuring pressures in units of length of the liquid in the manometer is perfectly adequate. The remainder of this document discusses how to convert from those units to pascals.

The figure to the right shows a cylinder of liquid of height h and area A .

The pressure p is this force divided by the area A of the face of the cylinder.

The volume is the area A of the face of the cylinder times its height h .

So, the pressure p is:

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Science Struck

The Working Principle, Types, And Applications of a Manometer

A device used to measure the pressure at any point in a fluid, manometers are also used to measure the pressure of gas and air. This ScienceStruck article explains the working principle of a manometer, and provides a review of different types of manometers and their applications.

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A sphygmomanometer, a type of manometer, is commonly used to check blood pressure in humans. Systolic pressure reading is the mercury reading on the pressure gauge when the pulse is first heard, while diastolic pressure reading is when the pulse can first no longer be heard.

‘Pressure’ or the intensity of pressure is defined as force per unit area, or P = F/A , where P is measured in N/m 2 . Fluid pressure is measured with respect to varying individual reference that is device or procedural specific. When it is measured with respect to absolute zero (or complete vacuum), it is called absolute pressure. When it is measured either above or below atmospheric pressure, it is called gauge pressure.

The term manometer is derived from the ancient Greek words ‘manós’, meaning thin or rare, and ‘métron’. A manometer works on the principle of hydrostatic equilibrium and is used for measuring the pressure (static pressure) exerted by a still liquid or gas. Hydrostatic equilibrium states that the pressure at any point in a fluid at rest is equal, and its value is just the weight of the overlying fluid. In its simplest form, a manometer is a U-shaped tube consisting of an incompressible fluid like water or mercury. It is inexpensive and does not need calibration.

As seen in the figure, the U-shaped tube filled with liquid measures the differential pressure, i.e., the difference in levels ‘h’ between the two limbs gives the pressure difference (p 1 – p 2 ) between them. When pressure is applied at limb 1, the fluid recedes in limb 1, and its level rises in limb 2. This rise continues till a balance is struck between the unit weight of fluid and the pressure applied. If the pressure applied at one opening; say limb 1 of the U-tube, is atmospheric pressure, the difference gives the gauge pressure at limb 2.

h = (p 1 – p 2 ) ρ g

where, ρ = density of the liquid used in manometer

Hence, ρg = specific weight of the liquid

Manometers are generally classified into simple manometers and  differential manometers . Let us take a closer look at the each individual type and their working principle in detail.

Types of Simple Manometers

▶ piezometer.

As shown in the figure, one end of the piezometer is open to atmospheric pressure, and the other end is connected to the point A, where pressure is to be measured. The rise of liquid will be in accordance with the pressure at point A. If h is the height of liquid in the piezometer, pressure at point A is given by:

Pressure in N/m 2 = ρ × g × h

▶ U-Tube Manometer

It consists of a glass tube bent like the letter ‘U’. In this type of manometer, balancing a column of liquid is done by another column of same or other liquid. One end of the U-tube is attached to the point where pressure is to be measured, while the other end is open to atmospheric pressure. The pressure at point B in the figure is given by:

P = ρ 2 g h 2 – ρ 1 g h 1

where, ρ 2 = density of heavy liquid h 2 = height of heavy liquid above reference line ρ 1 = density of light liquid h 1 = height of light liquid above reference line.

▶ Cistern or Well Type Manometer:

As shown in the figure, the well area is larger than the area of the tube, denoted by A. The rise in liquid level in the tube is considered while that in the well is ignored. If p 1 and p 2 are absolute pressures applied as shown in figure:

h p 1 A – p 2 A = Ahρg h = (p 1 – p 2 )/ρg

▶ Inclined Type Manometer

It is similar to a well type manometer in construction. The only difference being that the vertical column limb is inclined at an angle θ. Inclined manometers are used for accurate measurement of small pressure.

Types of Differential Manometers

Differential Manometers are used to measure the pressure difference between two points in a pipe or between two different pipes. The principle and working of the types of differential manometers are given below.

▶ U- tube Differential Manometer

In the adjoining figure, the two points A and B are in liquids having different specific gravity. Also, A and B are at different levels. A liquid which is denser than the two fluids is used in the U tube, which is immiscible with the other fluids. Let the pressure at point A be P A and that at point B be P B .

P A – P B = g × h (ρ g – ρ 1 )

where, h = difference in mercury level in the U-tube ρ g = density of heavy liquid ρ 1 = density of liquid A.

▶ Inverted U-tube Differential Manometer

This type of manometer is used when the difference between the densities of the two liquids is small. Similar to the previous type, A and B are points at different levels with liquids having different specific gravity. It consists of a glass tube shaped like an inverted letter ‘U’ and is similar to two piezometers connected end to end. Air is present at the center of the two limbs. As the two points in consideration are at different pressures, the liquid rises in the two limbs. Air or mercury is used as the manometric fluid. If P A is the pressure at point A and P B is the pressure at point B;

P A – P B = ρ 1 × g × h 1 – ρ 2 × g × h 2 – ρ g × g × h

where, ρ 1 = density of liquid at A ρ 2 = density of liquid at B ρ g = density of light liquid h = difference of light liquid

Digital Manometer

A digital manometer uses a microprocessor and pressure transducer to sense slight changes in pressure. It gives the pressure readout on a digital screen. It measures differential pressure across two inputs. An analog/digital output in proportion to the instantaneous pressure can be obtained.

Digital manometers report positive, negative, or differential measurements between pressures. With the integration of an anemometer, flow readings can also be recorded on a digital manometer.

Manometer Accuracy

Current standards for accuracy require that manometers be within +/- 3 mm Hg (mm of mercury) of the reference or within +/- 3 mm Hg or 2% of the reading (whichever is greater) for extended temperature ranges.

Accuracy in Liquid Manometers

• U-tube type: +/- ½ of minor scale graduation
• Well type: +/- ½ of minor scale graduation
• Inclined type: +/- ½ of minor scale graduation

Accuracy in Digital Manometers

• General purpose: +/- 0.025 – 0.1% F.S.
• Calibrating: +/- 0.025 – 0.1% F.S.

Manometer Applications

• Used in the maintenance of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, low pressure pneumatic or gas systems.
• Construction of bridges, installing swimming pools and other engineering applications.
• Climate forecasting.
• Clinical applications like measuring blood pressure and in physiotherapy.
• Piezometers are used to measure the pressure in pipes where the liquid is in motion.

A manometer is one of the earliest and simplest devices used for measurement of gauge pressure and differential pressures. As mentioned in this discourse, it has myriad uses in different fields.

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Piezometer Tube: Pressure Measurement Using Fluid Statics

Piezometer tubes are instruments used to measure fluid pressure at a specific point within a body of fluid, such as water in a well or reservoir. They consist of a narrow tube inserted into the fluid, allowing the pressure to be read via the height of the fluid column relative to a reference point.

In this article, we will discuss the operating principle of piezometer tubes, their types, materials and components, as well as their applications in engineering.

What Is A Piezometer Tube

A piezometer tube, also known as a piezometer, is a device used to measure pressure within systems such as pipes, tanks, or soil. It consists of a tube attached to the side of the container or area being measured, as shown in the diagram below.

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In the case of pipes and tanks, one end of the tube is usually connected to the wall, while the other end remains open to the atmosphere. When measuring pressure in soil, the other end of the piezometer tube is typically connected to a permeable tip to measure water pore pressure in the soil.

The principle of operation for a piezometer tube is based on a simple manometric measurement, where the height of the liquid in the tube correlates to the pressure at the point of connection. This is governed by the equation:

• P = gauge pressure [Pa]
• ρ = density of the liquid inside the tube [Pa]
• g = acceleration due to gravity [9.81 m/s 2 ]
• h = height of the liquid column [m]

It is important to note that this equation reflects gauge pressure. To calculate absolute pressure , the atmospheric pressure needs to be added to the equation.

Usage And Limitations

Piezometers are primarily used in engineering to measure the gauge pressure in pipes and vessels. Since they are open to the atmosphere, they are ineffective for measuring vacuum pressures.

Additionally, the range of pressure they can measure is limited, depending on the density of the fluid inside the tube and the height of the tube. This makes them impractical for large pressures, as extremely long tubes would be necessary, which are not feasible for some applications. On the other hand, for very small pressures, the accuracy can be compromised by surface tension effects at the fluid-air interface.

It is important to ensure that the fluid used in the piezometer must be compatible with the materials of the tube to avoid degradation and ensure accurate readings. Understanding the capabilities and restrictions of the piezometer tube is important— when it can be reliably used and when alternative methods may be required.

Types Of Piezometer Tubes

There are various kinds of piezometer tubes used in different geotechnical applications, including open standpipe, closed system, and portable probe types.

Open Standpipe Piezometers

Open standpipe piezometers are the simplest type, consisting of a simple tube inserted into the ground, with its open end allowing water from the surrounding soil or rock to enter. Water rises in the tube to a level that corresponds to the pressure in the pore space.

These are typically used at depths of less than 152 meters, where they can be clustered to provide data on vertical flow conditions. They offer a cost-effective means for shallow applications, but their utility diminishes with depth due to potential for error from water column weight.

Closed System Piezometers

Closed system piezometers are sealed units that prevent water from freely entering the tube, suitable for depths greater than 152 meters. Instead, they use a transducer at the tip to measure pressure directly and often include a data logger. This ensures accurate readings unaffected by the water column and are more cost-effective for deeper installations.

This type includes vibrating-wire and pneumatic piezometers.

Portable Piezometer Probes

Portable piezometer probes are designed for temporary installations and allow for rapid assessment of fluid pressure at various depths. These devices can be inserted into a pre-drilled hole or pushed into softer ground. Versatile and user-friendly, portable probes facilitate on-site decisions and immediate data gathering for studies that do not require long-term monitoring.

Materials and Components

Tube material.

Typically, a rigid, non-collapsible tube material is employed to withstand pressure and temperature without deforming. Glass or acrylic are common choices for their clarity and chemical inertness.

A simple, straight tube design is standard, often marked with graduations for precise measurement. Dimensions vary, but a commonly used size has an internal diameter of about 10 to 25 millimeters.

Connectors And Sealants

To ensure a leak-proof system, high-quality sealants and threaded connectors are used. These need to be compatible with the tube material and the fluid being measured. To assemble, the technician clean-cuts the tube, applies sealant to the connectors, and carefully aligns the tube with the system piping, minimizing leaks and measurement errors.

Applications In Engineering

In civil and environmental engineering, piezometers are essential tools for monitoring the hydraulic properties of soil and rock. They measure pore water pressures, which is essential for assessing soil stability and predicting the movement of subsurface fluids. The application of piezometer tubes commonly includes the following areas:

Slope Stability

Piezometers gauge pore water pressure within soil, which directly affects slope stability. High pore pressures can lead to slope failures, and thus, continuous monitoring is important. Early detection of changes can prompt preventive actions to avoid landslides or slope collapses.

Construction

Piezometers provide data for assessing conditions for excavation and foundational work to ensure safe and sound construction. They help in determining dewatering requirements for excavation sites, by assessing hydrostatic levels and understanding groundwater behavior.

Dam Monitoring:

The structural integrity of dams can be monitored with piezometers to detect any seepage or potential points of failure. Regular monitoring helps in maintenance planning and can trigger alarms in case of critical levels of water pressure.

Hydrogeology

Piezometers are installed to analyze aquifer characteristics. Through the generated data, the estimation of hydraulic conductivity is possible. It also aids in the design and assessment of contaminant migration in groundwater management.

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Manometer: Definition, Working Principle, Types, Advantages [Notes & PDF]

Table of Contents

What is Manometer?

A manometer is a popular device utilized for estimating the fluid pressure about an exterior origin which is normally evaluated to be the globe’s environment.

An easy manometer can be assembled by partly restoring an apparent plastic duct with a coloured fluid to enable the fluid level to be handily examined.

The duct is again intended into a U-shape and repaired in a vertical situation. The categories of the liquid in the two upright sections should be comparable at this level, as they are presently perceived to be the same difficulty.

This category is accordingly substantial and identified as the zero level of the manometer. The instrument is positioned against the measuring plate to enable any disparity in the length of the two sections.

This length differential can exist utilized rapidly to give rise to the comparable comparison between various experiment stresses. This kind of manometer can furthermore be employed to evaluate the absolute strength when the consistency of the liquid in the manometer is remembered.

How does the Manometer work?

The working of a manometer is pursued as; The meter in the instrument includes a metal shaft or cylinder. During the measurement of a gas or fluid, the flexible cylinder of the gauge is clutched.

Thereafter, the shaft is distorted, which is restored to the instrument, enabling you to examine the outcome.

This instrument contains a U formed duct or tube in which the fluid is compressed. This is utilized to assess the pressure which is unspecified by the balancing gravity force and momentum due to gravity.

The scales are created on the tube in phrases of mm.

The principle on which a manometer works with the vapour or fluid pressure estimate is incredibly easy.

Hydrostatic stability in the instrument indicates that the stress when fluid is at rest is comparable at any level.

For Illustration, if both the ends of the U-tube live left open to the environment then the strength on each aspect will be identical.

Advantages of Manometer:

• It is economical and adequate for low-pressure entreaty.
• It has a simple construction, decent perceptivity, nice precision and reasonable procedure and formation.
• The manometers do not have to be calibrated against any criterion; the stress variation can be evaluated from the early principles.
• The manometer is accessible for a huge range of restoring liquids of fluctuating certain gravity.

Disadvantages of Manometer:

• Manometers are vast and thick
• It needs grounding
• No fixed quotation is accessible
• In the manometer, the omission is submitted due to moisture
• It has no over a latitude preservation
• It has a miserable energetic response  

Different Types of Manometer and their uses:

There are mainly three different types of manometers and those are:

• Simple manometer
• Differential manometer and
• Micromanometer

#1. Simple Manometer:

A simple manometer contains a pipe configuration where one edge of the duct is attached to the level in the liquid in which the pressure is to be assumed and the further edge is maintained open to the environment.

Generally, It contains a glass tube or pipe having one edge connected to a point and the other end continuing open. These types of manometers can be used to differentiate the cadenced pressure or void pressure.

Different Types of Simple Manometer are:

• U-tube (For Gauge and Vacuum Pressure)
• Sensitive or Inclined tube and
• Single Column Manometer

#1.1 U-Tube Manometer:

The U-tube manometer is the incentive for the pressure measurement equipment. Its name comes from the U-shaped construct when the two edges of an adjustable duct full of fluid are put forward to protect the fluid from attaining out of the edges.

The U-tube manometer occurs as a ‘liquid’ equilibrium manometer. The height variation is estimated on a graduated plating.

The duct carries the metal mercury or any different liquid or fluid whose particular gravity is extensively elevated than the certain sincerity of the fluid whose strength is to be estimated.

For gauge pressure: In the gauge pressure measurement the U-tube manometer is used to equalize the weight of the fluid on one side of the u-tube against the strength instructed to the other side of the tube.

The distinction in the elevation of the fluid exemplifies the pressure propelling the fluid down to one side of the tube and up the other side.

For vacuum pressure : In the vacuum pressure when a vacuum is connected to one side of the U-tube, the watery increases in that side of the tube and plummets on the further side. The length variation which extensively amounts to the readings above and below zero level reflects the quantity of vacuum. The devices which operate these principles are called manometers.

U-Tube Manometer Advatages:

• The strategy of using U – Tube manometer is very easy.
• Pressure measurement with U – Tube manometer is relatively economical.
• U – Tube manometer will deliver the detailed pressure examination.
• U – Tube manometer is very understandable in construction.

U-Tube Manometer Disadvantages:

• The fluid will be uncovered to the environment in a u-tube manometer and accordingly, the fluid must be neat and non-toxic.
•  In different when head will be minor as it will be extremely tough to calculate the pressure if elevation will be small.

#1.2. Piezometer:

The piezometers are devices that are used to measure the fluid pressure in a system by measuring the elevation to which a column of the fluid increases against earnest and it is also called geotechnical detectors and It is used for the measurement of pressure of the pore water through piezometric levels on the surface.

The piezometer is designed to measure the pressure of pore water in the ground, establishments, solid structures and gravel fill.

Piezometer works on the principle of conversion of liquid pressure to a regularity signal via a diaphragm and a stressed steel cord.

When a magnetic coil is used for excitation, the steel cord vibrates at its normal frequency. A piezometer is used in foundations, monitoring of soil barriers, strength and examination of soil and formation supervision.

#1.3. Sensitive manometer or Inclined tube manometer:

An inclined tube or a sensitive manometer is a reasonable and economical device. The Inclined tube manometer is normally utilized for calculating differential pressure in a hollow. It corresponds to a U-tube Manometer.

This device comprises two intercommunicating crates restored with filtered liquid.

These types of manometers give better readability by lengthening an upright differential with a likely to demonstrate column, providing additional graduations per unit of upright length and improving the instrument’s perceptivity and precision.

The sensitive manometer is useful for conserving the most accurate pressure points for industries’ steam requisitions.

The working principle of the manometer comprises the measurement of the pressure the one tube of the Inclined tube manometer features into a puddle and the other one of the manometer is inclined as per the requirements of angle.

#1.4. Single Column Manometer:

The single-column manometer is a  modified version of a U-tube manometer in which one side of the manometer is a big waterhole and the other side of the manometer is a minor duct or tube which is upright to the environment.

The Single column manometer immediately provides the strength by assessing the length in the other component and expected to the huge cross-sectional region of the waterhole, for any deviation in pressure, the alteration can be excluded.

Normally there are two kinds of single column manometer based on the component of the manometer, a Vertical single column manometer and an Inclined single column manometer.

2. Differential Manometer:

The differential manometer is equipment that is used to compare the pressure instead of measuring the pressure. It is mostly used to measure the pressure difference between the two points or two tubes.

It is also used to inspect the leaks in the pipes as the leakage leads to pressure unevenness hence unbalancing of the manometric liquid.

The water level in a compartment is also gauged by this manometer and it is also employed as a fluid level indicator in boiler equipment.

The differential manometers have a simple construction and they are cost-effective and easy to maintain. Differential manometers can be easily replaced and have little or no operating cost.

Differential manometers are categorized into two kinds:

• U-tube differential and
• Inverted U-tube differential.

#2.1 U-tube differential manometer:

The U-tube differential manometer encloses a glass duct intent into a U shape. Both the ends of the U-tube in the manometer are attached to the levels whose pressure is to be measured.

In the U-tube, a type of fluid known as manometric fluid is injected. The manometric fluid has higher specific gravity than the fluids present in the pipe.

Primarily, mercury is used as a manometric fluid as it has a high specific gravity, does not stick to the glass and is totally visible. It can also be used at a large span of temperature.

#2.2 Inverted U-tube differential manometer:

The inverted U-tube manometer is also used for measuring the differences in the pressure of the fluids.

The vacuum above the fluid in the manometer is restored with air which can be conceded or evicted through the faucet on the top; this is to modify the level of the fluid in the tube of the manometer.

Mercury is widely used as a manometric fluid because it has some integrity under typical circumstances like permanent viscosity.

#3. Micromanometer:

Generally, it is an apparatus used to demonstrate and measure the pressure or a manometer is equipment that computes air pressure utilizing a container with a “U”-shaped duct that is open at one or both ends.

The elevation of the liquid on the open side of the U-tube will be bigger on that viewpoint when air pressure is smaller than the vapour pressure and deeper on the upright side when the air pressure surpasses the vapour pressure.

Micromanometers calculates the total, static and velocity pressures, as well as pressure, lowers across the diffusers, fans, filters and coils.

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• Pump vs Compressor
• Francis Turbine
• Kaplan Turbine
• Impulse Turbine
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• Difference Between Impulse Turbine and Reaction Turbine
• What is a Pump? What are the different types of Pump and their Working?
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Reference [External Links]:

• https://koyapete.weebly.com/uploads/1/3/6/4/13645543/fluid_mech_lec._6.pdf
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pressure_measurement
• https://byjus.com/physics/manometer/

Conclusion:

Here we finally studied the Manometer and Types in detail. I hope you have understood this topic in detail. If yes then do not forget to share with your friends and family.

I have also explained the different topics of  Fluid mechanics and machinery . If you want to read you can go through the URL attached above or you can search.

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Amrit Kumar is a Mechanical Engineer and founder of Themechanicalengineering.com. I have done a Diploma and Engineering degree in Mechanical and writes content since 2016.

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Manometers: Definition, Types, Working, Advantages [PDF]

In this post, you will learn what is  Manometer and how it works with Its Working principle, Applications, Advantages, Types of Manometers, and more.

What is Manometer?

The manometer is a device used to measure pressure at a point in a fluid via balancing the column of fluid by the same or another fluid. It is commonly known as a U-shaped tube that is filled with a liquid, gas, steam, etc.

In addition, you can use it as part of your laboratory experiment to indicate the air pressure on a liquid column. This is an instrument that measures air pressure using a container with”U”-shaped letter tubes open at one or both ends.

When air pressure is less than the gas pressure, the fluid height on the open side of the manometer will be higher. When the air pressure exceeds the gas pressure, the fluid height on the other side of the manometer will be lower.

Read Also: Different types of Flow Control Valves [Explained Their Working] PDF

Types of Manometer

Following are the three different types of manometers:

• Simple manometer
• Differential U-tube manometers
• Inverted U-tube manometer
• Inclined manometer
• Small manometer

Read also: Pressure Gauges: Types, Working, Applications and more

#1 Simple Manometer

A simple manometer has a glass tube that’s one end is connected to a point where pressure is to be measured and the other end remains open to the atmosphere.

The simple manometer is further classified into four types:

• For gauge pressure
• For vacuum pressure
• Single Column Manometer
• Inclined tube manometer or Sensitive Manometer

#1 Piezometer

For measuring the pressure inside a vessel or pipe in which liquid is there, a tube is attached to the walls of the container or pipe in which the liquid remains so liquid can rise in the tube. By determining the height to which liquid rises and using the relation p = ρgh, a gauge pressure of the liquid can be determined.

Such a device is known as Piezometer. To avoid capillary forces, a piezometer tube has to be about 1/2 inch or more. It is essential that the opening of the instrument be tangential to any fluid motion, otherwise, an incorrect reading will result.

Read also: Fluid: Properties of Fluids [Briefly Explained]

#2 U-tube Manometer

As shown in the figure it consists of a glass tube bent in V-shape, with one end is connected to a point at which pressure is to be measured and the other end remaining open to the atmosphere.

The tube carries mercury or any other liquid or fluid whose specific gravity is much higher than the specific gravity of the liquid whose pressure is to be measured.

#3 Single Column Manometer

Consider a vertical tube micromanometer connected to a pipe containing light liquid under very high pressure. The pressure in the pipe will force the lighter liquid in the basin to push the heavier liquid downwards.

Due to the larger area of the basin, the fall of a heavy liquid level will be very small. This downward movement of heavy liquid into the basin will result in a significant rise of heavy liquid in the right limb.

#4 Inclined Tube Manometer

If the vertical tube of the micromanometer is made inclined as shown in the figure then it is called an inclined tube micromanometer.

This type of inclined micromanometer is more sensitive than the vertical tube type. Due to inclination, the distance moved by the heavy liquid in the right limb is comparatively more. Thus it can give a higher reading for the given pressure.

Read also: What are the Applications of Pascal’s Law?

#2 Differential Manometer

The differential manometer is a device used to measure the pressure difference between two points in a pipe or in two different pipes.

A differential manometer consists of a U-tube, containing a heavy liquid, with two ends connected by points whose pressure difference is to be measured:

The differential manometer is further classified into three types :

• Two piezometer manometer
• U-tube differential manometer
• Inverted differential manometer

#1 Two Piezometer Manometer

It consists of two piezometers mounted at two different gauge points where the pressure difference is to be measured. The pressure difference between the two points can be simply measured by the difference in the level of liquid between the two tubes. It possesses some limitations in the form of piezometers.

#2 U-tube Differential Manometer

It is a device that is used to measure the pressure difference between two points in a pipe or between two different pipes. This manometer is consists of a U-shaped tube containing a heavy liquid.

The two ends are connected to the two desired points in the pipe whose difference of pressure is required. Let pressure at point A be more than at point B. Then the greater pressure at A will force the heavy liquid in U-tube to move downwards. This downwards movement of the heavy liquid in the left limb will cause a corresponding rise of the heavy liquid in the right limb.

#3 Inverted Differential Manometer

In these types of manometers, the U-tube is inverted and contains a light liquid. The two ends of the tube are connected to the points whose pressure difference is to be measured.

It is used for measuring the difference in low pressures. The figure shows an inverted U-tube a differential manometer connected to the two points A and B. Let the pressure at point A is more than the pressure at point B.

#3 Small Manometer

These are types of a manometer in that it works based on the principle of an inclined tube manometer. Small manometers or pressure gauges are used to measure very small pressure variations or very small pressure variations.

These manometers are also known as micro-manometer, which is a modified variant of a simple manometer whose part is formed by a large cross-sectional space. It is a highly precise instrument capable of observing very small pressure variations with high accuracy.

Advantages of Manometers

Following are the main advantages of manometer:

• It is simple to construct.
• It has great accuracy.
• Used to measure pressure, temperature, flow and other process variables.

Disadvantages of Manometers

Following are the main disadvantages of manometer:

• The manometer has a smaller dynamic response.
• They are fragile and therefore provide low portability.
• They have small operational limits which are on the order of 1000 kN/m2.
• The density of manometric fluid depends on temperature. Therefore errors may occur due to change in temperature.

Application of Manometers

Following are the main application of the manometer:

• Used in the maintenance of heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems , and gas systems.
• It is used to construct bridges, swimming pools and other engineering purposes.
• Used in climate forecasting.
• In clinical applications such as blood pressure measuring and physiotherapy.

It is an instrument used to measure the fluid pressure at a point to balance a column of fluid by the same or another fluid. These are commonly referred to as U-shaped tubes.

1. Simple manometer 2. Differential U-tube manometer 3. Inverted U-tube manometer 4. Inclined manometer 5. Small manometer

Manometers are used in the maintenance of heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems, and gas systems. Also, they are used in climate forecasting.

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Saif M. is a Mechanical Engineer by profession. He completed his engineering studies in 2014 and is currently working in a large firm as Mechanical Engineer. He is also an author and editor at www.theengineerspost.com

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• Problem 02 - Manometer

Problem In the piezometers of the figure shown, liquid stands 1.37 m above point M. What is the pressure at M in kiloPascal if the liquid is (a) water, (b) oil (sp gr 0.90), (c) mercury, and (d) molasses (sp gr 1.5).  

(a) the column is 1.37 m of water

$p = 13.44 \, \text{kPa}$         answer

(b) the column is 1.37 m of oil (sp gr 0.90)

$p = 12.10 \, \text{kPa}$         answer

(c) the column is 1.37 m of mercury (sp gr 13.6)

$p = 182.78 \, \text{kPa}$         answer

(d) the column is 1.37 m of molasses (sp gr 1.5)

$p = 20.16 \, \text{kPa}$         answer

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Hydraulic assignment 1.docx

A piezometer is either a device used to measure liquid pressure in a system by measuring the height to which a column of the liquid rises against gravity, or a device which measures the pressure (more precisely, the piezometric head) of groundwater at a specific point. A piezometer is designed to measure static pressures, and thus differs from a pitot tube by not being pointed into the fluid flow. Figure SEQ Figure \* ARABIC 1 : Unassembled parts of the push-in standpipe piezometer

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