Measuring pressure in the engine compartment of an aircraft. Pressure sensor for a test bench

Many engineers have encountered the situation where the process of measuring pressure in the engine compartment of an aircraft can be very complex and lengthy. Temperature, vibrations, and many other factors affect the process. So how do you create a method of sequential and accurate measurements? After all, a sensor capable of functioning under constantly changing conditions and providing accurate, reproducible results is still needed. Keller engineers have researched this area for months to get as close as possible to this problem. They developed a whole series of pressure sensors for test stands that meet all testing requirements. Taking into account all the needs that may vary depending on specific temperature requirements, size constraints, sealing material, as well as various output signals. We will consider all these requirements when using our pressure sensors.

Continuing the discussion using the example of the engine compartment, let's focus on oil pressure. One of the first problems encountered when choosing a pressure sensor for such tests is heat resistance. Therefore, it is necessary to decide whether the sensor can be installed separately or if it requires a heat shield or impulse tube. It is especially important whether the sensor will function properly when all components begin to heat up. Thus, both points play an important role in choosing a reliable pressure sensor. At Keller, the line of pressure sensors includes excellent temperature resistance up to 200°C and short-term resistance above 1000°C.  However, the correct, logical positioning in the engine compartment also allows you not to worry about strong temperature effects on the sensor components.

When choosing the sensor location, constantly moving and changing temperature values, we observe the influence of these factors on the readings and select the most advantageous location to obtain accurate measurement results.

The size of the sensor also plays a very important role in its selection, as free space in this area is minimized. Specifically for oil pressure testing in the engine compartment, Keller has developed a compact and low-profile pressure sensor that can be easily mounted in any measurement area. Thanks to a wide variety of models, it is possible to select the ideal sensor for precise measurements. The smallest, most compact sensor is the M5 HB, with a diameter of 6.2 mm. This small size allows it to be fixed in any part of the tested engine without spending time developing a complex mounting scheme. The sensor is easy to move and mount in search of the most convenient location for accurate measurement readings. Overall, this significantly saves time and effort when you are focused on a timely and efficient series of tests. The microchips of the M5 HB converter are specially designed to take advantage of the high dynamic range of the M5 sensor. Although the signal is retuned in real time via a high-precision digital compensation circuit, it remains fully analog. This allows maintaining the full dynamic range and high accuracy of the sensor across the entire bandwidth from 0 to 50 kHz (optionally up to 100 kHz).

Sensors of the M5 series include a stable silicon sensing element soldered on the back directly to the reference element, specially designed to create perfect hydrodynamics. This design does not have the drawbacks associated with the use of sealing materials, adhesives, separating membranes, or capillary tubes in high-temperature environments, making it ideal for testing engine systems. For tests involving temperature spikes, a sensor modification with forced air cooling can be chosen, so your pressure sensor for the test stand can withstand temperatures above 1000°C.

Heat, mounting method, pressure range, and many other factors will constantly change during the test. On top of that, we need a test pressure transducer that can fit into the engine compartment we are testing and consistently produce accurate results. We can solve all these issues by using a Keller pressure sensor for our testing mode. Even under the influence of high temperature and pressure, you will be convinced that this sensor will perfectly and unequivocally fulfill all the tasks assigned to it.

If you need to select a pressure sensor for a test stand, you can do so in the catalog or by contacting our qualified specialists.