CWEA Maintenance Technologist Practice Test

The design of a bourdon tube in a pressure gauge is usually?

1. Spiral shape

2. Rectangular

3. C-Shape

4. Flat

The correct answer is: C-Shape

The design of a bourdon tube in a pressure gauge is typically C-shaped to effectively measure pressure. This shape is advantageous because, when pressure is applied to the inside of the tube, the tube tends to straighten out from its curved form. The degree to which it straightens correlates directly to the pressure applied, allowing for a precise measurement. The C-shape provides a longer length for the tube within a compact space, maximizing the sensitivity and responsiveness of the gauge while maintaining durability. This design helps to minimize the effects of external factors such as vibration or temperature changes that could impair accurate readings. Other shapes like spiral, rectangular, or flat may not provide the same level of accuracy or sensitivity due to their structural characteristics and the way they respond to pressure changes.