What is the arc span of a typical Bourdon tube used for pressure measurement?

The arc span of a typical Bourdon tube used for pressure measurement is commonly 270 degrees. This design has been chosen to optimize the performance and sensitivity of the pressure gauge. The Bourdon tube works based on the principle that the tube will deform as pressure is applied, and the readout mechanism translates this deformation into a pressure reading.

By having a 270-degree arc span, the gauge allows for a larger movement of the pointer over a greater range of the pressure scale, which provides better resolution and accuracy. This span also makes it easier for users to read the measurement as it increases visibility on the dial.

In contrast to other arc spans, such as 180 degrees, 360 degrees, or 90 degrees, a 270-degree arc effectively balances the need for a clear, readable scale while still being sensitive to small changes in pressure, which is crucial for many applications in power engineering. Therefore, 270 degrees is the optimal choice for standard Bourdon tube gauges.