Basic Theory Physics

The difference between gauge pressure and absolute pressure

Deciding whether you need to measure gauge pressure or absolute pressure is important. If you choose the wrong reference your measurements could be off by 1 bar which can be a significant error depending on the situation

Gauge pressure

Gauge pressure is the most commonly used pressure reference because it uses the atmospheric pressure as a base value and any type of chamber will equalize with the pressure in the atmosphere when vented. This means that it is not necessary to subtract the atmospheric pressure to measure the change in pressure, which makes it the natural reference point for the majority of processes and test procedures. Gauge pressure, also called effective pressure, is generally signified by barg and psig (or bare and psie).

Absolute pressure

Absolute pressure is less used as a pressure reference because it will always be referred to a perfect vacuum or zero pressure. That is why the applications where absolute pressure is used as a measurement are often more specialized. Absolute pressure is commonly signified by bara or psia.

When to measure what?

Generally, if you want to measure any type of pressure that is influenced by the pressure in the atmosphere you use gauge pressure as a reference to see the total pressure minus the atmospheric pressure. This is used for example to measure the output of pressure of air compressors. If you want to measure pressures that are not influenced by the atmospheric pressure you use absolute pressure as a reference. An example would be leak testing a sturdy and completely sealed container. The difference between bar gauge and bar absolute is always equal to the atmospheric pressure.