CRAFT Pressure Gauge: Reliable Pressure Monitoring for Water, HVAC, Fire Protection, and Industrial Systems

The CRAFT Pressure Gauge provides a practical solution for monitoring pressure in water lines, pump systems, HVAC installations, compressed-air networks, industrial utility piping, and other compatible applications.

Accurate pressure indication helps operators evaluate system conditions, confirm pump performance, detect abnormal pressure changes, and support safer equipment operation. Pinoleakpes Corporation offers CRAFT among its pressure-gauge product options for pressure monitoring across different commercial and industrial environments.

Selecting the correct pressure range, dial size, connection size, mounting position, case material, wetted components, and gauge type is essential for dependable measurement and long-term performance.

What Is a CRAFT Pressure Gauge?

A CRAFT Pressure Gauge is a mechanical measuring instrument designed to display the pressure of a liquid or gas inside a pipeline, tank, pump, vessel, or connected system.

The gauge normally includes:

• A circular dial

• A pointer

• A pressure-sensing element

• A threaded process connection

• An internal movement mechanism

• A protective case

• A transparent dial window

Gauge pressure represents pressure measured relative to the surrounding atmospheric pressure. ASME B40.100 covers terminology, construction, safety, installation, testing, and general recommendations for pressure-indicating gauges and related attachments.

How Does a CRAFT Pressure Gauge Work?

Many conventional analog pressure gauges use a Bourdon-tube sensing mechanism.

When fluid or gas enters the gauge through the process connection, internal pressure causes the curved sensing tube to move slightly. A mechanical linkage transfers this movement to the pointer, which rotates across the calibrated dial.

The pointer indicates the pressure according to the selected unit, such as:

• PSI

• Bar

• kPa

• MPa

• kg/cm²

• Another specified pressure unit

Pressure gauges may also use diaphragm, capsule, or other sensing technologies depending on the pressure range, fluid, and intended application.

Main Features of the CRAFT Pressure Gauge

Actual features may vary depending on the selected CRAFT model.

Clear Pressure Indication

The dial and pointer allow operators to check system pressure directly at the installation point.

A properly selected dial size can improve visibility in mechanical rooms, pump stations, equipment panels, and elevated piping systems.

Mechanical Pressure Measurement

Standard analog gauges generally operate without an external electrical power supply.

This makes them practical for local pressure indication in many piping and equipment applications.

Multiple Pressure Ranges

Pressure gauges are available in different measurement ranges to suit low-, medium-, and high-pressure systems.

The selected gauge range should provide readable normal operating pressure while also accommodating expected system fluctuations.

Different Connection Configurations

Depending on the product model, process connections may include:

• Bottom connection

• Lower-back connection

• Center-back connection

• Panel-mount connection

• Direct pipeline connection

Thread type and size must match the connected socket, valve, siphon, manifold, or gauge accessory.

Dry or Liquid-Filled Configuration

Some gauges use a dry case, while others are filled with glycerin or another approved damping liquid.

Liquid-filled gauges may help reduce pointer movement caused by vibration or pressure pulsation. The exact filling liquid and suitability must be confirmed from the product data sheet.

Compact and Accessible Design

A pressure gauge provides a direct visual reading without requiring a separate display unit.

This supports routine inspection, troubleshooting, testing, and maintenance activities.

Benefits of Using a CRAFT Pressure Gauge

Real-Time Local Pressure Monitoring

The gauge provides an immediate visual indication of system pressure at the measuring point.

This helps operators identify whether the pressure is within the expected operating range.

Supports Pump-System Evaluation

A gauge installed on pump suction or discharge piping can help operators observe pressure changes during pump startup, operation, and shutdown.

The readings may assist in assessing system behavior, but they should be evaluated together with flow, pump curves, equipment specifications, and operating conditions.

Helps Identify Abnormal Conditions

Unexpectedly high or low readings may indicate conditions such as:

• Pump malfunction

• Blocked strainers

• Closed or partially closed valves

• Pipeline leakage

• Pressure-regulating problems

• Trapped air

• Excessive system demand

• Pressure surges

• Instrument damage

A pressure gauge does not identify the exact cause by itself, but it provides useful information for system investigation.

Supports Preventive Maintenance

Regular pressure checks can help maintenance personnel compare current readings with normal operating conditions.

Significant changes may indicate that the system requires inspection, adjustment, repair, or calibration.

Improves Operational Awareness

Visible gauges help operators understand pressure conditions before operating valves, pumps, filters, and other connected equipment.

Practical Mechanical Operation

Many analog gauges require no battery or external power for normal local pressure indication.

The selected gauge must be compatible with the fluid, pressure, temperature, environmental conditions, and project specifications.

CRAFT Pressure Gauge for Pump Systems

Pressure gauges are commonly installed near pumps to help monitor suction and discharge conditions.

Pump Suction Side

A suction gauge may help indicate whether adequate inlet pressure is available to the pump.

A low or unstable suction reading may require checking the water source, suction valve, strainer, pipe sizing, air entry, or other system conditions.

Pump Discharge Side

A discharge gauge displays the pressure produced at or near the pump outlet.

The reading may assist operators in evaluating:

• Pump startup performance

• Pressure-switch settings

• System demand

• Valve position

• Discharge restrictions

• Pump operating condition

The gauge must be installed within its allowable pressure and temperature limits.

CRAFT Pressure Gauge for HVAC Systems

In HVAC systems, pressure gauges may be installed on chilled-water lines, cooling-water lines, pumps, strainers, control-valve stations, and equipment connections.

They can help maintenance personnel observe:

• Pump inlet and outlet pressure

• Pressure changes across equipment

• System pressurization

• Possible restriction or blockage

• Operating conditions during commissioning

• Pressure before and after maintenance

Where differential pressure is required, two properly positioned gauges or a dedicated differential-pressure instrument may be necessary.

CRAFT Pressure Gauge for Fire-Protection Systems

A pressure gauge may be used at selected locations in fire-protection water systems, including pump assemblies, alarm-valve arrangements, risers, and testing connections.

However, fire-protection installations must follow the approved design, applicable codes, equipment listings, project specifications, and authority requirements.

Do not assume that every general-service pressure gauge is approved for every fire-protection application. Confirm the required:

• Pressure range

• Dial size

• Accuracy

• Connection

• Listing or approval

• Environmental rating

• Applicable installation standard

Important Considerations Before Buying

Pressure Range

Choose a gauge range that suits the system’s normal operating pressure, maximum pressure, test pressure, and possible surge conditions.

A range that is too high may make normal readings difficult to interpret. A range that is too low can expose the gauge to overpressure and permanent damage.

Manufacturer guidance commonly recommends selecting a range that keeps normal operation comfortably within the instrument scale rather than continuously operating near its maximum limit.

Dial Size

Confirm the required dial diameter based on viewing distance, installation space, and readability.

A larger dial may be preferred for:

• Pump rooms

• Elevated pipelines

• Equipment panels

• Areas requiring frequent inspection

A compact dial may be more suitable where installation space is limited.

Pressure Unit

Verify the required unit before ordering.

Common options include PSI, bar, kPa, MPa, and dual-scale combinations.

The unit should match the project documents and the units used by operators and maintenance personnel.

Process Connection

Confirm the connection size, thread type, and mounting orientation.

Examples may include:

• 1/8-inch NPT

• 1/4-inch NPT

• 3/8-inch NPT

• 1/2-inch NPT

• BSP or BSPT connections

• Other manufacturer configurations

Never force incompatible thread standards together.

Bottom or Back Connection

Determine whether the installation requires:

• Bottom connection

• Lower-back connection

• Center-back connection

• Panel-mounted configuration

The correct orientation helps maintain visibility and prevents unnecessary piping modifications.

Case Material

The gauge case material should suit the installation environment.

Consider possible exposure to:

• Moisture

• Corrosion

• Chemicals

• Dust

• Outdoor weather

• Mechanical impact

• Washdown conditions

Wetted-Part Material

Wetted parts are the internal components that come into contact with the process fluid.

Confirm material compatibility with water, air, oil, chemicals, wastewater, or other intended media.

Do not select the gauge based only on the external case material.

Dry or Liquid-Filled Gauge

A dry gauge may be suitable for stable general-service conditions.

A liquid-filled gauge may be considered where vibration or pulsation causes excessive pointer movement. Additional protection, such as a snubber or pulsation dampener, may also be necessary depending on the system.

Accuracy Requirement

Confirm the accuracy class required by the project.

General monitoring, equipment testing, commissioning, calibration, and laboratory work may require different levels of accuracy.

Operating Temperature

Check both the fluid temperature and the surrounding ambient temperature.

Excessive temperature can affect accuracy, case condition, filling liquid, seals, and sensing-element life.

Pressure Pulsation and Vibration

Pumps, compressors, reciprocating equipment, and rapidly operating valves can create vibration or fluctuating pressure.

The gauge may require:

• Liquid filling

• A pressure snubber

• A pulsation dampener

• A remote connection

• A mounting bracket

• Flexible tubing

• Another approved protective accessory

Fluid Temperature Protection

For hot fluids or steam service, the gauge may require a siphon, cooling element, diaphragm seal, or other approved protective arrangement.

The selected accessory must be compatible with the gauge and process conditions.

Installation Guidelines

1. Verify the Gauge

Confirm the model, pressure range, connection, dial size, unit, material, and intended service before installation.

2. Depressurize the System

Isolate, drain, and depressurize the pipeline before connecting or removing the gauge.

Pressure instruments should be installed only after the system has been placed in a safe condition.

3. Inspect the Connection

Check that the gauge thread and process connection are clean, undamaged, and compatible.

Do not install a gauge with damaged or crossed threads.

4. Use the Correct Seal

Apply the correct thread sealant, gasket, or sealing washer according to the connection design and manufacturer’s instructions.

Prevent sealing material from entering the pressure passage.

5. Tighten Using the Wrench Flats

Apply installation torque to the designated wrench flats on the process connection.

Do not twist or tighten the gauge by holding the case, because this may damage the instrument.

6. Mount the Dial Properly

Install the gauge in the recommended orientation and position the dial so that it can be read safely.

Mechanical pressure gauges are commonly designed to provide their specified accuracy in their intended mounting position.

7. Avoid Excessive Vibration

Choose an installation point protected from severe vibration, impact, extreme temperature, and moisture where practical.

Use appropriate support or damping accessories when required.

8. Open the Isolation Valve Slowly

Where a gauge valve or cock is installed, open it gradually to prevent sudden pressure shock.

9. Check for Leakage

Inspect the threaded connection and surrounding components for leaks.

10. Confirm the Reading

Check that the pointer moves smoothly and returns appropriately when pressure is removed.

Maintenance and Inspection

The CRAFT Pressure Gauge should be included in the facility’s regular inspection and preventive-maintenance program.

Check for:

• Cracked or cloudy dial windows

• Damaged case

• Loose process connections

• External leakage

• Corrosion

• Pointer vibration

• Pointer sticking

• Pointer remaining above zero after depressurization

• Faded or unreadable dial markings

• Escaping case-filling liquid

• Evidence of overpressure

• Unstable readings

• Damaged threads

• Excessive vibration

• Calibration drift

A gauge that has been exposed to severe overpressure, impact, corrosion, or abnormal temperature should be inspected and replaced or recalibrated when necessary.

Do not remove a gauge until the connected system has been isolated and fully depressurized.

When Should a Pressure Gauge Be Replaced?

Consider replacing the gauge when:

• The pointer does not return to zero

• The pointer sticks or moves irregularly

• The dial window is broken

• The case is severely corroded

• The pressure connection is damaged

• The gauge leaks

• The reading is inconsistent with a verified reference

• The instrument has experienced severe overpressure

• The gauge can no longer be calibrated

• The pressure range no longer suits the system

• The fluid service has changed

• The required accuracy has changed

Why Choose a CRAFT Pressure Gauge?

The CRAFT Pressure Gauge may provide a practical pressure-monitoring solution for commercial, waterworks, HVAC, fire-protection support, and industrial utility applications.

Depending on the selected model, it can support:

• Clear local pressure indication

• Convenient system monitoring

• Pump-performance observation

• Preventive maintenance

• Troubleshooting

• Commissioning activities

• Pressure testing

• Equipment protection

• Improved operational awareness

Final product selection should always be based on the actual CRAFT technical data, project requirements, operating conditions, and applicable standards.

Why Purchase from Pinoleakpes Corporation?

Pinoleakpes Corporation provides pressure gauges and piping solutions for waterworks, HVAC, fire protection, industrial utilities, commercial buildings, and infrastructure projects. Its pressure-gauge offering includes CRAFT and other established gauge brands.

To help identify a suitable gauge, provide the following details during your inquiry:

• Required quantity

• Pressure range

• Preferred pressure unit

• Dial size

• Connection size

• Thread standard

• Bottom or back connection

• Dry or liquid-filled type

• Fluid or medium

• Operating temperature

• Normal operating pressure

• Maximum and test pressure

• Required accuracy

• Application

• Project location

Request a Quotation

Looking for a dependable instrument for monitoring pipeline, pump, HVAC, waterworks, or industrial system pressure?

Contact Pinoleakpes Corporation for inquiries about the CRAFT Pressure Gauge.

Our team can assist in reviewing the required pressure range, dial size, process connection, mounting orientation, fluid compatibility, and operating conditions for your project.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a CRAFT Pressure Gauge measure?

It measures and displays the pressure of a compatible liquid or gas at the point where the gauge is connected.

Does a mechanical pressure gauge require electricity?

A standard analog mechanical gauge normally provides local pressure indication without an external electrical power source.

What is the difference between a dry and liquid-filled gauge?

A dry gauge contains air inside the case. A liquid-filled gauge contains an approved filling fluid that may help damp pointer movement caused by vibration or pulsation.

Can a pressure gauge be installed on a pump discharge?

Yes, provided the gauge range, connection, material, temperature capability, and mounting arrangement are suitable for the pump system.

Can it be used for compressed air?

It may be used for compatible compressed-air applications when the pressure range and wetted materials are suitable.

Can it be used for steam?

Direct installation on hot steam may damage an unsuitable gauge. A compatible siphon or other temperature-protection accessory is commonly required, together with confirmation that the gauge is approved for the service.

How do I choose the correct pressure range?

Confirm the normal working pressure, maximum operating pressure, testing pressure, and possible pressure surges. Choose a range that provides good readability without continuously operating near the end of the scale.

Why is the gauge pointer vibrating?

Possible causes include pump pulsation, compressor cycling, vibration, unstable flow, pressure surges, or insufficient damping.

Why does the pointer not return to zero?

The gauge may have been exposed to overpressure, mechanical damage, internal wear, temperature effects, or calibration drift. The instrument should be inspected before further use.

How often should the gauge be calibrated?

Calibration frequency depends on application criticality, service conditions, operating history, project requirements, and the facility’s quality or maintenance program.