I'm starting research on a project for a friend of mine that involves monitoring a pressurized cylinder and setting off an alarm if pressure drops too low. He uses a typical compressor set at 120 psi with a regulator going to the cylinder set at 60 psi. I'm looking for an Arduino compatible sensor capable of withstanding, at bare minimum, 120 psi. 150 or more would be better. Extreme accuracy is not required. A tolerance of +/-5 psi would be acceptable.
The only real requirements at this stage is being able to handle the pressure. Being Arduino compatible. And being able to connect or adapt to 1/4 inch plastic air line.
I've been looking on the internet at what's available. However, I have no idea who makes a "good" sensor. I really don't want to waste his money on junk.
So, if anyone has had experience with something like this, I would very much like to hear your thoughts about it. Especially if you know of a brand/model that fits the bill.
It's for a personal project of his own. So, he'd like to keep the hardware under $50. Not sure that is possible though. And told him as much. If it were for the company he works for, well, the skys the limit.
I can save a little by going with a knock-off Arduino. I would rather not do that if I can get away with it.
Thanks groundFungus. I was actually looking at that one earlier. Just have no idea on quality. But it may very well be what we end up using. If the specs can be believed, it should do ok.
I guess I need to discuss with him about the longevity of this system. If it's something that has to run 24/7 for days, months, or even years, then a proven product like the others mentioned might be a necessity.
JCA34F:
If you only need notification, not pressure readout, I would use a name brand pressure switch.
I do believe he has pressure guages. So, I don't believe there is a need for an additional readout. We've only talked briefly about this project as he was at work. So, I'll get more details this weekend when I can see first hand what he is attempting.
Another friend also mentioned that 18 wheelers have pressure sensors on them. Those sensors last for hundreds of thousands of miles. Might have to give that some thought as well.
Yep, modern semi trailers have anti lock brakes, so they would have to have a way to feed back braking force (air pressure) to the controller, but I believe truck air brake systems work at max pressure of 120 PSI. Worth a shot.
I'd like to thank everyone for their insight/suggestions/advice. Finally spoke with my friend again an he decided to go a different route with his project. No Arduino involved I guess.