How is steam prevented from entering the Bourdon tube of the pressure gauge?

Preventing steam from entering the Bourdon tube of a pressure gauge is crucial to maintain accurate measurements while protecting the gauge itself. Utilizing a siphon is an effective method for this purpose. A siphon, or steam trap, acts as a barrier between the steam source and the pressure gauge. It works by allowing steam to condense into water within the siphon loop, effectively trapping water at the lowest point. This prevents high-temperature steam from directly contacting the Bourdon tube.

By ensuring that only condensate enters the gauge, the siphon protects the Bourdon tube from the harsh conditions of steam, which could lead to distortion or damage, and it helps maintain the gauge's accuracy. This method is widely used in applications involving pressure measurement in steam systems.