Digital vacuum sensors for vacuum furnaces are designed to measure the pressure inside the furnace, which operates under vacuum conditions. The sensors convert the measured vacuum pressure into an electrical signal that can be displayed on a digital readout. Here’s how they generally work:

Pressure Measurement: The sensor typically uses a measurement principle suitable for low-pressure environments, such as a thermocouple sensor, Pirani gauge, or a cold cathode ionization gauge, depending on the pressure range.

Signal Conversion: The physical pressure measurement is converted into an electrical signal by the sensor. This could be a change in resistance, current, or voltage that correlates with the pressure level.

Signal Processing: The electrical signal is then processed by an internal microprocessor within the sensor or an external controller. It converts the signal into a digital reading corresponding to the vacuum level.

Output: The digital reading is displayed on a digital interface which could be an integral part of the sensor or on a remote display panel. This allows operators to monitor the vacuum level within the furnace accurately.

Control Functions: In some systems, the vacuum sensor is integrated with the furnace control system, enabling it to trigger actions or alarms if the vacuum level falls outside preset parameters.

Calibration and Compensation: Digital vacuum sensors often include temperature compensation and calibration functions to maintain accuracy under varying operating conditions.

These sensors are critical for maintaining the desired vacuum conditions during the processing of materials in a vacuum furnace, which can be essential for achieving the required material properties in the finished product.