How is the accuracy of measurement calculated when a gauge reads 5 psi and has ±1% of reading accuracy?

To determine the accuracy of the measurement when the gauge reads 5 psi with an accuracy specification of ±1% of the reading, first, you need to calculate 1% of the gauge reading.

The calculation involves multiplying the reading (5 psi) by the accuracy percentage (1%). So, the calculation would be:

1% of 5 psi = 0.01 × 5 psi = 0.05 psi.

This result indicates that the gauge can vary by ±0.05 psi, providing an accuracy range from 4.95 psi to 5.05 psi. This understanding is crucial in the context of instrumentation because it allows users to recognize how much uncertainty exists in their pressure measurement.

Thus, the calculated accuracy of ±0.05 psi reflects how close the gauge reading will be to the actual pressure, which is foundational for reliable process control and instrumentation management.