
( Brand: Swagelok ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: PGI-100B-PG200-BAPX ), ( Part Type: Box Gauge Bar ), ( Face Diameter: 4 In ), ( Connection Diameter: 1/2 In ), ( Mounting Position: Back Mount ), ( Country Of Origin: Germany ), ( Maximum Pressure: 200 Psi )
The **Swagelok PGI-100B-PG200-BAPX Box Gauge (200 Series, 13.8 bar Glycerin)** is a high-performance, precision-engineered pressure gauge designed for demanding industrial applications where reliability, accuracy, and durability are paramount. Part of Swagelok s renowned **PGI (Process Gauge Interface) series**, this gauge combines robust construction with advanced engineering to deliver consistent performance in environments where fluid compatibility, corrosion resistance, and long-term stability are critical. The **200 Series** designation indicates a robust, heavy-duty design optimized for high-pressure applications, making it ideal for systems handling liquids such as glycerin, hydraulic fluids, or other corrosive or abrasive media. With a **maximum working pressure of 13.8 bar (200 psi)**, this gauge provides precise readings within a 2% accuracy range, ensuring operators can trust its measurements for critical process monitoring, leak detection, or system integrity verification.
The gauge features a **box-style housing** with a **PG200 process connection**, which integrates seamlessly with Swagelok s **BAPX (Bare Pipe) or threaded fittings**, allowing for easy installation in piping systems without additional adapters. The **glycerin-filled bourdon tube mechanism** ensures smooth, responsive dial movement while eliminating the need for lubricants that could degrade over time, reducing maintenance requirements and extending the gauge s operational lifespan. The **aluminum alloy case** provides excellent resistance to corrosion, thermal fluctuations, and mechanical stress, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications in industries such as oil and gas, chemical processing, food and beverage, and automotive testing. Additionally, the **backlit dial** with a **white face and black markings** enhances visibility in low-light conditions, while the **black pointer** ensures clear, unambiguous readings even under challenging environments.
Swagelok s commitment to quality is evident in the **precision-machined components**, including the **stainless steel bourdon tube** and **ceramic or glass-filled housing options** (available as upgrades), which further enhance resistance to chemical exposure and temperature extremes. The gauge is **factory-calibrated and certified**, ensuring compliance with industry standards such as **ISO 5178** for pressure gauges, and its **sealed case** prevents contamination from external elements, maintaining accuracy over prolonged use. Whether deployed in a hydraulic test system, a high-pressure filtration process, or a research laboratory, the **PGI-100B-PG200-BAPX** delivers the precision, durability, and ease of integration that engineers and operators demand. Its modular design also allows for future upgrades, such as **remote monitoring interfaces or digital output options**, making it a versatile choice for both legacy and next-generation applications.
### Pros and Cons of buying a Swagelok PGI-100B-PG200-BAPX Box Gauge (200 Bar, 13.8 Bar Glycerin)
#### **Pros:**1. **High Accuracy and Precision** Swagelok is a well-known brand in industrial instrumentation, and this gauge is designed for high-pressure applications, ensuring reliable and precise measurements. The 200-bar range is suitable for demanding industrial, laboratory, or research environments where accuracy is critical.
2. **Durability and Robust Construction** The gauge is built to withstand harsh conditions, including high-pressure fluctuations and potential exposure to corrosive or abrasive fluids (like glycerin). The metal housing and reinforced components enhance longevity.
3. **Wide Pressure Range** With a maximum range of 200 bar (2900 psi), this gauge is versatile for applications requiring precise monitoring of high-pressure systems, such as hydraulic testing, gas cylinders, or specialized laboratory setups.
4. **Glycerin-Filled Design** The glycerin filling (13.8 bar) provides damping, reducing vibration-induced errors and improving stability in fluctuating pressure environments. This is particularly useful in dynamic systems where rapid pressure changes occur.
5. **Compatibility with Swagelok Fittings** As part of the Swagelok ecosystem, this gauge integrates seamlessly with other Swagelok components (e.g., valves, fittings, and connectors), making it ideal for systems already using this brand.
6. **Industrial-Grade Build** The box gauge design offers protection against external damage, making it suitable for field applications or environments where physical protection is necessary.
7. **Long-Term Reliability** Swagelok products are known for their durability and low maintenance requirements, reducing the need for frequent replacements or calibrations.
8. **Safety Features** The high-pressure rating and robust construction contribute to safer operation in critical applications, minimizing the risk of gauge failure under extreme conditions.
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#### **Cons:**1. **High Initial Cost** Swagelok products are premium-priced, and this gauge may be more expensive than alternatives from lesser-known brands. The cost could be a significant investment, especially for small-scale or budget-conscious users.
2. **Limited Availability of Spare Parts** While Swagelok is reliable, finding replacement parts or gauges may be more challenging compared to more widely available brands. This could lead to longer downtimes if the gauge fails.
3. **Overkill for Low-Pressure Applications** If your application only requires lower pressure ranges (e.g., below 100 bar), this gauge may be unnecessarily robust and expensive. A simpler, lower-range gauge might suffice.
4. **Calibration Requirements** High-precision gauges like this one require periodic calibration to maintain accuracy. This adds to the long-term operational cost, including labor or third-party calibration services.
5. **Size and Installation Complexity** The box gauge design is bulkier than traditional dial gauges, which may limit installation flexibility in space-constrained environments. Mounting and integration into existing systems might require additional effort.
6. **Potential for Overuse** If the gauge is consistently exposed to pressures near its maximum range (200 bar), it may wear out faster than if used within a lower, more conservative range. This could shorten its lifespan if not managed properly.
7. **Learning Curve for Non-Specialists** Users unfamiliar with Swagelok instrumentation or high-pressure gauges may require training to operate, calibrate, or troubleshoot the device effectively.
8. **Environmental Sensitivity** While durable, extreme temperatures, humidity, or exposure to corrosive substances (beyond glycerin) could still affect performance over time, requiring additional protective measures.
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### **Conclusion:**The **Swagelok PGI-100B-PG200-BAPX box gauge** is an excellent choice for applications demanding **high accuracy, durability, and reliability in high-pressure environments**. Its glycerin-filled design, robust construction, and compatibility with Swagelok systems make it ideal for industrial, laboratory, or research settings where precision and safety are paramount. However, its **high cost, calibration needs, and potential overkill for low-pressure applications** may not justify the purchase for users with simpler requirements or tighter budgets.
### **Recommendation:** - **Buy if:**- You work in an **industrial, hydraulic, or research setting** where high-pressure accuracy is critical.
- Your system is already using **Swagelok components**, ensuring seamless integration.
- You prioritize **long-term reliability and low maintenance** despite the higher upfront cost.
- Your application involves **vibration or fluctuating pressures**, where glycerin damping is beneficial.
- **Avoid if:**- Your pressure requirements are **well below 100 bar**, making a lower-range gauge more cost-effective.
- You operate on a **tight budget** and can find equally reliable alternatives at a lower price.
- You lack access to **calibration services** or expertise to maintain high-precision gauges.
- Space constraints or aesthetic preferences make the **bulky box design impractical**.
For most **high-pressure industrial or specialized applications**, this gauge is a **strong recommendation**. For general or low-pressure use, consider alternatives like **lower-range dial gauges or budget-friendly brands** to balance cost and performance.
Measurement Ranges: Outer Scale Black: to 200 psi. This device is a industrial pressure gauge, specifically designed to measure in both bar and psi pounds per square inch. Inner Scale Red: to 13.8 bar. Key Specifications Brand: Swagelok.
Safety Features: Equipped with Glass for the dial window to prevent shattering under extreme conditions. Based on the dial, it is an EN 837-1 compliant gauge with a maximum scale of 13.8 bar and 200 psi. NEW open box. 1.0, indicating a high precision level.
Accuracy Class: CL.