Cole-Parmer 68355-44 Precision Pressure Gauge

Overview

The Cole-Parmer 68355-44 Precision Pressure Gauge is an ASME B40.100 Grade A-certified analog pressure measurement instrument engineered for reliable, real-time monitoring of non-corrosive gas and liquid pressures in laboratory, pilot-scale, and light industrial process environments. Utilizing a precision-engineered brass Bourdon tube mechanism, the gauge converts applied pressure into proportional mechanical displacement, which drives a calibrated pointer across a high-contrast, 4.5-inch dial. Its glycerin-filled housing dampens needle oscillation under pulsating or vibrating conditions—critical for stable readings in dynamic fluid systems such as peristaltic pump discharge lines, gas regulator outlets, or filtration manifold monitoring points. Designed for fixed-mount installation with standard 1/4″ NPT male threading, it delivers repeatable performance across its full 0–100 psi (0–689 kPa) range without external power or signal conditioning.

Key Features

• ASME B40.100 Grade A accuracy (±1% of full scale), validated per manufacturer’s calibration certificate traceable to NIST standards
• Glycerin-filled stainless steel case for enhanced shock resistance and reduced pointer flutter during transient pressure events
• Tempered steel movement with jeweled bearing assembly ensuring long-term dimensional stability and minimal hysteresis
• Corrosion-resistant brass Bourdon tube compatible with air, nitrogen, water, oil, and other non-aggressive media
• High-legibility white dial with black numerals and red safety警示 zone marking (if applicable per user configuration)
• Operating temperature range of –20°C to +60°C supports deployment in climate-controlled labs and ambient manufacturing zones

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The 68355-44 is intended for use with clean, dry, non-crystallizing, non-polymerizing fluids and gases. It is not suitable for oxygen service, acetylene, chlorine, or highly viscous or particulate-laden media without upstream filtration. All wetted components comply with RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and meet CE marking requirements for pressure equipment within PED 2014/68/EU Category I. While not certified for SIL or hazardous area use, its robust mechanical design aligns with general-purpose instrumentation requirements under ISO 9001 quality-managed production processes. Documentation includes a factory calibration report with serial-numbered traceability to NIST-traceable reference standards.

Software & Data Management

As a purely analog, self-contained mechanical instrument, the 68355-44 does not incorporate digital electronics, firmware, or data output interfaces. It requires no software installation, network configuration, or cybersecurity validation. This architecture eliminates risks associated with firmware obsolescence, electromagnetic interference, or IT infrastructure dependency—making it particularly suitable for GLP-compliant laboratories where audit trails must remain independent of electronic logging systems. For integration into digitally monitored processes, users may pair the gauge with third-party digital pressure transducers or vision-based readout systems, though such configurations fall outside Cole-Parmer’s scope of supply and validation.

Applications

• Verification of setpoint accuracy on benchtop gas regulators and compressed air manifolds
• Monitoring inlet/outlet pressure differentials across sterile filter housings in bioprocessing workflows
• Calibration cross-checking against digital pressure sensors during routine QA/QC audits
• Visual pressure confirmation in solvent delivery systems for HPLC and SFC preparative instrumentation
• Teaching demonstrations of fundamental pressure mechanics in undergraduate chemical engineering labs
• Backup indication in redundant safety loops where fail-safe mechanical redundancy is mandated

FAQ

Is the 68355-44 suitable for sanitary or pharmaceutical applications?
No—it lacks 3-A or EHEDG certification and features non-sanitary thread geometry and internal crevices unsuitable for CIP/SIP cycles.
Can this gauge be mounted vertically or upside-down?
Yes, provided the 1/4″ NPT connection remains sealed; however, prolonged inverted operation may accelerate glycerin separation and reduce damping efficacy.
Does Cole-Parmer provide recalibration services for this model?
Yes—certified recalibration with NIST-traceable documentation is available through authorized service centers under part number CAL-68355.
What is the expected service life under continuous operation?
When operated within specified temperature and pressure limits and protected from moisture ingress, typical functional service life exceeds 10 years with periodic visual inspection per ISO 5750 maintenance guidelines.
Is there a version with metric-only scale or alternate pressure units?
Cole-Parmer offers variant models (e.g., 68355-45) with dual psi/kPa scales; custom dial configurations require minimum order quantities and extended lead times.