In industrial applications with abrasive media such as concrete or sand, conventional pressure sensors quickly reach their limits. Vulkollan® membranes offer a proven protection solution to significantly prolong the lifespan of the sensors—without compromises on durability.
What is Vulkollan®?
Vulkollan® is a powerful polyurethane elastomer based on Desmodur® 15 (NDI). It features a unique combination of mechanical and chemical properties and is used wherever materials must withstand high loads.
Key Properties at a Glance:
- High mechanical strength
- Excellent abrasion resistance
- Good chemical resistance (e.g., against oils and fats)
- Temperature resistance from –20 °C to +80 °C
- High elasticity and resilience
Application Examples of Vulkollan® Membranes in Pressure Measurement Technology
Concrete Conveyance in Special Foundation Engineering
A leading company in specialized foundation engineering needed a solution for pressure monitoring inside a pipe through which concrete is pumped into a drilled hole. Since a conventional stainless steel sensor in this abrasive medium would only last a very short time, a flange sensor with an additional Vulkollan® membrane was used.
Result:
- Longevity: approx. 1 year
- Accuracy: approx. 5% (sufficient for this application)
Photo of a sensor with Vulkollan® membrane:
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Water Level Measurement in Trim Tanks of Ships
A manufacturer of ship control systems sought a robust solution for measuring water levels in trim tanks contaminated with seawater, sand, stones, and shells. By applying a thin Vulkollan® foil on the sensor membrane, the sensor could be protected from mechanical wear over the long term.
Advantages and Limitations of Vulkollan® Membranes
Advantages
- Effective protection against abrasive substances
- Extended sensor lifespan
- Usable in many industrial sectors (construction, shipbuilding, environmental technology)
Limitations
- Not suitable for explosive or highly aggressive media (e.g., strong acids)
- Slight reduction in precision due to additional protective layer
- Limited temperature range
Conclusion: Durable Protection for Harsh Environments
Vulkollan® membranes provide a robust, proven solution to protect pressure sensors reliably from abrasive media. They significantly extend the lifespan of measurement devices, enabling more economical operation under challenging conditions.
However, potential limitations such as temperature boundaries or accuracy losses should be considered early on. An individual consultation with experienced sensor specialists is crucial to find the optimal solution for the respective application area.
