Operating Conditions

No matter what their function, automotive pressure sensors operate in extremely hostile environments. Engine-mounted sensors function in temperatures ranging from –40°C to 150°C. The same sensors, along with tire pressure monitoring devices, are exposed to fuel, oil, and brake and transmission fluids, all of which can clog the sensors and threaten their performance. At the same time, salt water and solvents attack the very structure of the devices. In these applications, electromagnetic interference (EMI) ranges from 2 MHz to 2 GHz of exposure at 200 V/m. Pressure sensors in the passenger compartment are exposed to similar EMI and to low temperatures.

While these conditions pose formidable challenges, they are not insurmountable. Sound design protects the sensors and delivers reliability and long operational life. SMI’s pressure sensor products are engineered to withstand typical harsh environments in automotive applications.