
Temperature gauges used in boats are of two general types: electrical, or pressure type. The electrical temperature gauge relies on a sender unit connected via wires to the gauge head. The sender produces varying electrical resistance according to the temperature it encounters. The pressure type temperature gauge uses a Bourdon tube mechanism, which has a gauge head with a needle that moves against a scale. The head of the gauge is connected to a very small diameter tube, which terminates in a bulb, or small reservoir which is immersed in the liquid (oil, steam, or coolant) whose temperature it will measure. This mechanism has been around since 1859 and was used in steam gauges, and continues in use today.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type | Capillary type, electrical, or pressure |
| Mechanism | Bourdon tube |
| Power source | No electricity required |
| Function | Measures temperature of liquid (oil, steam, or coolant) |
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What You'll Learn

The Bourdon tube mechanism
The mechanism is also relatively simple and easy to understand, which makes it a good choice for boat owners who want to monitor their engine temperature. The gauge can be easily installed and connected to the engine, and it will provide accurate and reliable temperature readings.
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Capillary type gauges
Temperature gauges used in aircraft and automobiles are of two general types: electrical or pressure type. The electrical temperature gauge relies on a sender unit connected via wires to the gauge head. The sender produces varying electrical resistance according to the temperature it encounters. The gauge measures this resistance and generally displays the difference by moving a needle on the gauge face.
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Electrical temperature gauges
Capillary-type gauges also utilise a Bourdon tube mechanism, but they do not require electricity to function.
It is recommended to use an electrical gauge as a replacement for an old mechanical gauge.
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Pressure type temperature gauges
Pressure-type temperature gauges, also known as Bourdon tube mechanisms, have been used in temperature gauges since 1859. They feature a gauge head with a needle that moves against a scale. The head of the gauge is connected to a small-diameter tube, which terminates in a bulb or small reservoir that is immersed in the liquid (oil, steam, or coolant) whose temperature it will measure.
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How the gauge head is connected to a small tube
The Bourdon tube mechanism, or pressure gauge, has a gauge head with a needle that moves against a scale. The head of the gauge is connected to a small-diameter tube, which terminates in a bulb or small reservoir. This bulb or reservoir is immersed in the liquid (oil, steam or coolant) whose temperature it will measure. The Bourdon tube mechanism has been around since 1859 and was used in steam gauges.
Capillary type gauges, which utilise the Bourdon tube mechanism, do not require electricity to function.
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Frequently asked questions
A Bourdon tube mechanism, or pressure gauge, has a gauge head with a needle which moves against a scale. The head of the gauge is connected to a very small diameter tube, which terminates in a bulb, or small reservoir which is immersed in the liquid (oil, steam, or coolant) whose temperature it will measure.
There are two types of temperature gauge: electrical and pressure. An electrical temperature gauge relies on a sender unit connected via wires to the gauge head. The sender produces varying electrical resistance according to the temperature it encounters. The gauge measures this resistance, and generally displays the difference by moving a needle on the gauge face. A pressure type temperature gauge uses a Bourdon tube mechanism.
It is suggested that an electric gauge is used to replace an old mechanical one.











































