To what value should pressure gauge dials be graduated in relation to the maximum operating pressure of the system?

Pressure gauge dials should be graduated to a value that is higher than the maximum operating pressure of the system to ensure accuracy and safety. Graduating the gauges to 1.2 times the maximum operating pressure provides an adequate safety margin, allowing operators to monitor pressure levels without risking damage or inaccurate readings. This approach helps prevent the risk of over-pressure situations, which could lead to failures or accidents.

By setting the graduation at 1.2 times the maximum operating pressure, it ensures that the gauge is within a safe operating range while still allowing for fluctuations in pressure that may occur during normal operations. This degree of graduation supports both the reliability of the gauge readings and the overall safety of the system. In systems where high pressures are common, using gauges graduated to lower multipliers (like 1.0 or 1.1) may not provide sufficient oversight, making the 1.2 multiplier optimal for safety and operational integrity.