HOPKINSIN STEAM PRESSURE GAUGE

The Hopkinsion Pressure Gauge was manufactured by Hopkinsin of Huddersfield, England c1930. It was calibrated to the last 10' head of water at 0-1500 pounds per square inch (psi). It was designed to be see from a distance in the boiler house at the East Perth Power Station.

This sensitive insrument was suspended from above and registered pressure in the boiler. The needle had to be maintained in the centre position which meant the boiler was operating at the correct steam pressure of 600. The range of the gauge was 570 to 630 psi and the safety valves were set to blow between 625 and 630 psi. Operators were required to control the boiler pressure to maintain steam levels so that turbo alternators would meet rising electricity demand as it occurred.