What function does a bellows serve in instrumentation?

A bellows serves a critical role in pressure measurement within instrumentation. This device consists of a series of flexible, interconnected sheets of material that can expand or contract in response to pressure changes. When pressure is applied, the bellows compresses or extends, translating the mechanical movement into a measurable signal that can be read or recorded.

The design of the bellows allows it to be particularly sensitive to variations in pressure, enabling accurate readings in various applications, such as industrial processes or environmental monitoring. This mechanical action is often part of a pressure sensing system that can convert the physical movement of the bellows into an electrical signal for further processing or display.