A pressure gauge for testing compressed hydrogen systems above 100 psig must have increments not exceeding how many psi?

When testing compressed hydrogen systems at pressures exceeding 100 psig, safety and accuracy are paramount due to the volatile nature of hydrogen. Having a pressure gauge with increments not exceeding 2 psi allows for precise monitoring of pressure changes within the system. This level of precision is crucial as even small fluctuations in pressure can have significant implications for system integrity and safety.

A pressure gauge with smaller increments enables better detection of any potential issues, such as leaks or irregularities in the pressure readings. This is particularly important in hydrogen systems, where the gas is sensitive to changes and can be highly reactive. Using increments of 2 psi or less ensures that operators can quickly and accurately respond to any changes, enhancing overall safety measures.

Options with larger increment values, such as 5 psi or 10 psi, would not provide the necessary detail for effective monitoring in such critical applications, potentially allowing hazardous conditions to go unnoticed. Therefore, the requirement for increments not exceeding 2 psi is designed to maintain high standards of surveillance in systems where safety cannot be compromised.