BALSTON 05-020-268 Great Water Pressure Gauge 0-160

( Brand: Balston ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 05-020-268 ), ( Part Type: Pressure Gauge ), ( Country Of Origin: United States )

Review BALSTON 0-160 Psi Inch Dia Pressure Gauge Great Condition

The **Balston 05-020-268 0-160 Pressure Gauge** is a precision-engineered, industrial-grade instrument designed to deliver reliable and accurate pressure monitoring in a wide range of applications, from HVAC systems and refrigeration units to hydraulic machinery and compressed air networks. Crafted with durability in mind, this gauge features a robust **1.5-inch dial face** with bold, high-contrast markings and a **black-and-white color scheme**, ensuring optimal readability even in low-light conditions or high-contrast environments. The **brass body construction** provides exceptional resistance to corrosion and mechanical stress, making it ideal for use in demanding industrial settings where reliability is non-negotiable. The gauge is calibrated to measure pressures within a **0 to 160 psi (pounds per square inch) range**, offering precise readings for applications requiring moderate to high-pressure monitoring, such as refrigeration systems, air compressors, or small-scale hydraulic equipment.

One of the standout features of this gauge is its **Bourdon tube mechanism**, a time-tested design known for its accuracy and longevity. The tube s gradual uncoiling under pressure ensures smooth, linear readings without the lag or hysteresis often found in less precise instruments. The gauge is also equipped with a **sealed back, filled with a damping fluid**, which minimizes vibration-induced fluctuations and provides a stable, steady needle movement critical for applications where rapid pressure changes could lead to inaccurate readings. The **black enamel dial** is etched with **clear, easy-to-read numerical increments**, allowing operators to quickly assess pressure levels without confusion. Additionally, the gauge includes a **screw-in connection (NPT thread)**, ensuring a secure and leak-proof installation on piping systems, while the **brass case** is designed to withstand temperature variations and environmental exposure, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

Beyond its technical specifications, the Balston 05-020-268 stands out for its **versatility and ease of integration** into existing systems. Its compact yet sturdy design allows for straightforward mounting on panels, valves, or directly onto equipment, while the **standard 1.5-inch mounting hole** ensures compatibility with most industrial mounting brackets. The gauge s **durable glass window** protects the internal mechanism from dust and debris, extending its operational lifespan, while the **brass case** resists warping under thermal stress, ensuring consistent performance over time. Whether used in a commercial refrigeration unit, an air conditioning system, or a small-scale hydraulic application, this pressure gauge delivers **uncompromising accuracy, durability, and ease of use**, making it a trusted choice for professionals who demand precision in their pressure monitoring needs. Its **reputable Balston brand heritage** further guarantees quality craftsmanship and adherence to industry standards, ensuring that users can rely on it for years of dependable service.

**Pros and Cons of buying a Balston 05-020-268 (0-160 PSI Pressure Gauge)**

The Balston 05-020-268 is a reliable and widely used pressure gauge, particularly in industrial and mechanical applications. Here are its key advantages:

1. **Durability and Build Quality** This gauge is constructed with a robust metal housing, making it resistant to physical impact, vibration, and environmental factors. It is designed for long-term use in demanding environments, such as manufacturing plants, HVAC systems, and automotive workshops.

2. **Accuracy and Precision** Balston is known for producing high-quality pressure gauges with minimal error margins. The 0-160 PSI range is well-suited for applications requiring moderate pressure monitoring, such as pneumatic systems, compressed air lines, and low-pressure hydraulic setups.

3. **Easy Installation and Compatibility** The gauge features standard NPT (National Pipe Thread) connections, making it compatible with most standard fittings. It can be easily installed on pipelines, valves, or machinery without requiring specialized tools.

4. **Clear Readability** The dial is typically large and clearly marked, allowing for easy visual monitoring of pressure levels. The needle movement is smooth, reducing the risk of misreading.

5. **Wide Range of Applications** Beyond industrial use, this gauge can be employed in automotive repair, plumbing, and even some HVAC systems where moderate pressure monitoring is necessary.

6. **Affordability** Compared to some specialized or high-end gauges, the Balston 05-020-268 offers good value for its performance and reliability, making it a cost-effective choice for many users.

7. **Brand Reputation** Balston is a trusted name in instrumentation, with a long history of producing dependable pressure gauges. This reduces the risk of purchasing a poorly made or unreliable product.

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1. **Limited Pressure Range** The 0-160 PSI range is suitable for low to moderate pressure applications but may be insufficient for high-pressure systems (e.g., hydraulic presses, heavy machinery, or high-pressure boilers). Users requiring higher ranges (e.g., 0-300 PSI or above) would need a different model.

2. **Basic Design** The gauge lacks advanced features such as remote sensing, digital readouts, or electronic integration. It is a mechanical analog gauge, meaning it relies on a physical needle and dial, which can be less precise than digital alternatives in some cases.

3. **Potential for Wear Over Time** Like all mechanical gauges, the internal components (e.g., the bourdon tube, seals, and needle mechanism) can degrade with prolonged use or exposure to harsh conditions. Regular calibration may be necessary to maintain accuracy.

4. **No Built-in Protection Against Overpressure** Without additional safeguards (such as a pressure relief valve or burst disc), the gauge could be damaged if subjected to sudden spikes in pressure beyond its rated limit.

5. **Limited Environmental Resistance** While the housing is durable, the gauge may not be fully sealed against extreme temperatures, moisture, or corrosive substances unless specified otherwise. For harsh environments, a more specialized gauge (e.g., with a corrosion-resistant coating or explosion-proof rating) may be required.

6. **No Backlighting or Digital Display** In low-light conditions, reading the gauge can be difficult compared to digital models with backlit displays or LED indicators.

7. **Maintenance Requirements** Mechanical gauges require occasional maintenance, such as lubrication of moving parts and cleaning of the dial, to ensure optimal performance. Neglecting maintenance can lead to inaccuracies or failure.

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The Balston 05-020-268 (0-160 PSI pressure gauge) is a well-built, reliable, and cost-effective choice for applications requiring moderate pressure monitoring in industrial, automotive, or HVAC settings. Its durability, accuracy, and ease of use make it a practical option for many users. However, it is not ideal for high-pressure environments or applications needing advanced features like digital readouts or remote sensing. For users with specific needs such as extreme pressure ranges, harsh environmental conditions, or the requirement for digital integration alternative gauges may be more appropriate.

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- You need a simple, durable, and accurate pressure gauge for low to moderate pressure applications (up to 160 PSI).

- You are working in an industrial, automotive, or HVAC setting where a mechanical gauge is sufficient.

- You prioritize affordability and brand reliability without needing advanced features.

- The gauge will be used in a controlled environment where maintenance is manageable.

- You require a higher pressure range (e.g., 300 PSI or above).

- Your application demands digital readouts, remote monitoring, or electronic integration.

- The gauge will be exposed to extreme temperatures, corrosive substances, or explosive environments (where specialized or explosion-proof gauges are necessary).

- You frequently need high precision and plan to use the gauge in critical safety-critical systems (where digital or certified gauges may be preferable).

For most general-purpose, low-to-moderate pressure monitoring tasks, the Balston 05-020-268 remains a strong and practical choice. Always ensure it matches your specific application requirements before purchasing.

Details:

With a pressure range of 0-160 PSI and 1 diameter, this gauge is ideal for monitoring measuring in various industrial applications. Its sturdy construction and accurate readings make it a reliable tool for ensuring proper functionality performance in hydraulic, pneumatic, plumbing systems.

part #: 05020268 prices

• $9.95-$14.95

specifications generapneumati:

• brand: Balston
• mpn: 05-020-268
• part type: Pressure Gauge
• country of origin: United States

offer generapneumati:

• sold: 0
• availability: In Stock
• options: Ship-to-home
• quantity: 1
• started: May 19, 2026

general generapneumati:

• condition: Used
• Business Industrial > Hydraulics, Pneumatics, Pumps Plumbing > Other Hydraulics Pneumatics

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