Sensor Protection 101: The Need for a Pressure Canister

The BPS Pressure Surge Dampener is designed to protect critical pressure sensors from damage caused by pressure spikes, heat, and moisture. By ensuring consistent readings and safeguarding sensor functionality, it helps prevent catastrophic failures that could compromise your performance or cost you a race.

What Happens When a Sensor Fails?

Pressure sensors are vital for accurate engine management. Without protection, these sensors can fail under harsh conditions, often reading incorrectly on the high side. The consequences of such failures depend on the sensor affected:

• MAP Sensor: If your MAP sensor fails high, your ECU will interpret this as if your engine is receiving maximum boost. In response, the ECU will command an excessive amount of fuel, flooding the engine and causing it to stall. The engine will remain inoperable until the faulty sensor is replaced.
• Dome Sensor: A high-side failure in the dome sensor will result in the ECU seeing an excessive amount of dome pressure—much more than what would normally be commanded. The ECU would consequently vent the excessive pressure and cut off CO2 supply. In a race scenario, this could mean losing critical time—or the race itself.

This datalog was captured during a run before releasing our canisters. It highlights a dome sensor failure while on the transbrake. Notice the pressure reading spiking high, while actual boost drops instantly due to the ECU cutting off CO2. This is a clear demonstration of how unprotected sensors can compromise performance in critical moments.

Why Are Pressure Canisters Needed for Backpressure Readings?

Backpressure readings are especially vulnerable to damage from the heat generated by the exhaust system. Without protection, the intense heat can destroy the sensor, leading to inaccurate readings and loss of valuable data. By using a pressure canister, the sensor is shielded from this heat, ensuring accurate and reliable backpressure readings while extending the sensor's lifespan.

Features of the BPS Pressure Surge Dampener

• CNC machined 6061-T6 aluminum
• Black anodized finish
• Standard 1/8" NPT inlet and outlet
• Stainless steel bracket for mounting

Available Options

• 100 PSI Pressure Sensor: High-accuracy sensor with 0.5v to 4.5v linear scale
• Backpressure Kit: Includes stainless steel tubing, a 90° compression fitting, and a weld-on fitting for seamless installation

Don’t let a failing sensor jeopardize your performance. Upgrade to the BPS Pressure Surge Dampener to protect your sensors and maintain consistent results.