Optimising shower performance

Precision water pressure & flow analysis

Introduction
A well-known manufacturer of showers for both domestic and hospitality markets needed a precise way to analyse the water patterns created by different showerhead designs at varying water pressures and flow rates. With an extensive range of showerheads—featuring different spray patterns, pulsing and rotating effects, and even illumination—having a reliable measurement system was critical for product development and quality assurance.

The testing challenge
The company’s test lab is equipped with specialised shower chambers that allow for controlled variations in water pressure and temperature. Their setup enables quick swapping of different showerheads, allowing comprehensive testing. The key application requirements included:

Visualising and recording water patterns for different showerhead designs at different pressures and flow rates.
Capturing the impact of pulsing and rotating spray patterns.
Comparing test data across multiple trials.
Exporting recorded data as images for reports, advertising materials, or online use.

The XSensor pressure mapping solution
After an on-site demonstration and testing, it was determined that the optimal pressure range for measurement was between 0.2-4 psi. The ideal solution for this application was XSensor’s pressure mapping system with the latest Pro V9 software, coupled with the LX100:100.100.10 sensor mat. This high-resolution sensor measures 25.4cm x 25.4cm and features 10,000 sensor points with a spatial resolution of 2.54mm.

The sensor mat, covered with a UPVC waterproof layer, was placed in the shower tray to capture detailed 2D and 3D images of the water impact. This setup enabled the company to:

Record and visualise different shower spray patterns under controlled conditions.
Analyse data such as the centre of pressure and its movement over time.
Compare multiple test files side by side (up to four at a time) for direct comparisons.
Export test results as PNG, JPEG, or CSV files for further analysis or integration into reports and presentations.

Results and Benefits
By integrating XSensor’s pressure mapping system, the manufacturer gained deeper insights into their showerhead designs, enabling them to refine spray patterns for optimal performance and user experience. The ability to capture high-resolution pressure distribution data has supported their product innovation, marketing materials, and technical reports.

With precise, visualised data at their disposal, the company can now develop showers that deliver enhanced comfort, efficiency, and performance—tailored to different pressure environments and customer preferences.

Conclusion
Using XSensor’s advanced pressure mapping technology, this leading shower manufacturer has transformed its testing capabilities, ensuring its products continue to set industry standards. By leveraging high-quality pressure data, they can refine and optimise shower designs, providing customers with superior showering experiences across domestic and commercial applications.