What Is a Glycerine Filled Pressure Gauge? A glycerine filled pressure gauge is a pressure measuring instrument with a case containing glycerine or another suitable liquid filling. The liquid helps reduce pointer oscillation caused by vibration and pressure pulsation. Many models use a Bourdon tube mechanism to measure pressure, although the exact design varies by product. Compared with a comparable dry pressure gauge, a liquid-filled model can provide easier-to-read indications in environments with mechanical vibration. The filling may also help lubricate moving components and protect internal mechanisms, depending on the gauge design.