Thermocouple Types That Everyone Should Know About

By Cathy Mercer


There have been many developments in the temperature sensing industry over the last century and one of them is the development of different thermocouple types. These devices are used to measure temperature. The sensor has two conductors that are made from different materials. When these conductors are placed in two environments with different temperatures, a potential difference is created. This voltage is directly proportional to the difference in temperature.

The popularity of thermocouples has increased quite considerably over the years. This is largely due to the many advantages they offer. For instance, these instruments have a very wide temperature range. They also produce an electrical output which is always desirable in industrial processes. The accuracy of these devices is also much higher compared to that of other temperature measuring instruments.

Since the conductors are metallic, these sensors can be used to measure temperature in areas where temperatures are extremely high. They can also be immersed in dangerous chemicals and gasses to measure their temperature with little effect on the sensor. These properties have made them suitable for a wide range of industrial applications.

Most thermocouples are made of pure platinum or its alloys. Manganese, aluminum, nickel, chromium and silicon, among other elements, are used in different combinations to make different kinds of thermocouples. For instance, type k thermocouple is made up of alumel and chromel alloys. This sensor can measure temperatures ranging from -200 to 1350 degrees Celsius.

Thermocouples normally corrode faster than any other temperature measuring instrument. This is largely due to the fact that they are usually subjected to extremely harsh conditions. Under normal industrial conditions thermocouples are in direct contact with extreme heat and corrosive chemicals. This can corrode them very quickly. Recalibration may be needed every now and then if the sensor is not replaced.

Thermocouples are very cheap. Compared to other temperature sensing mechanisms, these devices are more affordable. This makes it possible for companies to replace them on a regular basis without feeling the pinch. When replacing a corroded sensor, it is important to ensure that the specifications of the new device matches those of the corroded one. Alternatively, you can just refer to the manual of a machine before replacing any component.

The following are types of thermocouples that can be found on the market today; type N, J, E, M, C, T, S, R, B and K. These devices have different applications because their temperature ranges are not the same. This is because their conductors or junctions are made from different alloys or metals. The specifications of a thermocouple must be considered by the buyer when making a purchase.

Since there are many thermocouple types, it is important that you choose the right one. In most industries, the electrical or mechanical engineer is responsible for choosing the right temperature sensor. Some of the factors that are normally considered when choosing a sensor include the range of temperatures the plant will be operating at. The corrosive nature of gases and chemicals that will be in contact with the conductors must also be considered. The required accuracy and tolerance of the device must also be considered.




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