Sep 3, 2013

Fundamentals Concerning Thermocouple Types Used Today

By Kate McMahon


Modern technological enhancements have resulted into invention of several thermocouple types to fit various applications. Even though there are many types of thermocouples, the functioning principles are similar across all. Basically, these devices consist of dissimilar conductors, which stay in contact and generate a voltage when heated or warmed. The level of voltage generated relies on the variation in temperature between components of the circuit and the metal junction.

Thermocouples stand among the most widely used kinds of temperature sensing devices in use currently. They are used in controlling, measuring, and sometimes changing temperature gradients into electrical energy. Commercial thermocouples are cheap and could be changed if they become malfunctional. They are availed with standard connectors and can be used to gauge a huge range of temperatures. Thermocouples vary from other kinds of sensors since they do not need exterior excitation and they are normally self-powered.

Certain metal alloys with repeatable and expected relationships between temperature and voltages are applied in the production of these equipment. Different ranges of temperature function best with certain metal alloys. Intermediate connections could be constructed using extension cables if the measurement points are far from the sensors. Cheaper materials may be used to make the extension.

Since there are several kinds of thermocouples, when selecting, one should consider insulation, probe construction, and make. These variables affect accuracy, range, and reliability of readings. The gadget should not restrict the range of temperature that has to be measured. Main models to pick from include type E, J, N, K, B, S, and R. All these models differ in materials, characteristics, and ranges of temperatures they can sense. Some are general purpose whereas other are utilized on specific applications.

Type K is a low cost general purpose device. It is the most widely used and as such, it comes in a wide range of probes. It can be used in any application unless otherwise stated. Its sensitivity is approximately 41 uV per degree Celsius and can measure temperatures in the range of -200 to +1200 degrees Celsius. Chromel and alumel alloy metals are used.

Type J sensors are non-magnetic and significantly sensitive. Their sensitivity is stands around 68uV per degree Centigrade. Because of their sensitivity, they are good for utilization on applications that entail low temperatures. Type J are second in popularity after K. Their metal junctions consist of constantan and iron and they can be applied for temperature ranges of between -40 to +750 degrees. Use below +760 degrees Centigrade is not advised.

Type N is meant to be an enhancement of type K thermocouples. It is a nice selection for high temperature activities. It is a low price model with the capability to resist oxidation in high temperature. Because of its properties, it is becoming more popular. Types S, R, and B are known as noble metal thermocouples, hence therefore they exhibit same characteristics.

Thermocouple types differ in sensitivity thus their applications. The increased stability of type S renders it to be utilized as a standard for gold calibration. S model is costly and has lower sensitivity making it un-suitable for use in general applications.




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