Types and uses of thermocouples
Thermocouples are devices used in temperature measurement and also to convert a heat gradient into electricity. It is a device consisting of two dissimilar metals joined together at the end. A voltage proportional to the temperature difference develops across them. They are standardized against a reference temperature of 0 degrees Celcius. Thermocouples are widely used in the fields of science and electronics. They are also used in the Steel industry as well as for temperature measurement for kilns, gas turbine exhaust, diesel engines etc.
Thermocouples are the cheapest and easiest temperature sensors in the science industry. They can be custom made also within 24 hours of order. The common types of thermocouples are J, K, T and E. Each combination is different but the temperature majorly varies with the diameter of the wire used.
· Type J- A combination of iron and Constantan. These are magnetic elements thus the Curie point has an abrupt change in characteristics.
· Type K- A combination of Nickel and Chromium or Nickel and Aluminum. These are not magnetic.
· Type T- A combination of Copper and Constantan. Both elements are non magnetic.
· Type E- A combination of Chromel and Constantan. Both elements are non magnetic.
You can use the following criteria for choosing the best thermocouple:
1) Temperature range.
2) Abrasion resistance.
3) Installation requirements.
4) Chemical resistance of the sheath material.
The ones with platinum material can be expensive. Thermocouples have their applications in generating electricity also. They are used in radioisotope thermoelectric generators.
Thermocouples are devices used in temperature measurement and also to convert a heat gradient into electricity. It is a device consisting of two dissimilar metals joined together at the end. A voltage proportional to the temperature difference develops across them. They are standardized against a reference temperature of 0 degrees Celcius. Thermocouples are widely used in the fields of science and electronics. They are also used in the Steel industry as well as for temperature measurement for kilns, gas turbine exhaust, diesel engines etc.
Thermocouples are the cheapest and easiest temperature sensors in the science industry. They can be custom made also within 24 hours of order. The common types of thermocouples are J, K, T and E. Each combination is different but the temperature majorly varies with the diameter of the wire used.
· Type J- A combination of iron and Constantan. These are magnetic elements thus the Curie point has an abrupt change in characteristics.
· Type K- A combination of Nickel and Chromium or Nickel and Aluminum. These are not magnetic.
· Type T- A combination of Copper and Constantan. Both elements are non magnetic.
· Type E- A combination of Chromel and Constantan. Both elements are non magnetic.
You can use the following criteria for choosing the best thermocouple:
1) Temperature range.
2) Abrasion resistance.
3) Installation requirements.
4) Chemical resistance of the sheath material.
The ones with platinum material can be expensive. Thermocouples have their applications in generating electricity also. They are used in radioisotope thermoelectric generators.