Thermocouple Temperature Probes

Thermocouple temperature probes are bimetallic probes that are used in various temperature-sensing applications. They consist of two wires, each of which is made of a different metallic element or alloy. The wires are joined at one end to form a measuring junction that is exposed to the fluid or medium under measurement. The other end of the wire is terminated at a reference junction. Current flows through a circuit when the two junctions of thermocouple temperature probes are at different temperatures. The voltage resulting from this current flow is then measured to determine the temperature.  

There are three basic types of thermocouple temperature probes. Grounded thermocouples have a tip with wires that are physically attached to the inside of the probe wall. This results in good heat transfer from the outside, through the probe wall to the thermocouple junction. With ungrounded thermocouples, the junction is detached from the probe wall. Consequently, the response time is slower than with grounded thermocouples. Exposed thermocouples have an exposed junction that protrudes from the tip of the sheath and extends into the surrounding environment. These thermocouple temperature probes provide the best response time, but are limited to only non-corrosive and non-pressurized applications. 

Base, noble and refractory metal type is an important specification to consider when selecting thermocouple temperature probes. Lettered choices for thermocouple type include E, J, K, N, T, B, S, R, W, and C. The element configuration for thermocouple temperature probes may be single, double, or more than two. There are many choices for probe configuration. Examples include straight, penetration, flexible, drop, curved, roller or moving, air, angled, and surface probes. Clamp probes, strap sensor probes, and flat or ribbon temperature probes are also available. Additional specifications for thermocouple temperature probes include diameter or width, sensitive length, and temperature range. 

Parameters for thermocouple temperature probes include process connection and sensor termination type. Typically, the process connection is defined as none or hand held, bayonet, threaded fitting, compression, brazed, welded, or soldered. There are many choices for sensor termination type. Examples include bare or insulated lead wires; metal braided, armor, and flexible conduit leads; terminal blocks, conduit connectors, and screw tabs or lugs; integral connection heads or thermoheads; and plugs or quick connects. Thermocouple temperature probes for specific applications are also available.

• Available Temperature Sensors, Probes & Connectors
  Thermocouples consist of two spot-welded wires of different metals or alloys. The thermoelectric effect at the contact surface is used to measure temperatures. A relatively small thermoelectric...
  (read more)
• Speed of Response Curves
  It is the purpose of the information on this page to give you some general guidelines in estimating the speed of response you might expect from a thermocouple or an RTD. In defining any transient...
  (read more)

Pages: 1 - 3 of 174

Part Numbers for Thermocouple Temperature Probes