Saturday, August 31, 2013

Fundamental Basics About Thermocouple Types

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 widely utilized forms of temperature gauging devices in use presently. They are utilized to control, measure, and at times change temperature disparities into electricity. Commercial thermocouples are inexpensive and could be inter-changed if they lose functionality. They are available with standard connectors and could be utilized to gauge a broad range of temperatures. Thermocouples differ from other sensors since they are self-powered and do not require external excitation.

Specific metal alloys with predictable and repeatable relationships between voltage and temperature are used in construction of these devices. Different metal alloys are suitable for different temperature ranges. Intermediate connections can be constructed using extension wires in case the measurement point is far from the device. Cheaper material can be used for 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 models are low price general purpose gadgets. They are the most utilized and as such, they come in a variety of probes. They may be applied in any application except if stated otherwise. Their sensitivity is around 41 uV per degree Centigrade and are able to measure temperatures within -200 to 1200 degrees Centigrade. Alumel and Chromel metal alloys are utilized in their construction.

Type J device is non-magnetic and highly sensitive. Its sensitivity is approximated to be 68uV per degree Celsius. Due to its sensitivity, it is suitable for use on low temperature applications. Type J is second in terms of popularity after K. Its junction is composed of iron and constantan and it can be used for temperature ranges of between -40 to +750 degrees Celsius. Use below temperatures of +760 degrees Celsius is not recommendable.

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 terms of sensitivity hence application. The enhanced stability of model S renders it useful as an international standard for gold calibration. S model has lower sensitivity and is costly and making it not suitable for general applications.




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