Saturday, August 31, 2013

Fundamentals Concerning Thermocouple Types Used Today

By Kate McMahon


Modern technological advancements have resulted into development of many thermocouple types to suit various applications. Although there are several types of thermocouples, the working principles are the same across all of them. Basically, this device consists of dissimilar conductors, which make contact and produce a voltage when warmed or heated. The amount of voltage generated depends on the difference in temperature between the metal junction and other components of the circuit.

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.

Particular metal alloys with repeatable and predictable relationships between voltages and temperature are utilized in the manufacture of these gadgets. Different metal alloys are appropriate for different ranges of temperature. Intermediate connections may be constructed by use of extension wires if the measurement position is far from the equipment. Cheaper material may be utilized 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 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 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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