| Image | Part Number | Description / PDF | Quantity | Rfq |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Texas Instruments |
MICROPOWER THERMOCOUPLE COLD JUN |
483 |
|
Thermocouples and temperature probes are critical components in temperature measurement systems. Thermocouples operate based on the Seebeck effect, generating a voltage proportional to temperature differences between two dissimilar metals. Temperature probes encompass a broader category, including resistance temperature detectors (RTDs), thermistors, and infrared sensors. These devices are essential in industrial process control, medical diagnostics, energy systems, and environmental monitoring, enabling precise thermal management and data acquisition.
| Type | Functional Characteristics | Application Examples |
|---|---|---|
| K-Type Thermocouple | Wide temperature range (-200 C to 1350 C), cost-effective, general-purpose | Industrial furnaces, HVAC systems |
| J-Type Thermocouple | High accuracy in mid-range (-40 C to 750 C), iron-constantan construction | Plastics processing, laboratory equipment |
| T-Type Thermocouple | Copper-constantan, stable in cryogenic applications (-200 C to 350 C) | Cryogenics, food industry |
| RTD Probes (Pt100) | High precision ( 0.1 C), stable long-term performance | Pharmaceutical processing, precision ovens |
| Thermistor Probes | High sensitivity in limited range (-50 C to 150 C) | Medical thermometers, 3D printers |
Thermocouples consist of two dissimilar metal wires (e.g., chromel-alumel for K-type) joined at a measuring junction, insulated with ceramic beads, and protected by a metal sheath (typically Inconel or stainless steel). Temperature probes integrate sensing elements (RTD coils, thermistor chips) within protective housings. RTD probes use platinum wire wound around a ceramic core, while thermistor probes employ semiconductor ceramics. Both incorporate connection heads with terminal blocks and optional transmitters for signal conditioning.
| Parameter | Significance |
|---|---|
| Temperature Range | Determines operational limits in specific environments |
| Accuracy ( C) | Impacts measurement reliability and process control |
| Response Time (ms) | Affects dynamic measurement capability |
| Material Compatibility | Corrosion resistance and mechanical durability |
| Output Signal Type | Dictates compatibility with data acquisition systems |
| Manufacturer | Representative Product | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Omega Engineering | KMTSS-116-6 | Metal-sheathed K-type thermocouple, 1/16" diameter |
| Keysight Technologies | U1217A | Digital thermometer with RTD probe ( 0.05 C accuracy) |
| Honeywell | TPC-101J | J-type thermocouple with ceramic insulation for extruders |
| TE Connectivity | CTTC951 | Miniature thermocouple for PCB mounting |
Key considerations include: operating temperature range (avoid exceeding sensor limits), environmental factors (vibration, chemical exposure), required accuracy (RTDs for critical processes), response time (critical in dynamic systems), and cost constraints. For example, select mineral-insulated thermocouples for high-vibration environments and infrared probes for non-contact measurements in moving machinery.
Current developments include wireless temperature probes with integrated IoT connectivity (e.g., Bluetooth-enabled sensors), nanotechnology-enhanced thermocouples for extreme environments, and self-calibrating smart probes using AI algorithms. The market shows increasing demand for miniature sensors (sub-1mm probes for medical catheters) and energy-harvesting thermocouples for industrial wireless networks.