Tips for buying thermocouples
There are a lot of different types of thermocouples. These are the devices that have certain sensors that enables them to measure temperature. They are actually made of two dissimilar metals that are usually alloys. These two metals are jined together at one end. In order to ensure that the efficiency is maintained, the alloys are made of pure metals. The place where the two alloys are joined is called a junction. When this junction experiences a change in the temperature, a voltage is produced. This voltage directly correlates to a temperature, which you can measure with the help of this.
Thermocouples are usually sold in the form of wires and they are made of alloys. You will be able to get thermocouples in a variety of combinations. These combinations differ based on the calibration of the thermocouple or the metals as well. Most popularly, four kinds of calibrations – E, J, K and T are sold. For the higher temperatures, R, S, C and GB calibrations are sold. These calibrations will be different in terms of their structure and their features and most importantly, the temperature range. These calibrations will also behave differently under different environmental conditions.
Other than the calibration , another thing that might influence the temperature range is the diameter of the wire used. For instance, if you use a thin wire, you might not get complete access to the whole range of temperature. Aside from this, thermocouples are also classified based on their junction. You can get sheathed, grounded or exposed junctions. In a grounded thermocouple, the wires will be attached to the wall’s inside. In an ungrounded one, the wires will be detached. The reaction time for a grounded one is better, but an ungrounded one gives a higher level of electrical isolation.
For the ease of finding out the features of thermocouples and for the ease of selection of the right thermocouple, you can use the table. All the thermocouples have specified spots where they have been placed on the reference table. The table comes with international color codes through which you can recognize the alloys. You can also get information about the temperature range, limit, limits of error quite easily through the table.
All of this would certainly have a hand in determining whether or not you buy a thermocouple or rather whether you buy the right one. It is imperative that you get the right thermocouple because you stand a lot of gain from it. These thermocouples are widely used in industries because of their wide temperature range. These thermocouples are also quite rugged, which makes them ideal for wear and tear. You have to keep a lot of things in mind while getting a thermocouple- the temperature limit and range you need, the compatibility and installation etc.
Just keep your needs and requirements in mind when you go to find out which kind of thermocouple you should get.
.