Would you like to learn about the technology that is revolutionising temperature monitoring in the chemical, food, aerospace, energy and steel industries? Jacketed thermocouples are just the solution! Read on to understand how these extremely robust, flexible and precise devices can support your business by providing accurate temperature measurements even in the harshest environments.
A thermocouple is a thermoelectric sensor that consists of two semiconductors made of different materials and welded together at one end at a point called the measuring junction. Thermocouples sheathed thermocouples are distinguished than conventional thermocouples due to their smaller size and the fact that they can be bent freely (with a minimum bending radius), which makes them suitable for use in difficult-to-reach measuring locations. measuring points that are difficult to access.
In sheathed thermocouples, the thermal element is embedded in a hard and highly compressed ceramic powder. This acts as an electrical insulator and provides mechanical and chemical protection for the measuring junction. Depending on their material, they can even be used at temperatures in excess of 1500°C.
Type B sheathed temperature sensors (type 901006)
A sheathed thermocouple consists of:
Diameter of the thermocouple sheath determines its flexibility and its strength. It can range from 0.5 to 8.0
mm. A smaller diameter provides greater flexibility, which is advantageous in confined spaces, while a larger diameter increases the mechanical strength and resistance to vibration. When choosing the diameter of the thermocouple sheath, therefore, a trade-off must be made between these properties.
Material of the thermocouple sheath plays an important role in its resistance to high temperatures and corrosion. Sheathed sensors with a sheath made of Inconel 600, a Ni 2.4816 alloy, are corrosion-resistant and ideal for high temperatures. In addition, they are resistant to chlorides and ammonia. On the other hand, jacketed thermocouples made of stainless steel
316 stainless steel are resistant to aggressive agents and fumes.
The choice of the appropriate diameter and sheath material depends on the specific requirements of the application, such as corrosion resistance, mechanical strength or flexibility.
Type J, K, L or N thermocouple with flexible sheathed cable and compensation plug (type 901240)
Let us briefly summarise what you have learned so far. Jacketed thermocouples are characterised by the following features:
Type K, J, L thermocouples with compensating cable (type 901250)
Mantle thermocouples come in many types to suit a variety of applications and operating conditions.
Due to their mechanical strength, flexibility and wide temperature range, sheathed sensors are used in industries requiring precise temperature monitoring. Sheathed thermocouples are part of a typical temperature measurement system. In the chemical industry, for example, they are used to controlling the temperature of processes that are crucial to the quality of the final product. In the food and beverage industry, sheathed thermocouples help to maintain the right conditions for storing and processing foodstuffs.
They are also indispensable in the aerospace industry, where accurate temperature measurements can be crucial to flight safety. Their resistance to vibration and thermal shock makes them ideal for such applications. In the energy and
metallurgy, sheathed thermocouples are used for temperature monitoring under extreme pressure and temperature conditions.
Sheathed temperature sensors are installed in production lines and machines where continuous temperature monitoring is required
W sheathed thermocouples there are two types of sensor tip design: with insulated and grounded measuring points. When we speak of insulated measuring points, it means that the measuring point has no direct connection with the outer sheath of the sensor (we call these measurement points ungrounded). This is the standard type of junction, used mainly in conductive media or when electrical isolation of the of the measuring circuit.
On the other hand, in structures with earthed measuring points, the measuring point is bonded to the outer sheath of the sensor. In the case of earthed measuring points, the response time is considerably shorter; however, they are more susceptible to signal interference.
Sheathed thermocouples, thanks to their unique design, provide highly precise temperature measurements in the harshest industrial environments. They are characterised by their insensitivity to temperature, mechanical resistance, shock resistance and flexibility, making them an indispensable tool in many industries. Sheathed thermocouples are most commonly used in
hardening furnaces and for annealing machine components.
Choosing the right type of sheathed thermocouple depends on the specific requirements of the application, including operating temperature, atmosphere, mechanical conditions and measurement accuracy requirements. It is also important to understand the difference between insulated and grounded, which affect the sensor's response time and its susceptibility to signal interference. This knowledge allows you to choose the optimum solution to meet all your technical requirements, ensuring precise and reliable temperature measurements.
Use jacketed thermocouple technology to improve the quality of your products, processes and services. Act today to provide yourself and your customers with the highest level of temperature control. Contact us and get the right temperature sensor!