This post will cover the various thermocouple connector types, which are the connectors used to make thermocouple cables.
Below, you’ll learn how temperature is measured with thermocouple sensors, how temperature change affects the measurement process, and which type of connector is best suited for your application.
What is a Thermocouple
First of all we will understand what a thermocouple is and what its functions are. According to Process Parameters (https://www.processparameters.co.uk/thermocouple-connector/), a thermocouple is a tool with a sensor for measuring temperature. They have two metal wires at one end connected to a thermocouple thermometer at the other end.
How to Identify the Best Type of Thermocouple for Your Needs
Thermocouple are known to be quite versatile and can be applied on a wide range. Some are industrial range sensors while others are for basic use on regular appliances.
In order to find the right one for you, it is important to know the basic structure of a thermocouple, the ranges and other technical specifications to determine the right one for your application.
Thermocouple Connectors
Essentially, there are three thermocouple connector types. Mini plug, also known as sub mminiature plug or SMP. This one is probably the simplest and most basic one since the thermocouple is already pre-wired into a plug-in terminal.
The second type of thermocouple connector is called the screw terminal. This one is a bit more complicated and it requires you to open the data logger case and connect the thermocouple wires inside data logger to ensure that the wires are secured and can only be accessed by opening the data logger.
The third and final type of thermocouple is known as the terminal block. It has a greenie which is connected to the data logger. The thermocouple wires and the greenie are then connected and this ensures that it can be detached from the data logger.
What are the different types of Thermocouple wires?
A wide range of materials are used to make this high temperature wire. It is available with PVC, ceramaflex, FEP,PFA TFE and fiberglass insulation.
The different types of thermocouple wires include: Types K, J, N, T, E, S, R, and B.
Type K is probably the most common and all-purpose thermocouple type due to its low cost, its duurability, accuracy and wide operating temperature range.
Type J is a bit similar to Type K, but has a lower operating temperature range and higher sensitivity.
Type N is popularly framed the “new and improved” Type K. It is resistant to high temperature oxidation.
Type T is most suitable for extremely low temperatures. It is mostly used in freezers and cryogenics.
Type is also suited for low temperature applications and has the highest sensitivity of all thermocouples.
The rest are types S,R and B. These have lower sensitivities, but higher costs. They are well suited for high temperature measurements.
Thermocouple Wire Colour Coding
Sometimes, using the wrong thermocouple wire can end up being a very costly and dangerous mistake. That is one of the main reasons there are established colour codes in place.
There are many different kinds of thermocouples out there, so it is best to be on the safe side when it comes to colour codes.
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