Temperature probes are temperature sensor types designed to detect, monitor, and measure air, surface, and liquid temperatures. These probes operate by submerging them into liquids, placing them on a surface, and inserting them into an object. They offer robust measurement performance with high accuracy. A temperature probe consists of different length cables and plugs for easy installation within various challenging industrial and commercial environments. In addition, depending on the probe type, they are constructed from durable and sturdy stainless-steel materials and come in multiple forms to complement thermometers and other supporting instruments.
How Do Temperature Probes Work?
Most simply, the integrated probe sensor generates voltages that fluctuate with varying temperatures. The connected devices then read the generated voltage and provide measurements for readings.
How Many Types of Temperature Probes are There?
Temperature sensor probes are classified into the following types based on the sensor technology and include:
- Thermocouples: Thermocouples are the most prominent temperature probes in various settings due to their high speed of temperature-changing response, ease of use, and different temperature ranges. However, they offer less stability over time and often require replacement. Thermocouples are available as sub-types with various constructions, allowing multiple temperatures. For example, the most popular thermocouple type, K, offers a temperature range of -180 to 1300 C.
- RTD - Resistive Temperature Detector : Resistive temperature detectors are temperature probes that offer high accuracy. They are made from conductive metallic materials, like copper, platinum, or nickel. Like thermocouples, they also allow for varied temperatures and mostly need replacement due to the issue of longevity.
- NTC - Negative Temperature Coefficient thermistor
These temperature thermistors are designed to have a quick response to temperature changes. They offer high precision and are cost-effective. However, unlike the RTD and thermocouples, these sensor probes offer smaller temperature ranges.
What are the Uses of Temperature Probes?
These robust temperature sensing probes are found in various industrial, commercial, and scientific environments with a vast range of applications. They offer vital functions to monitor and provide precise temperature measurements while investigating and testing equipment. They are the essential components for environments, such as:
- Laboratories
- HVAC Systems
- Agriculture
- Aerospace
- Chemical Industry
- Boiler units
- Energy and Power Stations
- Air Conditioning and Refrigeration
- Stoves & Grills
- Plastic Processing
- Food Processing.
