We all rely on thermometers to measure temperature, but not all temperature sensors are the same. You need to choose a temperature sensor that is accurate, durable, and reliable—and that’s where temperature probes come in.
Temperature probes are used in labs to measure the temperature in a particular area.
They can be used during experiments, in process control, and the storage and transport of valuable chemicals and materials.
In this post, we’ll discuss what temperature probes are, their features, and how to choose the right temperature probe for your needs.
What are Temperature Probes?
According to Process Parameters (https://www.processparameters.co.uk/temperature-probes/), temperature probes are devices that are used to measure the degree of heat or cold and convert it into a simple unit. Have you ever wondered by the temperature of houses, great concrete dams, land boreholes or soil is measured? Well, it is carried out with the use of specific temperature probes.
Temperature probes have several applications in our daily lives. They’re used in microwaves, refrigerators, domestic water heaters and even thermometers.
Temperature probes are installed to regularly monitor special structures such as railway tracks, highway bridges, soil or concrete dams. The most common type of temperature sensor is the thermometer which is used to measure the degree of temperature.
The thermocouple is also a handy temperature probe. Also known as T/C, a thermocouple is made from two metals that release an electrical output voltage which is directly related to the modification of temperature. This voltage can be read by a Voltmeter easily.
Another example of a temperature probe is the Resistance Temperature Detector (RTD). An RTD is a resistor that directly adjusts the electrical resistance with the temperature variation.
Geotechnical controlling area is also part of the types of temperature probes. They’re used in this field to regulate the condition of bridges on water or soil, concrete structures and more to measure structural variations caused by seasonal changes.
What Does a Temperature Probe Do?
There are several types of temperature sensors. However, the best way to classify them is based on their connection mode. They can either be contact or non-contact temperature probes.
Contact sensors comprise thermistors and thermocouples since they’re directly in contact with the object that they’re measuring.
On the other hand, non-contact temperature probes determine the thermal radiation that is produced by a heat source. These temperature probes are mainly used around hazardous environments such as thermal power plants or nuclear power plants.
During geotechnical monitoring, temperature probes are used to measure the hydration heat in concrete structures. They can be used also to observe the migration of seepage or groundwater. One of the common places where they can be used is when curing concrete because it needs to be relatively warm to properly set and cure. Seasonal variations result in structural contraction and expansion; thus, altering the overall volume.
How to Choose the Right Temperature Probe
Picking the right temperature probe for you tends to be a daunting task. This can be the case especially in the present market where there are myriads of options available. Should you choose thermocouples, RTDs or thermistors? Here, you will find the differences between them and then decide which is the best for you.
RTDs are less economical as compared to thermocouples because their manufacturing process is more expensive. This could be a critical factor depending on which probes you require for your application. RTDs are also known to produce more reliable output and stability. Therefore, you can choose the type of temperature probe that is most suitable for you.
The major difference between RTDs and thermistors is their temperature range. If you intend to use a temperature probe to measure temperatures over 130°C, then your only option is the RTD. Thermistors are usually preferred if the temperature is lower but accuracy is important. RTDs are often preferred if tolerance is important. Overall, RTDs are great for temperature compensation whereas thermistors are great for precision measurement.
Benefits for Each Temperature Probe
Thermocouples
These are the most common probes in the industry. Here are some of its benefits:
- Low cost.
- Vibration resistant.
- Fast response. Offers the fastest feedback to changes in temperatures.
- Highest temperatures. They can measure up to 650°C and above.
RTDs
RTDs also provide numerous benefits and applications. They comprise:
- Best for high temperatures.
- Rarely affected by the environment. They have a strong casing that protects them even during adverse weather conditions.
- Immune to electrical noise. This makes them a great option for industrial environments.
Thermistors
Thermistors are the best temperature probes to measure temperatures below 150°C. Their benefits include:
- Affordable. They are two times cheaper than RTDs. That is why they’re used for household appliances.
- Highest sensitivity. On that temperature range, they perform even better than RTDs.
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