Type T Thermocouple Wire, 100ft (30m)

Type T Thermocouple Wire, 100ft (30m)

Type K thermocouple probes¹ have standard two-blade connector. Separate connectors and bulk rolls of Type K thermocouple wire let you build probes as needed. Just install a connector and solder or crimp the ends of the two wires together and you have an inexpensive, disposable probe. Thermocouple wire consists of two conductors, each made from specific materials to ensure accurate temperature measurement. Temperature is measured at the electrical junction only.

Type K and Type T thermocouple probes and extensions can be built by stripping wire end to crimp or solder together for probes or attach Type K or Type T male or female connectors. When stripping wire ends, it is important to ensure that no conductors are left exposed to harsh environments, such as air, to prevent measurement errors. The use of different insulation materials, such as PVC, PFA, fiberglass, or ceramic fiber, depends on the intended application environment and ensures reliable performance under various temperature and chemical conditions. K thermocouples are often referenced along with Type T thermocouples for their respective tolerances at different temperatures.

Overview

Type T is a thermocouple type, and there are several types of thermocouples, each designed for specific applications. Type T thermocouples are a very reliable and accurate type used for low temperature measurements. Known for their stability, they are ideal for cryogenics and ultra-low freezers. Type T is considered a very stable thermocouple, particularly suitable for extremely low temperature applications such as laboratory cryogenics and ultra low temperature freezers. These thermocouples have a positive leg made of copper wire and a negative leg made of constantan alloy wire which gives high thermal conductivity. This composition allows Type T thermocouples to give precise temperature readings, making them a popular choice in scientific and industrial applications. Type T are commonly found in laboratory environments.

Composition and Construction

Type T have a positive leg of pure copper and a negative leg of constantan alloy (55% copper 45% nickel). This combination of materials gives high thermal conductivity and stability. The thermocouple wire is usually insulated with MgO (magnesium oxide) insulation, which is fast response and compact. This insulation material is known for its excellent durability and resistance to thermal shock and vibration, so you get accurate measurement over a wide temperature range. MgO insulation is virtually universal in its chemical resistance and suitability for a wide range of laboratory and industrial environments. The insulation materials used are rated for specific temperature ranges and must meet industry standards to ensure proper performance and safety. The solid, compact state of the insulation further contributes to the thermocouple’s reliability and performance.

Temperature Range and Accuracy

Type T operate from -250°C to400°C so are good for very low applications. They are very accurate with a sensitivity of 43 µV/°C. The copper arm of the thermocouple gives high thermal conductivity so you get fast and precise measurement. The allowable deviation in measurement is defined by industry standards to ensure reliable readings. The error limits for Type T are set by ANSI/ASTM standards, specifying the permissible deviation in temperature measurements. Accuracy is specified as the greater of a fixed value or a percentage of the reading, whichever is greater, to meet strict limits for precision applications. This combination of wide temperature range and high accuracy makes Type T ideal for critical monitoring.

Applications and Uses

Type T are versatile and used in many applications. Careful selection of thermocouple type and insulation is essential to ensure optimal performance and safety for each application.

They are used in laboratory measurement, cryogenics and ultra-low freezers. In industrial applications they are used for measurement in chemical plants and power generation facilities. Type T are particularly suitable for environments requiring high stability and accuracy. The high stability and accuracy of Type T makes them essential in applications where precise measurement is critical so they perform well in harsh environments. In some applications, specific standards or tolerances are required to ensure reliable measurement.

Installation and Maintenance

Proper consideration of environmental and installation factors is essential for optimal thermocouple performance. Type T are easy to install and maintain. To get accurate measurement connect the thermocouple to a voltmeter that can measure millivolts or microvolts to determine the polarity. Knowing the polarity is important to avoid damage and get precise reading. Regular maintenance like checking the insulation material and thermocouple wire can help to prolong the life and accuracy of the thermocouple. By following these simple steps you can keep your Type T in good working condition.