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Selecting MIL-SPEC Thermocouple Contacts: Calibration, Temperature Range, Resistance
When selecting a thermocouple contact, the following data need to be considered:
- Thermocouple temperature range
- Reaction time
- Abrasion/vibration resistance
- Material chemical resistance
- Calibrations
- Installation specifics
- Compatibility
Thermocouple Calibration
Different thermocouple types are best suited for different applications and are found in various calibrations. They are usually selected on the basis of the temperature range and sensitivity needed. Thermocouples with low sensitivities (B, R, and S types) have correspondingly lower resolutions. The most common thermocouples today are K, T, J and E. Each calibration offers a specific temperature range and must be selected carefully to match the environment in which it will operate.
Temperature range selection – Thermocouple Calibration
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Material
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ASTM E230
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Description
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Color Code
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Connector Operating Temperature
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Alumel
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K
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Type Kn Thermocouple
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200 Deg C
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Chromel
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K
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Type Kp Thermocouple
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200 Deg C
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Constantan
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J
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TypeJn Thermocouple
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200 Deg C
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Iron
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J
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Type Jp Thermocouple
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200 Deg C
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Copper TC
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T
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ASTM E 230 Type T
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200 Deg C
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Be Cu
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ASTM B
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Copper Alloy
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200 Deg C
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leaded Nickel Copper
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ASTM B
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Copper Alloy
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200 Deg C
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Thermocouple Material Selection
(Compacted MgO Thermocouples) All Temprel MgO insulated thermocouples are made using the highest purity MgO for temperatures up to 2300°F (1260°C). The thermo-elements are all ANSI special limits of error to give your measurements the best possible results. The various sheath materials are dependent upon the application. The following list will help you make the best selection:
- 304 SS
Maximum temperature of 1650°F (900°C) and is the most widely used low temperature sheath material. It offers good corrosion resistance but is subject to carbide precipitation in the 900°F to 1600°F (480 to 870°C) range.
- 310 SS
Maximum temperature of 2100°F (1150°C) and offers good mechanical and corrosion resistance similar to 304 SS. Very good heat resistance. Not as ductile as 304 SS.
- 316 S
Maximum temperature of 1650°F (900°C) and has the best corrosion resistance of the austenitic stainless steels. Subject to carbide precipitation in the 900°F to 1600°F (480 to 870°C)
- Inconel®
Maximum temperature 2150°F (1175°C) and is the most widely used thermocouple sheath material. Good high temperature strength, corrosion resistance and is resistant to chloride-ion stress corrosion, cracking and oxidation. Do not use in sulfur bearing environments.
- Hastelloy X
Maximum temperature 2200°F (1205°C) widely used in aerospace applications. Resistant to oxidizing, reducing and neutral atmospheric conditions. Excellent high temperature strength.
Thermocouple Diameter Selection
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Standard Sheath Diameters
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Suggested Upper Temperature Limits
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.020” +.001 -.0005” 1290°F (700°C)
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1290°F (700°C)
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.032” +.001 -.0005” 1290°F (700°C)
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1290°F (700°C)
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.040” +.001 -.0005” 1290°F (700°C)
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1290°F (700°C)
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.063” ±.001” 1690°F (920°C)
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1690°F (920°C)
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.090” ±.001” 1830°F (1000°C)
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1830°F (1000°C)
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.125” +.002 -.001” 1960°F (1070°C)
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1960°F (1070°C)
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.188” +.002 -.001” 2100°F (1150°C)
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2100°F (1150°C)
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.250” +.003 -.001” 2100°F (1150°C)
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2100°F (1150°C)
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(All MgO compacted thermocouples can be bent on a radius of twice the sheath diameter.)
Selection of the Measuring Junction
Sheathed thermocouples are available in 3 junction types: grounded, ungrounded, and exposed. Each design offers specific advantages as well as disadvantages and must considered carefully when placing an order.
- Grounded
The thermo-elements are welded into the end cap using the same weld rod as the sheath material. Fast time response. Recommended for high-pressure applications, liquids, moisture, contaminating atmospheres, and most general uses. Least expensive.
- Ungrounded
The thermo-elements are welded together and are electrically isolated from the sheath. Recommended for applications where stray EMF’s from electrical apparatus would affect the reading. More expensive.
- Exposed
The thermo-elements are welded together outside of the sheath. This provides the fastest time response, but exposes the elements to contamination. Electrically isolated from the sheath.
- Inconel®
The registered trademark of INCO Alloys International.
- Hastelloy X
The registered trademark of Haynes International.
Other Topics to Consider: thermocouple accuracy, thermocouple temperature range, type of thermocouple and range, thermocouple connectors, thermocouple connector types, thermocouple cable, thermocouple cable manufacturers, thermocouple materials, thermocouple junction, calibration of thermocouples.
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