Temperature Sensor

Types of Temperature Sensors

The three most widely used contact types are the thermocouple, the thermistor, and the RTD. Thermocouples offer ruggedness and a very wide range, thermistors give fast and highly sensitive readings, and RTDs provide excellent accuracy, stability, and linearity.

• Thermocouple: two dissimilar metals joined at one end generate a voltage proportional to the temperature difference (Seebeck effect). Self-powered, fast, and rugged, with a very wide range (K, J, T, N, R, S types). Requires cold junction compensation.
• Thermistor (NTC / PTC): a ceramic semiconductor whose resistance changes sharply with temperature. Very sensitive and fast, best for a limited range; its response is non-linear.
• RTD (Pt100 / Pt1000): a platinum element whose resistance rises almost linearly with temperature. High accuracy, repeatability, and long-term stability, with 2, 3, or 4-wire connection options.
• Semiconductor (IC) sensor: silicon-based sensor with analog or digital output, compact and easy to interface with microcontrollers and PLCs.
• Infrared (non-contact) sensor: measures surface temperature from a distance, suited to moving, hot, or hard-to-reach objects.
• Bimetal thermostat: simple mechanical on/off control based on the expansion of two bonded metals.

Comparison at a Glance

• Thermocouple: wide range, rugged, and fast. Typical use: furnaces, kilns, engines, and boilers.
• Thermistor: high sensitivity and fast response. Typical use: HVAC, medical devices, and battery packs.
• RTD: accuracy, stability, and linearity. Typical use: process control, food, pharmaceutical, and laboratory.

Applications of Temperature Sensor

• Industrial furnaces, ovens, and heat treatment
• HVAC and refrigeration systems
• Food processing and pharmaceutical production
• Oil, gas, and petrochemical plants
• Power generation, motors, and transformers
• Laboratory and medical equipment

How to Choose a Temperature Sensor

• Temperature range: select a type that covers the minimum and maximum process temperature
• Accuracy and stability: RTDs for precision, thermocouples for extreme heat, thermistors for narrow-range sensitivity
• Response time: thin or exposed probes respond faster than sensors in thermowells
• Output signal: millivolt, resistance, 4-20 mA, 0-10 V, or digital, matched to the controller or PLC
• Probe material and construction: stainless steel, ceramic, or special alloys for corrosive or high-pressure media
• Protection rating: IP rating, vibration resistance, and suitability for the installation environment
• Connection and mounting: wiring type, thread size, immersion length, and head or connector style

Prices and Technical Support

Temperature sensor prices vary by sensor type, temperature range, accuracy class, probe material, and brand. For an up-to-date price or free technical consultation, our team is ready to help you choose the right thermocouple, thermistor, or RTD for your application.

• Contact form: contact us
• Phone:+9714337738