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Thermocouples are temperature sensors known for their excellent measurement range and reliability. An S-type thermocouple works well at extreme temperatures, making it one of the most popular choices in heat treatment and metals processing.
Besides the above-described applications, this thermocouple also works in several other industries. These industries include chemical, oil and gas, and power generation. People prefer this thermocouple due to its precision, durability, versatility, and geometrical configuration for different environments.
This thermocouple uses an alloying of platinum and rhodium wire to work. When there is a temperature gradient on the two wires, it generates a voltage based on the Seebeck effect. Note that the more the temperature difference, the more the voltage. The wires then connect into a junction that senses the temperature and reports the amount of temperature measured.
Some common types of S-type thermocouples include:
For an S-type thermocouple to work reliably for long durations in extreme environments, it needs to have high durability. In addition, the materials used to design an S-type thermocouple play a key role in this longevity.
The main materials that make up an S-type thermocouple are rhodium and platinum, known for their excellent durability properties. A platinum wire can resist oxidation and corrosion in high-temperature environments. In addition, it maintains its mechanical integrity over time. On the other hand, rhodium, which is alloyed with platinum, provides a layer of stability to the thermocouple. This addition helps with temperature fluctuations.
Other than the metals listed above, an S-type thermocouple comes with a protective sheath made of stainless steel, Inconel, or other nickel-based alloys. Note that these materials:
People use S-type thermocouples in various industries, particularly where they need high precision and reliability at extreme temperatures. Below are the polished commercial S-type thermocouple applications:
The market avails several types of S-type thermocouples to business owners. Below are key factors to consider when selecting this temperature sensor for clients:
For which application will the thermocouple be used? Although S-type thermocouples work in high environments, other thermocouples work well in low range-temperature areas.
How extreme will the temperature be? Thermocouples work satisfactorily in a variety of temperature ranges. For instance, clients who want to use their thermocouples in high-temperature areas like kilns and furnaces will benefit from S-types. This thermocouple can withstand temperatures of up to 1,600 degrees Celsius.
Think about the environment the thermocouple will be exposed to. For instance, if the end user uses it in an outdoor open space and under direct sunlight, an S-type thermocouple is resistant to weather elements. It will perform well in such an environment as it can handle adverse weather elements.
How accurate does the client need their thermocouple to be? Generally, the more noble metals are in a thermocouple, the more accurate it is. Good thing about the S-type thermocouple is that it offers an accuracy of +/-1.5%.
S-type thermocouples have either a welded junction or a ground one. Businesses getting a self-regulating heating cable that they can use in temperature-sensitive applications should look for an S-type thermocouple with a welded junction.
Clients can find these S-type thermocouples in different materials, such as stainless steel, Inconel, and much more. Each of these materials has its unique properties. For instance, Inconel is an excellent option for a harsh environment because it is super strong and possesses good chemical resistance. On the other hand, although stainless steel is not as strong as Inconel, it is cost-friendly.
The response time measures how fast the thermocouple reacts to a temperature change. Normally, it is determined by the thickness or diameter of the sheath. Therefore, the thinner or smaller the sheath, the faster the thermocouple will be responsive to temperature changes.
Conversing about the thermocouple's application environment can help the clients pick an S-type thermocouple that meets their needs' effectiveness and efficiency.
No. S-type thermocouples can withstand up to 1,600 degrees Celsius. An electric soldering iron can only hit 350 degrees Celsius. Therefore, it cannot reach the thermocouple's maximum temperature.
People mostly extend the life of S-type thermocouples by preventing overheating. This action also helps them maintain accuracy. Other than not exposing the thermocouple to high heat, regularly replacing the materials exposed to the thermocouple also increases its lifespan. Note that the feedback from the thermocouple can cause wear and tear in other components within the system. Thus, replacing the worn-out parts will also maintain the health of the S-type thermocouples.
Since it is the maximum temperature that the S-type thermocouple can endure, it will probably start experiencing gradual degradation in sensing performance at this point. Although the materials that make up the thermocouple are heat-resistant, they eventually weaken when exposed to a high amount of heat for a long time.
Clients should maintain their S-type thermocouples at a desirable temperature, always insulated, and shielded from electromagnetic interference. Using high-quality materials and ensuring proper installation will also reduce possible factors affecting the thermocouple's precision.
The key practices underpinning the maintenance of S-type thermocouples involve regular cleaning, protecting them from mechanical damage, and ensuring proper installation. It is also important to reduce exposure to corrosive materials and high-vibration environments.