Industrial and other rugged environments require a durable, high temperature sensor to monitor temperature changes. A high temperature sensor is designed to measure the temperature difference between two different points. It does not accurately measure absolute temperature. A high temperature sensor is inexpensive and interchangeable because it can easily be made from a number of materials based on how it needs to perform. Choosing the right high temperature sensor type and understanding its properties is an important factor in determining the success of its application.
Thermocouples are the most common high temperature sensor. It is designed from two completely different metals joined together at one end. It produces a voltage output output through the two open ends of the metals according to the given temperature. This high temperature sensor responds by increasing voltage as the temperature increases.
The thermocouple high temperature sensor is very durable, accurate and provides a wide temperature range. These are just a few of its key features. The thermocouple high temperature sensor is very flexible because it can be made from any type of material that best fits its applications.
Another common high temperature sensor is a thermocouple known as a resistance temperature detector (RTDs). They are the most commonly high temperature sensor that is used for electrical circuits. An RTD high temperature sensor is mostly used in industrial environments to measure and control temperature. They are designed to produce analog signal outputs, therefore they must be digitalized prior to being installed into computer circuits.
An RTD high temperature sensor provides the highest level of accuracy and stability than other sensors. An RTD high temperature sensor is made up of a platinum wire that is wound onto a small ceramic tube. They are a bit more expensive than a thermocouple and other high temperature sensors. They also need some sort of current source in order to operate. They are useful tools for high-performance, high temperature management applications.
Thermistors are another high temperature sensor that provides highly accurate temperature readings over a narrow range of temperatures. While thermistors can withstand temperatures up to 1000 degrees Celcius, they cannot handle temperatures as high as thermocouples can. This is the reason why they are enclosed in a protective ceramic case. The casing contributes to this high temperature sensor having a slower response time as well.
Thermistors are available in a wide variety of applications. They are also inexpensive which makes them the ideal choice for home temperature management applications.
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