Paperless Recorders for Industrial Measure & Control System

Paperless recorders are data loggers that record and trend measurement data over time — replacing strip-chart and circular recorders with a touchscreen, internal flash storage, and Ethernet/Modbus TCP/OPC UA export.

Paperless recorders for industrial measure and control system

Sino-Inst supplies industrial paperless recorders with 4 to 64 universal-input channels (thermocouple, RTD, mV, 4–20 mA, 0–10 V, pulse). Models cover general-process duty (R7100), temperature-focused heat-treat / pharmaceutical service (R7600), and dedicated flow-totalizer applications (F3000X). 21 CFR Part 11 audit trail and AMS 2750E compliance options are available, with Modbus TCP, OPC UA, and MQTT for SCADA / MES integration.

Sino-Inst offers a variety of low pressure transducers for industrial pressure measurement. If you have any questions, please contact our sales engineers.

Description

The paperless recorder is an electronic instrument that samples industrial process signals through a 24-bit ADC, applies the standard linearization (IEC 60584 for thermocouples, Callendar-Van Dusen for RTDs, scaled engineering units for 4–20 mA), and writes the result to internal flash storage. Up to 64 channels per chassis with 3-way galvanic isolation between channel-channel, channel-power, and channel-comms.

Front-panel touchscreen for live trend, alarm history and configuration. Trend stored as a tamper-evident binary file plus CSV; signed-PDF export available for 21 CFR Part 11 batch reporting. Communications include Ethernet 10/100, Modbus TCP slave, OPC UA server, MQTT publisher, USB host, and RS-485 Modbus RTU.

Features of Paperless Recorder

  • Universal input: K/J/T/E/N/S/R/B thermocouple, Pt100/Pt1000 RTD, 4–20 mA, 0–10 V, ±100 mV, pulse 0.1 Hz–10 kHz.
  • 4 / 8 / 16 / 32 / 48 / 64-channel models — pluggable hot-swap input cards.
  • 24-bit sigma-delta ADC, 100 ms–1 s sampling, configurable per-channel storage interval.
  • 3-way galvanic isolation (channel-channel, channel-power, channel-comms).
  • 21 CFR Part 11 audit trail, AMS 2750E heat-treat, GAMP 5, IEC 61010-1 compliance options.
  • Communications: Ethernet, Modbus TCP, OPC UA, MQTT, RS-485 Modbus RTU, USB host/device.
  • Front-panel IP65 for wash-down food and pharmaceutical service.
  • 3.5" / 5.6" / 7" / 10.4" / 12" TFT touchscreen, 4 GB flash + SD card.

Specifications of Paperless Recorder

ParameterR7100 UniversalR7600 TemperatureF3000X Flow Totalizer
Channels4 / 8 / 16 / 32 / 648 / 16 / 322 / 4 (pulse + 4–20 mA)
Display5.6" / 7" / 10.4"7" / 10.4"5.6"
Memory4 GB + SD card4 / 8 GB + SD2 GB + SD
Sampling100 ms / 200 ms / 1 s200 ms / 1 s100 ms (pulse) / 1 s
Compliance21 CFR Part 11AMS 2750E + 21 CFR Part 11OIML R117 (custody)
CommunicationsEthernet, Modbus TCP, OPC UA, MQTTEthernet, Modbus TCP, OPC UAEthernet, Modbus TCP, RS-485
Power90–264 VAC / 24 VDC90–264 VAC / 24 VDC90–264 VAC / 24 VDC
Panel cutout144 × 144 / 144 × 288 mm144 × 144 / 288 × 288 mm96 × 96 / 144 × 144 mm
Front panel ratingIP65IP65IP65

Read more about: Common Units Of Pressure

Applications of Paperless Recorder

  • Heat-treat furnace AMS 2750E TUS — 9 thermocouples + 1 control = 16-channel R7600 with Class 1 calibration.
  • Pharmaceutical sterilizer / autoclave — 21 CFR Part 11 mode, F0 calculation, signed batch report.
  • Food retort cook-cool validation — 1-minute storage, F0 trend, IP65 wash-down front.
  • HVAC and energy monitoring — temperature + flow + pulse from kWh, Modbus TCP to BMS.
  • Boiler / CHP plant — steam temperature, drum level, fuel-flow trending.
  • Custody flow measurement — F3000X with density/temperature compensation, batch totalizer.

What is a paperless recorder?

The paperless recorder is a stand-alone process data logger that replaces a strip-chart or circular recorder. Where the older instrument drew an ink trace on paper as the chart wheel rotated, the paperless recorder samples the same inputs at 100 ms–1 s, displays the trend on a touchscreen, and stores the values to internal flash for compliance and audit retrieval.

The recorded data are written as a tamper-evident binary file plus a CSV companion. The binary is the legally defensible record (signed checksum); the CSV is the convenience export for spreadsheets. Trend data and configuration changes are timestamped against an NTP-synced clock so the audit trail satisfies FDA 21 CFR Part 11 and AMS 2750E requirements for pharmaceutical and aerospace heat-treat work.

How does a paperless recorder work?

The paperless recorder is built around an industrial microprocessor, a 24-bit sigma-delta ADC, RAM and flash storage, and a touchscreen front. Each input channel is multiplexed through the ADC at the configured sampling rate (typical: 1 s per channel for compliance work, 100–200 ms for combustion and compressor monitoring).

The microprocessor applies the appropriate linearization curve (IEC 60584-1 for thermocouples, Callendar-Van Dusen for Pt100/Pt1000 RTDs, scaled engineering units for 4–20 mA inputs), computes alarm logic (HiHi / Hi / Lo / LoLo with deadband and on-delay), and writes the storage-interval-averaged value to internal flash. On alarm, a burst-capture routine stores the full sampling-rate data around the event so post-incident analysis sees the raw waveform.

Q&A

Is a paperless recorder the same as a data logger?

Closely related but not identical. A data logger is typically a small standalone unit with battery power and limited inputs; a paperless recorder is panel-mounted, plant-powered, with a touchscreen, more channels, built-in alarms, and SCADA integration.

How many channels do I need for a typical heat-treat furnace?

AMS 2750E TUS (temperature uniformity survey) calls for 9 thermocouples on a 60-225 cubic-foot furnace plus the control thermocouple – 10 channels active. Allow one card-slot of headroom and pick a 16-channel R7100 or R7600.

What protocols are available for SCADA integration?

Modbus TCP slave is standard. OPC UA server, MQTT publisher, and Modbus RTU (RS-485) are option keys. USB host accepts a flash drive for ad-hoc CSV export; Ethernet web server allows browser-based trend download.

Do paperless recorders need calibration?

Yes – annually for compliance work, every 2 years for non-critical applications. Calibration is per channel and includes the cold-junction reference for thermocouple inputs. Field calibrators (Fluke 754, Ametek MC) inject known signals and write the verification result to the audit trail.

What if I lose power mid-batch?

Internal flash memory is non-volatile, so the recorded data up to the power-off instant is preserved. The recorder reboots and resumes; a power-loss event is logged in the audit trail. For absolute continuity, a small UPS or 24 VDC battery backup is the recommended add-on.

R7100 Universal-Input Recorder

4 to 64 channels, universal input (TC/RTD/mA/V), 7″ or 10.4″ touchscreen, 4 GB internal + SD, Ethernet + Modbus TCP.

R7600 Temperature Recorder

8 / 16 / 32-channel temperature-focused recorder. 24-bit ADC, 3-way galvanic isolation, AMS 2750E-ready trend export.

F3000X Flow Totalizer

Specialized flow-totalizer recorder: pulse + 4–20 mA input, density/temp compensation, batch totalizer, RS-485 Modbus.

Sino-Inst supplies paperless recorders globally — heat-treat, pharma, food, HVAC, boiler, custody flow.

Channel counts from 4 to 64. Universal-input cards. 21 CFR Part 11 / AMS 2750E compliance options. Modbus TCP, OPC UA, and MQTT for modern SCADA / MES / IIoT integration.

Sino-Inst is a Chinese manufacturer with a global distribution network. Paperless recorders are most popular in heat-treatment, pharmaceutical, food, HVAC, and boiler / CHP markets across North America, Europe, India, and Southeast Asia. Send your channel mix, panel cutout, communication protocol and certification target — our team will configure and quote within 24 hours.

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Type K Thermocouple Chart: mV Reference, Tolerance, and Color Codes

A Type K thermocouple chart converts the millivolt output of a chromel/alumel junction into a temperature reading at 0 °C cold-junction reference. The chart is the IEC 60584-1 reference table — the same numbers used inside every Type K transmitter and recorder for cold-junction compensation. To use the chart correctly you need the formula Thot = chart−1(Vmeasured + Vcold-junction), the IEC tolerance class for your wire, and the regional color code so you do not reverse polarity.

Contents

How to Read the Chart with Cold-Junction Compensation

A Type K thermocouple does not directly measure the hot junction temperature — it measures the difference between the hot junction and the cold (reference) junction. The chart assumes the cold junction is at exactly 0 °C. In practice it is at room temperature, so the measurement procedure has three steps.

  1. Measure the thermocouple voltage Vtc with a high-impedance meter (>1 MΩ).
  2. Measure the cold-junction (terminal-block) temperature Tcj with a separate sensor — typically an internal RTD on the recorder or transmitter.
  3. Look up Vcj from the chart at Tcj, add to Vtc, then look up the temperature for the corrected mV. Thot = chart−1(Vtc + Vcj).

Worked example. The wire reads Vtc = 8.000 mV. The terminal block is at Tcj = 25 °C, which on the chart is Vcj = 1.000 mV. Total = 9.000 mV. From the Type K chart, 9.000 mV corresponds to about 221 °C. That is the hot-junction temperature. Skipping the cold-junction step in this example would have given 196 °C — 25 °C low, exactly the terminal-block error. Modern transmitters and recorders perform this correction automatically; if you ever read a Type K with a bench multimeter, do it manually.

Type K mV Reference Table (−200 to +1372 °C)

The full IEC 60584-1 chart for Type K covers 1572 °C of range in 1 °C steps. The condensed reference points below cover most engineering reads.

Temp (°C)EMF (mV)Temp (°C)EMF (mV)Temp (°C)EMF (mV)
−200−5.8912008.13880033.275
−100−3.55425010.15390037.326
−50−1.88930012.209100041.276
00.00040016.397110045.119
251.00050020.644120048.838
502.02360024.905130052.410
1004.09670029.129137254.886

The Seebeck coefficient (slope of the curve, dV/dT) is approximately 41 µV/°C across the working range — the highest among the base-metal types. That is why Type K is the workhorse of industrial temperature measurement: high signal-to-noise and a 41 µV resolution per 1 °C, comfortably above the ~10 µV input noise of any decent transmitter. For long-term recording on a multi-channel system see our paperless recorder selection guide.

Eight Thermocouple Types Compared at a Glance

The IEC standard defines eight letter-coded thermocouple types. Type K covers most general industry; the others fill out the high-temperature, vacuum, and precision corners.

TypeConductors (+ / −)Range (°C)Sensitivity at 25 °C (µV/°C)Best fit
KChromel / Alumel−200 to +137241General industry; oxidising atmosphere up to 1100 °C
JIron / Constantan−210 to +120052Vacuum, inert, reducing atmospheres; sensitive to oxidation above 540 °C
TCopper / Constantan−270 to +40043Cryogenic and food-process service; resists moisture corrosion
EChromel / Constantan−270 to +100068Highest sensitivity of the base-metal types; cryogenic precision
NNicrosil / Nisil−270 to +130039Drift-resistant alternative to K above 800 °C; aerospace and metallurgy
SPt-10%Rh / Pt0 to +176810Calibration standard; clean oxidising atmospheres up to 1450 °C
RPt-13%Rh / Pt−50 to +176811Industrial high-temperature reference; petrochemical, glass
BPt-30%Rh / Pt-6%Rh0 to +182010 (above 600 °C)Steel-mill, glass-melt; insensitive below 50 °C — no cold-junction compensation needed

Read the comparison this way: K is default, T for sub-zero, E for highest sensitivity, N when K drifts, S/R/B for very high temperatures. For the deeper trade-off vs platinum RTDs see our RTD vs thermocouple comparison.

IEC 60584 and ASTM E230 Tolerance Classes

Tolerance is the maximum permitted deviation between the actual emf and the standard table emf. IEC 60584-2 and ASTM E230 define three classes; the figure quoted on a thermocouple datasheet is the worst-case error before any in-house calibration.

ClassType K toleranceApplication
Class 1 (IEC) / Special (ASTM)±1.5 °C up to +375 °C, then ±0.4 % of readingLab, calibration, precision process
Class 2 (IEC) / Standard (ASTM)±2.5 °C up to +333 °C, then ±0.75 % of readingDefault industrial spec, most commercial wire
Class 3 (IEC, sub-zero only)±2.5 °C up to −167 °C, then ±1.5 % of readingCryogenic service; not a US-recognised class

A 1000 °C process measured with a Class 2 K thermocouple has up to ±7.5 °C tolerance from the wire alone. Add the transmitter’s ±0.1 % FS, the cold-junction compensation error of ±0.5 °C, and the cable termination drift, and the loop accuracy is around ±10 °C in the worst case. Class 1 wire halves the wire-side error to about ±4 °C and is worth the price premium for furnace control loops where a 5 °C swing changes the metallurgical result.

Color Codes: ANSI, IEC, JIS, BS

Color code is the most common cause of installation error. Type K wire is yellow under ANSI MC96.1 (US) but green under IEC 60584-3 (Europe). The negative leg is red under ANSI but white under IEC. Crossing the standards results in a polarity reversal and an apparent negative reading.

StandardRegionType K positiveType K negativeOuter jacket
ANSI MC96.1USAYellowRedYellow
IEC 60584-3Europe, IEC countriesGreenWhiteGreen
BS 1843UK (legacy)BrownBlueRed
JIS C 1610JapanRedWhiteBlue
DIN 43710Germany (legacy, replaced by IEC)RedGreenGreen

Two practical rules. First, always check the printed standard on the cable jacket before terminating; assume nothing from color alone. Second, the negative leg of every magnetic-iron type (K, J) is the magnetic conductor — alumel and constantan are weakly attracted to a small magnet, while chromel and iron-positive K are not. A field magnet test resolves polarity confusion in seconds.

Five Common Mistakes Reading a Thermocouple Chart

  1. Skipping cold-junction compensation. Reading the chart with only the field mV ignores the terminal-block temperature and produces an error equal to the room temperature in °C. Always add Vcj before the lookup.
  2. Using the wrong thermocouple type’s chart. Confusing K with J or N looks identical on a multimeter. Identifying by color or jacket print is mandatory; “looked like K” loses 5–10 % accuracy.
  3. Reversed polarity on extension wire. Connecting K-positive (yellow/green) to the transmitter’s negative input swings the reading symmetrically — a 200 °C source reads as if at the cold-junction temperature. Drift suddenly looks like the process is cold.
  4. Using copper extension wire on a Type K loop. Copper introduces a parasitic junction at the terminal block. The reading is right at room temperature and wrong everywhere else. Always use matching K extension wire (KX) up to the cold-junction reference point.
  5. Ignoring the upper limit. Type K above 1100 °C in oxidizing atmosphere drifts +1 to +2 °C per 100 hours from “green-rot” of the chromel leg. The chart is mathematically correct; the wire is not. For continuous service above 1100 °C use Type N or platinum-rhodium types.

Most of these errors are hidden by a transmitter’s burnout-protection and CJC logic; on a bench multimeter they are exposed. If a junior engineer is building a calibration rig from a multimeter and a thermocouple, walk through these five with them on day one. For the wiring side see our 4–20 mA transmitter wiring types guide.

Pt-Rh Type S/R/B Thermocouple

Standard platinum-rhodium element for service above 1300 °C. Type S/R/B options, ceramic or metal sheath, calibration certificate to IEC 60584 Class 1. Used where Type K drifts: glass-melt, steel ladle, gas-turbine combustor.

Furnace Thermocouple Assembly

Type K mineral-insulated assembly for kiln, furnace, and heat-treat service to 1200 °C. Inconel 600 sheath, optional alumina protection tube for atmosphere isolation, AMS 2750E calibration option for aerospace heat-treat lines.

Integrated Temperature Transmitter

Head-mounted 4–20 mA / HART transmitter for K, J, N, T, E, R, S, B thermocouples and Pt100/Pt1000 RTDs. Built-in cold-junction compensation, burnout detection, and IEC 60584 chart linearization. ATEX intrinsically safe option.

FAQ

How do you read a Type K thermocouple table?

Measure the thermocouple millivolts with a high-impedance meter, then add the cold-junction compensation millivolts read from the same chart at the terminal-block temperature. Look up the corrected total in the table to get the hot-junction temperature. Modern transmitters do this automatically; for a bench multimeter you do it by hand.

What is the temperature range of a Type K thermocouple?

−200 to +1372 °C per IEC 60584-1. Continuous service in oxidising atmosphere is rated to 1100 °C; intermittent service to 1300 °C. In reducing or sulfurous atmospheres the upper limit drops to about 800 °C because of green-rot drift in the chromel leg.

What is the millivolt output of a Type K at 100 °C?

4.096 mV at 100 °C with a 0 °C cold-junction reference, per the IEC 60584-1 table. Sensitivity is approximately 41 µV/°C across the working range, so each 1 °C change moves the output 41 µV — easily resolvable by a 16-bit transmitter.

Why is my Type K reading negative when the process is hot?

Polarity is reversed at the terminal block. The Type K positive leg is yellow under ANSI MC96.1 (US) and green under IEC 60584-3 (Europe). Connecting the wrong leg to the positive input swings the reading symmetrically. Swap the leads and verify with a small magnet — the alumel (negative) leg is magnetic.

What is the difference between Type K and Type J thermocouples?

Type K is chromel/alumel, range −200 to +1372 °C, sensitivity 41 µV/°C, default for general industry. Type J is iron/constantan, range −210 to +1200 °C, sensitivity 52 µV/°C, but the iron leg oxidises rapidly above 540 °C and so is restricted to vacuum, reducing, or inert atmospheres.

Do I need extension wire matching the thermocouple type?

Yes. Use Type KX extension wire on Type K loops, JX on Type J, and so on. Copper extension wire introduces a parasitic junction at the terminal block; the reading is right at room temperature and wrong everywhere else. The KX wire has lower-grade alloys than KP/KN element wire but matches the Seebeck curve over 0–200 °C.

What is “green-rot” in a Type K thermocouple?

Selective oxidation of the chromium in the chromel (positive) leg above 800–1100 °C. The leg turns greenish, the Seebeck coefficient drops, and the reading drifts low. Use Type N (nicrosil/nisil) above 1100 °C continuous service or platinum-rhodium types (S/R/B) for atmospheres rich in chromium-attacking species.

Need a thermocouple, transmitter, or paperless recorder configured for your temperature range and accuracy class? Send the temperature range, atmosphere, output requirement, and certification target — our engineering team will quote within 24 hours.

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4-20 mA to 0-10 V Conversion: Resistor Formula, Wiring & Troubleshooting

Updated: April 21, 2026 | Sino-Inst Engineering Team

The cheapest way to convert a 4-20 mA loop signal into a voltage for a PLC or recorder analog input is a single precision resistor in parallel with the input. A 500 Ω resistor converts 4-20 mA to 2-10 V; a 250 Ω resistor converts 4-20 mA to 1-5 V; a 125 Ω resistor converts 4-20 mA to 0.5-2.5 V. The catch: a plain shunt resistor gives you a 2-10 V offset range, not a true 0-10 V, so when a datasheet says “0-10 V input” and your PLC card lists 0-10 V span, you need either an active signal converter or a scaling change in the PLC. This article walks through the formula, the wiring, when a resistor is enough, and when to buy a dedicated converter.

Contents

How Do You Convert 4-20 mA to 0-10 V with a Resistor?

Place a 500 Ω, 0.1% tolerance resistor across the analog input terminals of the PLC. The current loop flows through the resistor, and by Ohm’s law V = I × R, the voltage across the resistor is 2 V at 4 mA and 10 V at 20 mA. That produces a 2-10 V signal — which most modern PLCs accept on a 0-10 V input card and then rescale in software. If the PLC card strictly requires 0-10 V starting at zero, a resistor alone will not give you that; you need an active converter with offset adjustment. A sensor like the SI-300 pressure transducer with 4-20 mA and voltage outputs avoids the conversion step entirely by offering both signal types on the same part.

Pick a resistor with 0.1% tolerance or better and 1/4 W power rating. At 20 mA through 500 Ω, dissipation is 0.2 W — cutting it close for a 1/4 W part. Using a 1/2 W resistor leaves headroom for short-term overcurrent faults and keeps the resistor from drifting with self-heating.

What Is the Formula for 4-20 mA to Voltage Conversion?

The formula is Ohm’s law: R = V_full / I_full, where V_full is the desired voltage at 20 mA and I_full = 0.020 A. Pick the resistor value from this quick table:

Target Voltage RangeResistor ValueVoltage at 4 mAVoltage at 20 mAPower at 20 mA
2-10 V (equiv. 0-10 V)500 Ω2.0 V10.0 V0.20 W
1-5 V250 Ω1.0 V5.0 V0.10 W
0.5-2.5 V125 Ω0.5 V2.5 V0.05 W
0.4-2 V100 Ω0.4 V2.0 V0.04 W

The 4-20 mA standard was chosen so that 4 mA (the live zero) is measurably non-zero. When you do the resistor conversion, the live zero carries over: 4 mA × 500 Ω = 2 V. This is a feature, not a bug — it lets the receiving PLC distinguish between “sensor reading minimum” (2 V) and “broken wire” (0 V).

Why Does a 250 Ω Resistor Convert 4-20 mA to 1-5 V?

250 Ω is the industry convention because 1-5 V was the original HART-compatible voltage input range, and 250 Ω happens to match both the voltage conversion and the minimum impedance HART modems need to communicate on the loop. Plugging into Ohm’s law: V = 0.020 × 250 = 5 V at full scale; V = 0.004 × 250 = 1 V at live zero. The result is a clean 1-5 V span with live zero preserved.

Two practical notes: first, check the 4-20 mA source’s maximum loop resistance on its datasheet. Most modern HART pressure transmitters handle 250 Ω plus wiring and a PLC barrier without issue, but long cable runs or multiple drops eat into that budget. Second, if you add a 250 Ω resistor to a loop that already has a PLC internal shunt, the resulting parallel resistance is much lower and the voltage drop is wrong. Always remove any existing shunt before inserting a precision resistor.

When Should You Use a Signal Converter Instead of a Resistor?

A smart differential pressure transmitter and a basic analog transmitter behave the same way on the electrical side — both produce a 4-20 mA current and both work with a precision shunt. What changes is when you should invest in an active converter. Use one of these in these four situations:

  • You need a true 0-10 V span, not 2-10 V. An active converter scales and offsets the output, so 4 mA = 0 V exactly and 20 mA = 10 V exactly.
  • You need galvanic isolation between the sensor loop and the PLC. A resistor provides no isolation; a converter with 1500 V isolation protects the PLC from ground loops and surge events.
  • You need a high-impedance output for a long voltage cable run. A resistor-derived voltage has the same source impedance as the resistor (e.g. 500 Ω), which picks up noise on long runs. An active converter outputs a low-impedance voltage.
  • The loop has multiple devices on it. Each added shunt drops more voltage and eats into the compliance voltage of the 4-20 mA source. A converter that loops through without consuming loop voltage preserves the budget.

For single-sensor short-run applications with a PLC that accepts 2-10 V (or can be rescaled in software), a resistor is fine and saves the cost of a converter. For anything beyond that — multi-drop, long runs, isolation-required, or true 0-10 V needed — buy the converter.

How Do You Wire a 4-20 mA Sensor to a 0-10 V PLC Input?

Two wiring patterns cover almost all cases. The simple resistor drop method:

  1. Confirm the 4-20 mA source type. Two-wire (loop-powered) sensors get their 24 V DC from the same two wires that carry the signal. Three-wire sensors have separate supply and signal.
  2. Bring the 24 V supply positive to the transmitter +. Connect the transmitter signal output to the PLC analog input positive (+).
  3. Connect the PLC analog input negative (-) back to the 24 V supply negative. This completes the loop.
  4. Install the precision resistor across the PLC analog input terminals (+ and -). 500 Ω for 0-10 V card, 250 Ω for 0-5 V card.
  5. Check polarity with a multimeter in series before energizing. Current should flow from 24 V+ through the transmitter, into PLC+, through the resistor, out PLC- and back to 24 V-.

For troubleshooting a finished loop, measure voltage across the resistor with a handheld DMM. A stable reading between 2 V and 10 V means the loop is healthy; 0 V means open circuit (broken wire, loose terminal); above 10 V means the 20 mA limit has been exceeded or the resistor is open.

What Are the Common Mistakes in 4-20 mA Voltage Conversion?

Three mistakes account for most failed installations:

  • Forgetting to scale 2-10 V back to 0-100% in the PLC. After the resistor, the input reads 20% at minimum, not 0%. Update the PLC analog scaling so 2 V = 0% and 10 V = 100%.
  • Using a low-tolerance resistor. A 5% resistor contributes 5% of full scale to the error budget — more than the transmitter itself. Use 0.1% metal-film or wire-wound resistors.
  • Exceeding the loop compliance voltage. A 24 V supply with 500 Ω shunt and 200 Ω wiring leaves only ~14 V of compliance for the transmitter. A HART transmitter needs 10-12 V minimum at its terminals; anything less causes the loop to drop out under noise.

Check the loop budget before ordering parts: add the source voltage drop, wiring resistance, precision shunt resistance, and any barrier or protector resistance. Subtract that total voltage drop at 20 mA from the supply voltage. The remainder is what the transmitter sees. Many pressure transducer output signal types specify minimum and maximum loop resistance on the datasheet — respect those limits.

Related Products

SMT3151 Gauge Pressure Transmitter

Loop-powered 4-20 mA + HART output, typical source for converter projects, ±0.075% accuracy, 24 V DC, 250 Ω min. load.

R7100 Universal Input Recorder

Accepts 4-20 mA and 0-10 V on the same channel, removes the need for an external converter, logs to SD card over Ethernet.

R7600 Paperless Recorder

Multi-channel paperless recorder with RTD, TC, 4-20 mA, and 0-10 V inputs — ideal for mixed-signal process monitoring.

FAQ

Can I use a 500 Ω resistor to get a full 0-10 V signal?

A 500 Ω shunt converts 4-20 mA to 2-10 V, not 0-10 V. The 2 V offset is the “live zero” of the 4-20 mA standard. Either rescale in the PLC software or use an active converter with zero offset.

What resistor value converts 4-20 mA to 1-5 V?

250 Ω, 0.1% tolerance. This is the standard HART-compatible voltage span.

Do I need galvanic isolation when converting 4-20 mA to voltage?

Required for long sensor cables, multi-rack installations, or hazardous-area boundaries. Not required for a single sensor on a short cable feeding one PLC within the same cabinet.

Will adding a 500 Ω resistor damage my 4-20 mA transmitter?

No, as long as the total loop resistance stays within the transmitter’s compliance voltage. Most loop-powered transmitters with a 24 V supply handle up to 650 Ω total loop resistance. Above that, the loop starts to saturate and the 20 mA output drops below specification.

How do I check a 4-20 mA to voltage conversion is working?

Measure voltage across the shunt resistor with a handheld DMM. At known 4 mA calibration input, expect the minimum voltage (2 V for 500 Ω shunt). At 20 mA, expect full scale (10 V). Values outside that range point to a bad resistor, open wiring, or a misfiring source.

Need a transmitter or recorder that fits directly into your existing signal scheme? Tell us the PLC model, input card range, and loop topology — we’ll match the right instrument on the first try.

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Natural Gas Pipeline Monitoring: Pressure-Temperature-Flow

As a clean energy, natural gas is widely used in many aspects such as industrial production, thermal power generation and residential gas heating.

Although natural gas pipeline transportation has many advantages, there are also risks such as leakage and failure. This can lead to interruptions or leaks in the delivery, causing significant financial losses and further safety risks. Therefore, sensors and data acquisition equipment are used for monitoring to achieve the purpose of leakage prevention and failure prevention. At the same time, risk issues such as distributed gas quality and consumption balance are monitored.

In the entire gas pipeline monitoring system, the detection of pressure-temperature-flow ensures operation, thereby preventing gas interruption.

Natural Gas Pipeline Pressure Measurement

In the oil and gas sector, pressure sensors are fundamental components for a wide range of applications. The pressure sensor can be used to monitor the pipeline pressure in real time. Not only that, the pressure sensor is also used in the gas furnace to measure the pressure of the gas in the gas supply pipeline, so as to judge whether the gas is sufficient or whether it is leaking.

  • Pressure transmitters play an important role in moving natural gas through thousands of natural gas pipelines. For monitoring natural gas pressure, measuring very low inlet and outlet pressures;
  • Various pressure types are also involved in the measurement process. Such as gauge pressure, absolute pressure, differential pressure, high pressure and differential pressure, etc.;
  • Special approval options such as ATEX Intrinsic Safety are available where natural gas may be present in the local atmosphere;
  • Leaks and even explosions may occur if the gas pressure in gas and gas pipelines is too high;
  • If the air pressure is too low, it will affect people’s daily use. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor the air pressure of each node through the pressure sensor, so that the air pressure is within a reasonable range;
  • The gas pipeline pressure sensor generally adopts the threaded installation form, which is simple and convenient and easy to ensure the sealing of the product. The signal output of the gas pipeline pressure sensor has analog signal and digital signal, which belong to the remote transmission type signal.

Sino-Inst’s pressure transmitter can be matched with industrial control system PLC or configuration system to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the automation system. The most important thing to choose a gas pipeline pressure sensor is to consider the quality of the product. The Sino-Inst gas pipeline pressure sensor is made of a corrosion-resistant pressure core and a stainless steel outer protective shell thread to ensure the durability of the product. The signal expansion transmitter also uses imported electronic components to ensure the stability of the gas pipeline pressure sensor.

Regardless of oil drilling, extraction, or transportation, there are various challenges and difficulties in the application of pressure sensors in the oil and gas industry. For example, key issues such as cost control, safe construction and environmental protection. Our engineers have rich practical experience in this industry, can fully understand the problems and difficulties you actually encounter in the oil and gas industry, and provide you with pressure measurement solutions based on your needs, combined with our own technology.

Featured Natural Gas Pressure Transmitters

Monitoring of Natural Gas Pipeline Temperature

General-purpose temperature transmitter, suitable for temperature measurement of gas or liquid, such as air, natural gas, steam, water or engine oil and other non-corrosive media. At the same time, a variety of analog and digital signal outputs are available for selection. It is convenient for users to form a measurement and control system with other equipment.

The temperature transmitter is based on a standardized Pt100 or Pt1000 temperature sensing element, providing customers with accurate and stable temperature measurement. The product is cost-effective and can meet various application requirements. It is an ideal product for temperature measurement.

In addition to gas pressure detection, we also provide Industrial Gas Measurement with Digital Gas Mass Flow Meters.

Featured Temperature Transmitters

Natural Gas Pipeline Flow Monitoring

The flow measurement of natural gas is currently mainly used in trade settlement and is relatively common. my country’s natural gas trade measurement is based on the volume or energy method under the legally required quality indicators for transfer measurement. At this stage, volume measurement is basically the main method.

At present, the flowmeter products used for natural gas flow measurement generally include: gas waist wheel flowmeter, gas turbine flowmeter, precession vortex flowmeter, vortex flowmeter, ultrasonic flowmeter and orifice flowmeter.

Let’s make a simple comparison on the use of these flow meters.

Natural Gas Flow Meter Types

Featured Natural Gas Flow Meters

More Gas Measurement Solution

In the entire gas pipeline monitoring system, the detection of pressure-temperature-flow is to ensure correct operation, thereby preventing gas interruption.

For the above characteristics, Sino-Inst provides high precision, good stability, low power consumption, easy to connect and supports customized pressure sensors, temperature sensors, flow meters, etc. Provide reliable pressure, temperature and flow monitoring support for gas pipeline monitoring.

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RTD vs. Thermocouple: What’s the Difference, and Which Should You Use?

What is the difference between a resistance temperature detector (RTD) and a thermocouple? Both RTDs and thermocouples are sensors used to measure heat such as Fahrenheit and Kelvin. These devices are used in a wide range of applications and settings, often presenting people with the dilemma of choosing between RTDs or thermocouples. Each temperature sensor has its own advantages and disadvantages that make it suitable for certain conditions and environments.

What is RTD?

RTDs are made of metal wires, usually copper or platinum, that offer resistance to the flow of electricity. The RTD’s resistance changes when its temperature changes, allowing it to be used as a gauge for measuring heat. RTDs are considered to be more accurate than thermocouples as they have a linear relationship between resistance and temperature. RTDs are also less affected by electromagnetic fields than thermocouples.

RTD Working Principle

The full English name of RTD is “Resistance Temperature Detector”, so to be precise, it should be translated as “Resistance Temperature Detector”.

RTD is a special kind of resistor whose resistance value increases as the temperature increases and decreases as the temperature decreases. In industry, this feature is used for temperature measurement, so RTD is also commonly known as “thermal resistance”.

Not all metals are suitable for making RTDs. Materials that meet this characteristic need to meet the following requirements:

  • The resistance value of the metal has a linear relationship with the temperature change energy;
  • The metal is more sensitive to temperature changes, that is, the resistance change (temperature coefficient) caused by unit temperature changes is relatively large;
  • The metal can resist fatigue caused by temperature changes and has good durability;

There are not many metals that meet this requirement. Common RTD materials are: platinum (Pt), nickel (Ni), and copper (Cu).

Take platinum thermal resistance as an example. According to the different resistance values, it can be divided into Pt50, Pt100, Pt200, Pt500 and Pt1000.

The numerical value in the name indicates the resistance value of the thermal resistance at 0°C.

For example: Pt100, indicating that the resistance value of the sensor at 0°C is 100Ω.
And Pt1000, it means that the resistance value of the sensor at 0 ℃ is 1000Ω.
The resistance value of RTD thermal resistance at different temperatures can be approximated by the formula: R=R0(1+αT).

in:
1) R0 represents the resistance value of RTD at 0℃;
2) a is called the temperature coefficient, which represents the change value of the resistance at unit temperature;
3) T represents the measurement temperature, the unit is °C;

According to the number of lead wires of RTD thermal resistance, RTD can be divided into two-wire, three-wire and four-wire.

The lead of the two-wire RTD is to directly lead out two wires at both ends of the resistor to the temperature measurement module. The temperature measurement module adopts the principle of bridge balance, and RTD is used as one arm of the bridge to measure.

A three-wire RTD can largely eliminate the influence of the sensor leads themselves on the measurement results. The detection accuracy is greatly improved compared to the two-wire system.

Resistance Temperature Detector advantages

No compensation line is required, and the price is cheap;
It can transmit electrical signals over long distances;
High sensitivity and strong stability;
Good interchangeability and high precision.

Disadvantages of thermal resistance:

Although thermal resistance is widely used in industry. But it requires power excitation.
Temperature changes cannot be measured instantaneously.
The temperature measurement range is limited and the application is limited.

What is Thermocouple?

Thermocouples, on the other hand, are made of two different types of metals that are joined together at the sensor end. The junction between these two metals produces a voltage that is proportional to the temperature difference between the junction and the measuring point. Thermocouples are less expensive than RTDs and can measure a wider range of temperatures. They are also faster at responding to changes in temperature.

Thermocouple Working Principle

A thermocouple is a temperature sensing element. It converts the temperature signal into a thermoelectromotive force signal and converts it into the temperature of the measured medium through an electrical instrument.

The basic principle of thermocouple temperature measurement is that two homogeneous conductors of different compositions form a closed loop. When there is a temperature gradient at both ends, a current will flow through the loop. At this time, there is a seebeck electromotive force – thermal electromotive force between the two ends. This is called the Seebeck effect.

The two homogeneous conductors with different compositions are the hot electrodes, and the end with the higher temperature is the working end. The end with the lower temperature is the free end. The free end is usually at some constant temperature.

According to the functional relationship between thermoelectromotive force and temperature, a thermocouple indexing table is made. The index table is obtained under the condition that the free end temperature is at 0°C. Different thermocouples have different scales.

When a third metal material is inserted into the thermocouple loop. As long as the temperature of both junctions of the material is the same. The thermoelectric potential generated by the thermocouple will remain constant. That is, it is not affected by the access of the third metal into the loop.

Therefore, when measuring the temperature of the thermocouple, the measuring instrument can be connected. After measuring the thermoelectromotive force, the temperature of the measured medium can be known.

Thermocouple Advantages:

  1. High measurement accuracy: The thermocouple is in direct contact with the measured object and is not affected by the intermediate medium.
  2. Fast thermal response time: Thermocouples are sensitive to temperature changes.
  3. Large measurement range: thermocouples can measure temperature continuously from -40 to +1600 °C.
  4. Reliable performance and good mechanical strength.
  5. Long service life and easy installation.

Types and structures of thermocouples

Types of thermocouples Thermocouples include k type (nickel-chromium-nickel-silicon), n-type (nickel-chromium-silicon-nickel-silicon-magnesium), e-type (nickel-chromium-copper-nickel), j-type (iron-copper-nickel) , t-type (copper-copper-nickel), s-type (platinum-rhodium 10-platinum), r-type (platinum-rhodium 13-platinum), b-type (platinum-rhodium 30-platinum-rhodium 6) and so on.

Structural form of thermocouple: The basic structure of a thermocouple is a thermal electrode, an insulating material and a protective tube. Display instrument, recording instrument or computer and other supporting use. In field use, thermocouples suitable for various environments are developed according to various factors such as the environment and the measured medium.

Frequently
Asked
Questions

RTD stands for Resistance Temperature Detector, but is also known as PRT (Platinum Resistance Thermometer).

A platinum resistance thermometer (PRT) is an RTD that uses platinum as the sensing element. The most common PRTs are Pt100, Pt500 and Pt1000. (PRT is just a more specific name for RTD)

The first step in identifying an RTD is to find out how many lines it has (2, 3 or 4).
Then you can connect the RTD to the multimeter.
If it’s a pt100, it should read between 107-110Ω at room temperature.
But if it’s a pt1000. You should get a reading of 1007 – 1100Ω. This confirms it’s a Pt1000.

PLEASE NOTE: These readings are standard for new RTD sensors. If the sensor is damaged or used continuously. The readings may vary.

The international standard IEC 60751:2008 defines the resistance versus temperature characteristics of RTDs. Within this standard, in order to provide good interchangeability, there are standards of accuracy. Class A and Class B are two accuracy standards. We provide a tolerance reference table.

We get asked this question a lot, but Pt100s and Pt1000s are two types of RTDs (Pt500s are another type of RTD, but now obsolete).

RTDs use cables because they detect temperature by calculating resistance changes in the material. So you can simply order RTDs with long leads or buy additional cables to expand on your own.

When choosing an RTD, the following factors must be considered:

  • What temperature are you measuring (surface or immersion in solid, liquid or gas)?
  • If a fast response time is a must, see the RTD Technology page for various factors in selecting a response time.
  • Fits the specific dimensions required for your application, such as probe diameter, probe length, compression fittings, required connector types, etc.
  • Do you need special sheath materials?
  • Do you need to calibrate the sensor?
  • Does the sensor need to be resistant to chemicals/abrasion/vibration or any other environmental factors?
  • Is there high electromotive force (electromagnetic interference) in power switching, rectification or radio waves?
  • Any other installation considerations? (eg sensor needs to be bent to form before installation)
  • Distance between sensing area and instrument
  • Sensing ambient temperature over sensor length
  • Connection Preferences
  • Current wiring configurations such as 4-wire sensors will not be compatible with 3-wire configurations.

As a rule of thumb, RTDs should be immersed 4 times the length of the element. (Flat-film elements are typically 2-3mm, while wire-wound elements are about 15mm or more).

We are often asked this question, but Pt100 thermocouples do not exist. A thermocouple is a type of sensor, and a Pt100 is a type of RTD, another type of sensor.

A Pt200 sensor is an RTD, Pt200s have a resistance of 200 ohms (Ω) at 0ºC. The Pt200 sensor is now obsolete and has been replaced by the Pt100 and Pt1000 sensors. The Pt500 sensor is also an outdated RTD.

A Pt500 sensor is an RTD, Pt500s have a resistance of 500 ohms (Ω) at 0ºC. The Pt500 sensor is now obsolete and has been replaced by the Pt100 and Pt1000 sensors. The Pt200 sensor is also an outdated RTD.

Conclusions, which one should you use?

It really depends on the specific application and what is more important: accuracy or speed. If you need to measure very high or very low temperatures, a thermocouple is the better choice. If you need more accuracy, then an RTD is the way to go.

Read more about: What Is 0-10V Signal Output?

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Sino-Inst is Manufacturer of RTD & Thermocouples for temperature measurement. We supply more than 20 kinds of RTD & Thermocouples. 40% RTD, 60% Thermocouples.

RTD & Thermocouples for diesel fuel measurement are mainly used for temperature measurement of various meadium.

RTD & Thermocouples enable stable temperature measurement. This greatly meets the measurement needs of many applications.

Sino-Inst’s RTD & Thermocouples for temperature measurement, made in China. Having good Quality, With better price. Our temperature measurement instruments are widely used in China, India, Pakistan, the US, and other countries.

The entire team at Sino-Inst’s has received excellent training, so we can ensure that every client’s needs are met. For assistance with your product requirements, whether it’s a RTD & Thermocouples for temperature measurement, flow sensor, or other device, give us a call.

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Standard Platinum Rhodium Thermocouple

Standard Platinum Rhodium Thermocouple-Platinum Thermocouple

Standard Platinum Rhodium Thermocouple is a temperature measurement standard device produced by our company. There are two types of standard platinum-rhodium 10-platinum thermocouple and standard platinum-rhodium 30-platinum rhodium 6 thermocouple.


First-class standard thermocouple WRPB-1


Second-class standard platinum rhodium 30-platinum rhodium 6 thermocouple


Second-class standard thermocouple WRPB-2

The standard platinum rhodium 10-platinum thermocouple is used to realize the thermocouple temperature measurement value transfer and precise temperature measurement in the temperature range of 419.527~1084.62 ℃. The accuracy grades are first-class and second-class standards.

The standard platinum rhodium 30-platinum rhodium 6 thermocouple is used for the value transfer and precision temperature measurement of the current thermocouple in the temperature range of 1100~1500℃. The accuracy grade has the second-class standard.

First-Class Standard Thermocouple WRPB-1

The first-class standard thermocouple is also called the first-class standard platinum rhodium 10-platinum thermocouple. The first-class standard thermocouple is used to verify the second-class standard thermocouple. The first-class standard platinum-rhodium 10-platinum thermocouple verifies the second-class standard platinum-rhodium 10-platinum thermocouple.

The first-class standard thermocouple WRPB-1 is one of the world’s first-class temperature measurement standard devices.

Standard thermocouples are divided into first-class standard thermocouples and second-class standard thermocouples.

The standard thermocouple is of higher precision in the thermocouple series and has good physical and chemical properties. Good oxidation resistance at high temperatures. Thermocouple with good stability and reproducibility of term electromotive force.

  1. Model: WRPB-1
  2. First-class standard thermocouple length: L=Φ0.5×1000mm
  3. The temperature range of the first-class standard thermocouple: 300-1300℃
  4. First-class standard thermocouple indexing number: S type (platinum rhodium 10-platinum)
  5. First-class standard thermocouple electric potential value requirements:
    The measuring end of the standard thermocouple (WRPB-1) is at the copper point (1084.62℃) or the antimony point (630.63℃) and the zinc point (419.527℃).
    When the reference junction temperature is 0℃, its thermoelectric potential should meet the following requirements:
    E(tCu)=10.575±0.015mv
    E(tAl)=5.860+0.37[E(tCu)-10.575]±0.005mV
    E(tAsb)=5.553+0.37[E(tCu)-10.575] ±0.005mV
    E(tZn)=3.447+0.18[E(tCu)-10.575] ±0.005 mV  
  6. The stability of the first-class standard platinum-rhodium 10-platinum thermocouple is determined by the difference between the two thermoelectric potentials and does not exceed 3uV. The annual variation of the thermoelectric potential of the copper point of WRPB-1 does not exceed 5uV.

The first-class standard platinum-rhodium 10-platinum thermocouple has a platinum-rhodium wire for the anode and a platinum wire for the anode. A double-hole insulated porcelain tube with a length of 550 mm is sheathed on it.
Refer to the positive terminal to cover the red or pink plastic tube; the negative terminal to cover the white or blue plastic tube.
The whole product is stored in an ordinary glass outer tube.

How to use first-class standard thermocouple

Before using WRPB-1, check whether the thermocouple number is consistent with the product number on the verification certificate.

When in use, take the standard couple out of the glass outer protective tube and put it into the quartz outer protective tube to measure. After use, put it back into the glass outer protective tube for storage.

When using the standard coupler WRPB-1 to verify the standard coupler WRPB-2. The reference terminal of the standard coupler and the thermocouple under test should be at 0℃. The specific method steps are carried out in accordance with the “Standard Platinum Rhodium 10-Platinum Thermocouple Verification Regulations” (JJG75-1995) approved and issued by the National Quality and Technical Supervision Bureau.

When a standard couple is used for precise temperature measurement, the temperature t is determined by the following formula: (omitted here). When measuring the temperature, you should first prepare the corresponding E(t)-t comparison table according to the approximate temperature range of the thermocouple. Then according to the thermoelectric potential value measured by the thermocouple, the temperature t can be obtained according to the comparison table compiled above. The temperature interval of the comparison table is set by the user. If the accuracy requirement is not too high, a comparison table of the entire Baidu interval can be compiled.

Precautions for the use of first-class standard thermocouples

  1. When using and storing, the porcelain tube and plastic tube on the standard thermocouple shall not be arbitrarily removed. Try to keep the standard flat and straight. The WRPB-1 thermocouple shall not be severely bent. Quartz outer protective tube should be added. During transportation and storage , The standard thermocouple WRPB-1 should be avoided from being subjected to severe mechanical shock.
  2. According to “Standard Platinum Rhodium 10-Platinum Thermocouple Verification Regulations” (JJG75-1995), regular supervisory inspection and periodic verification shall be carried out.
  3. Please keep the verification certificate attached to the Sino-Inst product when it leaves the factory. You must bring the original verification certificate with you during the next verification.

Due to the frequent changes in precious metal prices recently, our company’s production costs have changed accordingly. For the price of WRPB-1 first-class standard thermocouples, please contact Sino-Inst sales engineers directly.

Second-Class Standard Thermocouple WRPB-2

Second-class standard thermocouples are used for thermocouples and precision temperature measurement in the temperature range of 300-1300℃. The second-class standard thermocouple needs to be verified with the first-class standard thermocouple of the next higher grade.

The second-class standard thermocouple is the standard instrument for verifying industrial thermocouples. Sino-Inst is the leading manufacturer of domestic standard thermocouples. For 20 years, it has provided high-quality, high-stability second-class standard platinum-rhodium 10-platinum thermocouples to various industries . The second-class standard thermocouple model of our factory is WRPB-2, which has a good reputation for quality. Buying second-class standard thermocouples from standard thermocouple manufacturers will get technical support and products with lower prices.

  1. Second-class standard thermocouple model: WRPB-2
  2. The temperature measurement range of the second-class standard thermocouple: 300-1300℃
  3. The length of the second-class standard thermocouple: L=1000mm (the diameter of the coupler wire is Φ0.5mm)
  4. Indexing number: S type (platinum rhodium 10-platinum)
  5. Second-class standard thermocouple electric potential value requirements:
    • A. The second-class standard thermocouple (the second-class standard platinum rhodium 10-platinum thermocouple) is at the copper point (1084.62℃), aluminum point (660.323℃) or antimony point (630.63℃) and zinc point (419.527℃). When the reference junction temperature is 0℃, its thermoelectric potential should meet the following requirements:
      E(tCu)=(10.575±0.015)mv
      E(tAl)=5.860+0.37[E(tCu)-10.575]±0.005mV
      E(tAsb)=5.553+0.37[E(tCu)-10.575] ±0.005mV
      E(tZn)=3.447+0.18[E(tCu)-10.575] ±0.005 mV
    • B. The stability of the second-class standard thermocouple is determined by the change of the electromotive force of its copper point (the difference between the two thermoelectric potentials). The newly manufactured second-class standard thermocouple does not exceed 5μV, and the second-class standard thermocouple in use is of The annual change does not exceed 10μV.
    • C. For the frequently used second-class standard thermocouple (second-class standard platinum rhodium 10-platinum thermocouple), in order to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the value, the necessary supervisory verification should be carried out according to the use situation. The second-class standard thermocouple supervisory verification is based on the first-class standard thermocouple (first-class standard platinum rhodium 10-platinum thermocouple) or the infrequently used second-class standard thermocouple as the standard device, and its qualification is determined by the copper point. The difference between the measured thermoelectric potential and the thermoelectric potential given by the metrological verification certificate is determined (the difference is not more than 7μV).
    • D. The standard thermocouple certified by the third-party metrological verification agency authorized by the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine of the People’s Republic of China in compliance with “JJG75-1995 “Standard Platinum Rhodium 10-Platinum Thermocouple” National Metrological Verification Regulations” will be issued a verification certificate. The effective digits of the second-class standard thermocouple thermoelectromotive force value given in the metrological verification certificate are 3 digits after the decimal point (see the following certificate data for details).
    • E. The verification period of the second-class standard hot platinum rhodium 10-platinum galvanic couple is one year. The product needs to be sent to a legal metrological verification agency for verification before the expiration of the metrological verification certificate to avoid delay in use.

The second-class standard thermocouple (second-class standard platinum-rhodium 10-platinum thermocouple) positive electrode is platinum rhodium 10 wire. The negative electrode is platinum wire. It is sheathed with a double-hole insulated porcelain tube with a length of 550 mm.
Reference end positive sleeve red or pink plastic tube. Negative sleeve white or blue plastic tube.
The whole product is stored in a glass outer tube.

How to use the second-class standard thermocouple

  1. Before use, check whether the second-class standard couple number is consistent with the product number on the verification certificate. The product and the measurement verification certificate are one-to-one correspondence. The product number is inconsistent with the thermocouple number on the certificate. It means that the certificate is not the thermocouple Even the certificate of metrological verification.
  2. When the product leaves the factory, there is a quartz tube (approximately 550mm long) and a common glass tube in the container. When using, take the second-class standard couple out of the glass tube and put it into the quartz outer protective tube for measurement. After use, put the second-class standard hot platinum rhodium 10-platinum galvanic couple back into the glass outer protective tube for storage.
  3. When using the second-class standard thermocouple WRPB-2 to verify the working thermocouple. The reference end of the second-class standard couple and the thermocouple under test should be at 0°C. The specific methods and steps are carried out in accordance with the verification regulations of “JJG75-95 Standard Platinum Rhodium 10-Platinum Thermocouple” approved and issued by the Quality and Technical Supervision Bureau. 
  4. When the second-class standard couple is used for precise temperature measurement, the temperature t is calculated according to the “standard thermocouple thermoelectromotive force-temperature conversion method” in the metrological verification regulations. When measuring the temperature, the second-class thermocouple should be roughly used according to the temperature range . Compile the corresponding E(t)-t comparison table. Then according to the thermoelectric potential value measured by the thermocouple, the temperature t can be obtained according to the comparison table prepared above. The temperature interval of the comparison table is set by the user. If the accuracy requirement is low, a comparison table of the entire Baidu interval can be compiled.

Precautions for the use of second-class standard thermocouples

  1. When using and storing the second-class standard thermocouple (the second-class standard platinum rhodium 10-platinum thermocouple). The porcelain tube and plastic tube on the second-class standard thermocouple shall not be arbitrarily removed. Try to keep the standard straight. Do not use The thermocouple is severely bent. Quartz outer protective tube should be added. During transportation and storage, avoid the standard second-class standard platinum rhodium 10-platinum thermocouple WRPB-2 from being subjected to severe mechanical shock.
  2. According to the verification regulations of “JJG75-95 Standard Platinum Rhodium 10-Platinum Thermocouple”, the second-class thermocouple shall be regularly inspected and periodically verified.
  3. Please keep the verification certificate attached to the second-class standard thermocouple when leaving the factory. The user must bring the original verification certificate for the next verification. If there is no certificate, it will not be used as a second-class standard thermocouple.

At present, the price of precious metals changes frequently. Sino-Inst produces standard thermocouples using precious metal wires. The cost varies with market prices. For the price of WRPB-2 second-class standard couples, please contact our sales engineers directly.

Second-Class Standard Platinum Rhodium 30-Platinum Rhodium 6 Thermocouple

The second-class standard platinum rhodium 30-platinum rhodium 6 thermocouple is a standard instrument for temperature value transfer in the temperature range of 1100-1500℃. It is usually used to verify industrial platinum and rhodium thermocouples. It is also used for the measurement range of 1100-1500℃. Precision measurement.

  1. The first-class standard platinum rhodium 30-platinum rhodium 6 thermocouple and the second-class standard platinum rhodium 30-platinum rhodium 6 thermocouple are produced with high-purity standard thermocouple wire. Its positive electrode (BP) is platinum containing 30% rhodium Rhodium alloy. The negative electrode (BN) is a platinum-rhodium alloy containing 6% rhodium.
  2. The wire diameter of the standard platinum rhodium 30-platinum rhodium 6 thermocouple (referred to as the standard double platinum rhodium thermocouple) is 0.5mm and the length is 1000mm.
  3. When the second-class standard platinum rhodium 30-platinum rhodium 6 thermocouple temperature at the measuring end is 1100°C and 1500°C, and the reference end temperature is 0°C, its thermoelectromotive force should be:
    E(1100)=(5.780±0.025)mV
    E(1500)=(10.099±0.040)mV
  4. The stability of the standard double platinum and rhodium thermocouple. Platinum and rhodium are determined by its thermoelectromotive force change at 1500℃: the first-class standard platinum-rhodium 30-platinum rhodium 6 thermocouple is not greater than 6μV. The second-class standard platinum rhodium 30-platinum The rhodium 6 thermocouple is not more than 8μV.
  5. The measuring end of the standard double platinum and rhodium thermocouple is sleeved with a double-hole 550mm high-purity alumina tube. The reference end is a pink plastic tube for the positive electrode and a white plastic tube for the negative electrode.
  6. The second-class standard platinum rhodium 30-platinum rhodium 6 thermocouple has no protective tube when it leaves the factory. When not in use, it is placed horizontally in a clean glass tube in a special container. It is stored under stress-free conditions.

Reference end positive sleeve red or pink plastic tube. Negative sleeve At present, the price of precious metals changes frequently. Sino-Inst produces standard thermocouples using precious metal wires. The cost varies with market prices. For the price of WRPB-2 second-class standard couples, please contact our sales engineers directly.

Frequently
Asked
Questions

Platinum and its alloys will withstand more adverse conditions than base metal thermocouples. But they still have their limitations. The melting point of platinum is 1769°C, and the melting point of the highest melting point of rhodium alloy used for thermocouple applications is about 1890°C.

Platinum is not equal to a thermocouple. Platinum is a material that can be used to make thermocouples.

In theory, any two different conductors (or semiconductors) can be made into thermocouples. But as a practical temperature measuring element, there are many requirements for it. In order to ensure the reliability in engineering technology and sufficient measurement accuracy. Not all materials can make up a thermocouple. Generally, the basic requirements for the electrode materials of thermocouples are:

  1. In the temperature measurement range, the thermoelectric properties are stable, do not change with time, have sufficient physical and chemical stability, and are not easy to be oxidized or corroded;
  2. The temperature coefficient of resistance is small, the conductivity is high, and the specific heat is small;
  3. The thermoelectric potential generated in temperature measurement should be large, and the relationship between thermoelectric potential and temperature is linear or close to linear single value function;
  4. The material has good reproducibility, high mechanical strength, simple manufacturing process and low price.

Platinum rhodium thermocouple is also called a high-temperature precious metal thermocouple. Platinum rhodium has single platinum rhodium (platinum rhodium 10-platinum rhodium) and double platinum rhodium (platinum rhodium 30-platinum rhodium 6). As temperature measurement sensors, they are usually used in conjunction with temperature transmitters, regulators, and display instruments. A process control system is formed to directly measure or control the temperature of fluids, steam and gaseous media, and solid surfaces in the range of 0-1700°C during various production processes.

Extended reading: RTD vs. Thermocouple: What’s the Difference, and Which Should You Use?

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RTD vs Thermocouple

RTD vs Thermocouple- What is the difference? What are they used for?

Both RTDs and thermocouples are sensors used to measure heat such as Fahrenheit and Kelvin. Both thermocouple and thermal resistance belong to contact temperature measurement in temperature measurement. Although its role is to measure the temperature of the object the same. But their working principles and characteristics are different. Thermocouple is the most widely used temperature device in temperature measurement. Thermal resistance does not require compensation wires and is cheaper than thermocouples.

As two major contact temperature sensors: thermocouple and thermal resistance. Their names differ by only one word and both can be used as sensors for measuring object temperature.

The choice of thermocouple or thermal resistance should be judged according to the measured object environment. Many people are not sure what to choose. Therefore, it is necessary to fully understand the difference between thermal resistance and thermocouple temperature sensor when choosing a temperature sensor.

RTDs stands for ‘Resistance Temperature Detectors’

Thermal resistance: no compensation wire is needed, the price is cheaper

The principle of temperature measurement of thermal resistance: based on the characteristics of the resistance of conductors or semiconductors that change with temperature.

Thermal resistance is one of the most commonly used temperature detectors in medium and low-temperature areas. The thermal resistance temperature measurement is based on the characteristic that the resistance value of the metal conductor increases with the increase in temperature for temperature measurement.

The advantage of thermal resistance: It can also transmit electrical signals remotely. High sensitivity and strong stability. Interchangeability and accuracy are better. However, power supply excitation is required. The temperature change cannot be measured instantaneously.

Disadvantages of thermal resistance: Although thermal resistance is widely used in industry. But because of his temperature measurement range, his application has been limited.

Industrial thermal resistance generally uses Pt100, Pt10, Cu50, Cu100, the temperature range of platinum thermal resistance is generally minus 200-800 degrees Celsius, and copper thermal resistance is minus 40 to 140 degrees Celsius.

Thermal resistors are mostly made of pure metal materials. At present, platinum and copper are the most widely used. In addition, materials such as nickel, manganese, and rhodium have now been used to make thermal resistors.

Thermal resistance does not require compensation wires and is cheaper than thermocouples.

Thermocouple: can transmit 4-20mA electrical signal far away

Thermocouple temperature measurement principle:

The principle of thermocouple temperature measurement is based on the thermoelectric effect. Connect two different conductors or semiconductors into a closed loop. When the temperature at the two junctions is different. The thermoelectric potential will be generated in the loop. This phenomenon is called the thermoelectric effect, also known as the Seebeck effect.

The thermoelectric potential generated in the closed-loop is composed of two kinds of electric potential. Thermoelectric potential and contact potential.

Thermoelectric potential refers to the electric potential generated by the temperature difference between the two ends of the same conductor.

Different conductors have different electron densities, so they generate different electric potentials.

The contact potential, as the name implies, refers to when two different conductors are in contact. Because their electron densities are different, a certain amount of electron diffusion occurs. The electric potential formed when they reach a certain equilibrium. The magnitude of the contact potential depends on the material properties of the two different conductors and the temperature of their contact points.

The advantages of thermocouples:
Wide temperature measurement range. The performance is relatively stable. At the same time, the structure is simple. The dynamic response is good. It can transmit 4-20mA electrical signals remotely. It is convenient for automatic control and centralized control.

Thermocouples currently used internationally have a standard specification. Internationally, thermocouples are divided into eight different divisions, namely B, R, S, K, N, E, J, and T. The lowest temperature can be measured at minus 270 degrees Celsius and the highest can reach 1800 degrees Celsius.

Among them, B, R, and S belong to the platinum series of thermocouples. Because platinum is a precious metal. So they are also called precious metal thermocouples and the remaining ones are called cheap metal thermocouples.

There are two types of thermocouples, common type, and armored type.

Ordinary thermocouples are generally composed of hot electrodes, insulating tubes, protective sleeves, and junction boxes. The armored thermocouple is a combination of thermocouple wire, insulating material, and a metal protective sleeve. A solid combination is formed by stretching.

But the electrical signal of the thermocouple needs a special wire to transmit, this kind of wire is called compensation wire.

Different thermocouples require different compensating wires, and their main function is to connect with the thermocouple to keep the reference end of the thermocouple away from the power supply so that the temperature of the reference end is stable.

Compensation wires are divided into two types: compensation type and extension type. The chemical composition of the extension wire is the same as that of the thermocouple being compensated. However, in practice, the extended wire is not made of the same metal as the thermocouple. Generally, a wire with the same electron density as the thermocouple is used instead.

The connection between the compensation wire and the thermocouple is generally very clear. The positive pole of the thermocouple is connected to the red wire of the compensation lead, and the negative pole is connected to the remaining color. Most of the general compensation wires are made of copper-nickel alloy.

Extended reading:  Tri Clamp Sanitary Thermometers

  1. Thermocouple English Thermocouple, abbreviated as TC, works on the principle of outputting a linear millivolt signal as the temperature changes. The instrument amplifies the signal and converts it into a temperature signal.
  2. Thermal resistance English Resistance abbreviation RTD working principle is: the resistance value changes linearly with temperature changes.
  3. The temperature transmitter can convert the thermocouple mV voltage signal or the resistance value signal of the thermal resistance into a 4-20mA standard signal for automation system control.
  4. Generally speaking, thermal resistance is cheaper than thermocouple.

Extended reading: RTD vs. Thermocouple: What’s the Difference, and Which Should You Use?

Here, we list some temperature measurement ranges of thermal resistance and thermocouple sensors, and the thermoelectric potential and thermal resistance values of 100°C.

Thermocouple

  • Platinum Guy 10-Platinum (Type S) (0-1300℃), T=100℃, E(100,0)=0.646mV.
  • Platinum Guy 13-Platinum (R type) (0-1300℃), T=100℃, E(100,0)=0.647mV.
  • Zhenming-Zhensi (K type) (0-1200℃) T=100℃E(100,0)=4.096mV.
  • Zhenming-Constantan (Type E) (-200-760℃), T=100℃, E(100,0)=6.319mV

Thermal resistance

  • Platinum thermal resistance (pt100) (-200-850℃), T=100℃, R=138.50Q
  • Copper thermal resistance, (Cu50) (-50-150℃), T=100℃, R=71.4Q.

RTD vs Thermocouple difference

A thermocouple is a sensor that measures temperature. It is a temperature sensor like a thermal resistance. But the main difference between thermocouple and thermal resistance lies in:

  1. The nature of the signal.

The thermal resistance itself is a resistance, and the change of temperature causes the resistance to produce a positive or negative resistance change; while a thermocouple produces a change in the induced voltage, which changes with the change of temperature.

  1. The temperature ranges detected by the two sensors are different.

The thermal resistance generally detects the temperature range of 0-150 degrees. The highest measurement range can reach about 600 degrees (of course, negative temperature can be detected).

The thermocouple can detect a temperature range of 0-1000 degrees (or even higher). Therefore, the former is low temperature detection, and the latter is high temperature detection.

  1. Different materials

From the material point of view, thermal resistance is a metal material. Metal materials with temperature-sensitive changes, thermocouples are bimetallic materials. Both two different metals.

Due to the change in temperature, a potential difference is generated at the two ends of two different metal wires.

  1. PLC modules are different

The thermal resistance corresponding to PLC and the input module of thermocouple are also different, this sentence is no problem. But generally PLC is directly connected to 4-20ma signal, and thermal resistance and thermocouple are generally equipped with transmitter before they are connected to PLC. If you connect to DCS, you don’t need to use a transmitter! The thermal resistance is the RTD signal, and the thermocouple is the TC signal!

  1. PLC also has thermal resistance module and thermocouple module, which can directly input thermal resistance and thermocouple signals.

6. Different prices

Thermocouples are available in J, T, N, K, S and other models. Some are more expensive than resistors, and some are cheaper than resistors. However, if the compensation wire is included, the comprehensive cost of the thermocouple is higher. Thermal resistance is a resistance signal, and thermocouple is a voltage signal.

  1. Different measurement principles

The principle of thermal resistance temperature measurement is based on the property of the resistance of the conductor (or semiconductor) that changes with temperature. The measurement range is minus 00 to 500 degrees. Commonly used are platinum resistance (Pt100, Pt10), copper resistance Cu50 (minus 50-150 degrees).

The principle of thermocouple temperature measurement is based on the thermoelectric effect to measure temperature. Commonly used are platinum rhodium-platinum (graduation number S, measuring range 0~1300 degrees), nickel chromium-nickel silicon (graduation number K, measuring range 0~900 degrees), nickel chromium-constantan (graduation number E, measuring range 0 to 600 degrees), platinum rhodium 30-platinum rhodium 6 (grading number B, measuring range 0 to 1600 degrees).

RTD vs Thermocouple, how to choose?

The selection of thermocouple should be based on comprehensive considerations such as the use temperature range, the required accuracy, the use atmosphere, the performance of the measurement object, the response time and the economic benefits.

  1. Selection of measurement accuracy and temperature measurement range
  • When the operating temperature is 1300~1800℃ and the accuracy is relatively high, the B-type thermocouple is generally used;
  • The accuracy is not high, and the atmosphere allows the use of tungsten rhenium thermocouples.
  • Tungsten rhenium thermocouple is generally used above 1800℃;
  • The operating temperature is 1000~1300℃, the accuracy is required and the high accuracy is available. S-type thermocouple and N-type thermocouple are available;
  • Generally use K-type thermocouple and N-type thermocouple below 1000℃;
  • Generally use E-type thermocouple below 400℃;
  • T-type thermocouples are generally used for measurement at 250°C and negative temperature. T-type thermocouples are stable and have high accuracy at low temperatures.
  1. The choice of atmosphere

S-type, B-type, and K-type thermocouples are suitable for use in strong oxidizing and weak reducing atmospheres. J-type and T-type thermocouples are suitable for weak oxidizing and reducing atmospheres. If a protective tube with better airtightness is used, the requirements for the atmosphere are not too strict.

  1. Choice of durability and thermal response

Thermocouples with larger wire diameters have better durability, but their response is slower. For thermocouples with large heat capacity, the response is slow. When measuring a temperature with a large gradient, in the case of temperature control, the temperature control is poor. It requires a fast response time and a certain degree of durability, so it is more appropriate to choose an armored couple.

  1. The nature and state of the measuring object to choose the thermocouple

The temperature measurement of moving objects, vibrating objects, and high-pressure vessels requires high mechanical strength. A chemically polluted atmosphere requires a protective tube. In the case of electrical interference, higher insulation is required.

Selection process: model-index number-explosion-proof grade-precision grade-installation and fixed form-protective tube material-length or insertion depth.

Related Products:

Sino-Inst, Manufacuturer for Temperature Transmitters, like: Armoured thermocouple, assembly thermocouple, explosion-proof thermocouple, etc.

Sino-Inst’s Temperature Transmitters, made in China, Having good Quality, With better price. Our Temperature measurement instruments are widely used in China, India, Pakistan, US, and other countries.

Furnace thermocouple Topics

How does a furnace thermocouple work?

In industrial furnaces, armored thermocouples are often used as Furnace thermocouples. The thermocouple body has a metal sheath, which can directly measure the temperature of the medium. Or it can be placed in a protective tube as a temperature measurement core element. It has the advantages of bending, high-pressure resistance, fast thermal response time, sturdiness, and durability.

Armored thermocouples are usually used in conjunction with display instruments, paperless recorders and regulators. It can measure the temperature of liquid, vapor and gaseous media and solid surfaces in the range of 0-1600°C during various production processes.

Place the thermocouple core wire and inorganic mineral insulating material in a metal sleeve. The stretched solid assembly that can be wound becomes an MI Cable.

The armored thermocouple cable made of thermocouple wire as the core is welded to form the measuring end and assembled with the relevant junction box. The thermocouple is called the armored thermocouple. Furnace thermocouples can be manufactured into insulated, grounded, and exposed-end types as required.

Furnace thermocouple-Solution for coal chemical gasifier

The gasifier is the most representative device of the coal chemical industry. Sino-Inst is based on the special conditions of the TEXACO gasifier and the Shell gasifier. It shares the special structure and material selection of the gasifier thermocouple and other professional knowledge. Help users solve special problems The problem of temperature measurement in the occasion.

Accurate measurement and strict control of temperature are the key factors to ensure the normal operation of the process. It will directly affect whether the process is carried out under ideal conditions. It will even affect the service life, safety production and environmental protection of the overall equipment.

The temperature measurement conditions of TEXACO gasifiers and Shell gasifiers in the coal chemical industry are extremely specific due to the gasifier body structure, internal medium, reaction process, and operating conditions. Therefore, the choice of the corresponding Furnace thermocouple also highlights its special importance and complexity.

The author relies on many years of rich experience. The representative and typical working conditions of TEXACO gasifier and Shell gasifier. As well as the selection principles and precautions of the corresponding thermocouples, which I will discuss with you. It aims to provide reference guidance and suggestions for coal chemical users.

1.TEXACO gasifier

① Operating conditions of TEXACO gasifier

Representative sites of TEXACO gasifiers include Ningxia Coal Group’s 250kt/a methanol plant, Shenhua Baotou and Inner Mongolia Jiutai Energy’s coal-to-olefin project.

The above site adopts the TEXACO rapid cooling process and the whole waste boiler process, which is the most advanced energy-saving process in the world.

TEXACO gasifier has special working conditions such as high temperature, high pressure, coexistence of oxidizing and reducing atmospheres, strong scouring, and sudden changes in temperature and pressure.

The operating temperature of the combustion chamber is 1350-1500℃, and the operating pressure is 2.5-8.7 MPa.

The flame gas contains CO, H2, CO2, H2O, CH4, Ar, N2 and H2S and other components.

The melting point of coal ash is 1310-1370°C.

The shell of the combustion chamber and the lining refractory bricks are likely to shear each other due to the different coefficients of thermal expansion.

The most important thing is that the scouring and abrasion in the gasifier is extremely serious, so the measuring point of the thermometer must be located 15-25mm away from the inner wall of the furnace wall.

However, it is difficult to ensure uniformity in the furnace wall during the masonry process. Coupled with the existence of scouring and wear in the furnace. The furnace wall will be inevitably thinned gradually during the production process.

②The performance requirements of TEXACO gasifier for Furnace thermocouple:

Due to the special working conditions of the above-mentioned TEXACO furnace, the temperature sensor must be able to withstand a high temperature of 1600°C and a high pressure of 8.7MPa.

It can resist the double corrosion of oxidizing and reducing gas at the same time.

It has an adjustable insertion length and a follow-up structure. When the inner lining changes in thickness and torsion and shear, corresponding structural changes can be made.

③Temperature measurement solution for TEXACO gasifier

In response to these requirements, the Furnace thermocouple is designed with special materials and structure. It satisfies the harsh requirements of the gasifier operating conditions for the temperature sensor. It is a kind of thermocouple special for gasifiers with adjustable anti-vibration, erosion resistance, anti-oxidation, and multi-stage leakage resistance.

First of all, the main structure of the Furnace thermocouple adopts the design concept of adjustable anti-vibration.

When the thickness of the gasifier wall lining changes, the Furnace thermocouple can be adjusted within the range of ±120mm through the shrinkable threaded sleeve. In order to achieve the measurement, the element is always maintained in the best position.

When the furnace shell and the inner lining are sheared, the universal rotating ball can be used to make the probe rotate with the inclination. And under the action of the limit guide tube and the correction damping spring.

Keep the probe always in the correct position in the center of the wall bushing. It prevents the thermocouple of the gasification furnace from being broken when the furnace wall is deformed.

Multi-stage leak-proof structure design. When the thermowell is damaged, it can prevent convection between the inside of the furnace and the outside through the sleeve. Safety hazards caused by high temperature conduction or even leakage in the furnace. Reflect safety awareness and environmental protection concepts.

Secondly, the Furnace thermocouple protection tube material adopts imported silicon carbide material made by pressureless sintering of sub-micron silicon carbide powder. The material has the dual characteristics of ceramic and metal and can be used reliably even at high temperatures exceeding 1750°C.

Its thermal conductivity is equivalent to stainless steel, 5 times that of alumina. Hardness is one of the high-performance materials second only to diamond. Ultra-fine crystals smaller than 10μm have been tested by helium gas leak detection.

The porosity is almost 0, which can effectively prevent H2 and CO from damaging the Furnace thermocouple wire through the pores on the tube wall. Ultra-high hardness and density make it have ideal wear resistance and long-term resistance to material erosion. It can work in oxidizing and reducing atmospheres and corrosive environments of strong acids and alkalis even at ultra-high temperatures.

2.Shell gasifier

At present, more than ten sets of Shell gasifiers have been introduced in China. Representative sites are Henan Kaixiang Methanol Project, Yunwei Group’s synthetic ammonia and Guangxi Liuhua coal gasification plants.

①Shell gasifier operating conditions characteristics

Conditions to ensure the normal operation of Shell gasifiers:

Neither can cause damage to the over-temperature of the vaporizer. It is necessary to consume the lowest amount of oxygen as much as possible. To achieve complete carbon conversion, temperature control is essential.

However, the structural characteristics of the Shell gasifier determines that the temperature of the gasifier cannot be directly measured. It can only be controlled by indirect methods.

An “annular space” is formed between the inner membrane wall of the gasification furnace and the outer shell. Hot syngas cannot escape into the “annular space”, causing the shell to overheat. Calculating the temperature in the furnace by measuring the temperature of the water wall in the “annular space” is the characteristic of Shell gasification furnace temperature measurement.

The temperature in the “annular space” is collected at multiple points, and each temperature measurement point is the key to understanding whether the gasifier is operating normally. If there is any abnormality, find and analyze the cause immediately. And deal with it in time, otherwise it will cause major damage to the gasifier.

②Shell gasifier performance requirements for Furnace thermocouples

Because the pulverized coal of Shell gasifier is 4MPa. It is combusted with O2 and steam in a gasifier at around 1500°C. And when it was sent to the coal burner, it was already under a pressure of 2MPa. Therefore, the thermometer is required to have a pressure resistance of not less than 2MPa. It also has emergency measures in case of overpressure, and can withstand a high temperature of 1500°C.

Because the Shell gasifier is composite equipment that integrates dynamic and static equipment, as well as combustion, reaction, heat exchange, and quenching processes. Therefore, it is required that the thermocouple used must be easy to install and remove, and easy to replace. Because of its complex structure and many control points, a multi-point thermocouple must be used.

③Shell gasifier temperature measurement solution

The design solution of the special Furnace thermocouple for the multi-point core-pulling and leak-proof Shell gasifier has solved the on-site requirements.

a. Multi-point thermocouples of different lengths (up to 6m) are used to measure the temperature of different control points in one fell swoop, using 3-point or 4-point thermocouples.

b. According to the characteristics of on-site installation, 4in (1in=25.4mm) No. 600 flange mounting parts are used. This part and the temperature measurement body are separable structures. The flange installation and fixing can be completed first. Then the temperature measurement body Installation with flange.

This solution allows the bulky flange to be installed at one time. In daily maintenance, only the main part needs to be replaced, which is convenient and quick. Closely combined with this structure is the independent replaceability of the core elements. Each measuring element is a detachable individual. If any one fails, it can be taken out and replaced separately. The maintenance cost and the quantity and expense of spare parts are reduced.

c. Due to the large amount of HCl in the medium in the furnace. Incoloy and Inconel alloys are often used in equipment manufacturing. In order to maintain a high resistance to high temperature and corrosion, the selection of Furnace thermocouple protection tube materials must all use Inconel600 alloy. Keep temperature measurement components , The material consistency of the mounting flange and the sealing sleeve.

d. The thermometer must have a multi-stage leak-proof sealing structure design. That is, each element must have a double-stage leak-proof device. When any temperature measuring element is damaged, due to the existence of leak-proof, the “annular space” The high temperature and high pressure airflow will not leak. It also guarantees the safety and environmental protection on-site requirements.

3.Furnace thermocouple installation instructions

①After the gasifier is shut down, consider the decompression effect of refractory materials and pressure vessels and the problems of thermal expansion and contraction. The pressure relief and replacement process of the gasifier is carried out slowly, and the furnace pressure should be basically reduced to atmospheric pressure and completely replaced.

After that, while the molten slag has not completely solidified, the gasifier thermocouple is drawn out of the furnace.

If the slag is solidified, the thermocouple ceramic sleeve cannot be pulled out, only the metal part at the back can be pulled out. The ceramic sleeve is usually driven into the furnace with a special tool.

②When installing a new gasifier thermocouple, put the assembled gasifier thermocouple on a special bracket. The bracket is placed on the wheeled trolley so that the gasifier thermocouple is exactly aligned with the gasifier thermocouple.

The equipment takes over in the middle. Slowly push the gasifier thermocouple into the furnace, about 10mm every 5 minutes. Protect the thermocouple from thermal shock.

Related Products:

Sino-Inst, Manufacuturer for Temperature Transmitters, like: Armoured thermocouple, assembly thermocouple, explosion-proof thermocouple, etc.

Sino-Inst’s Temperature Transmitters, made in China, Having good Quality, With better price. Our Temperature measurement instruments are widely used in China, India, Pakistan, US, and other countries.

Guidebook: Bimetallic Stemmed Thermometer

A bimetallic stemmed thermometer is a simple but effective tool used in a variety of industries, including food, HVAC, medical, and automotive. It’s easy to use, requires no external power source, and is highly durable. In this guidebook, we’ll explain how a bimetallic stemmed thermometer works, its advantages and disadvantages, how to use it, and its various applications. So, whether you’re a professional or just curious about thermometers, you’ll find everything you need to know right here. Let’s get started!

What is a bimetallic stemmed thermometer?

Bimetallic stemmed thermometer is an instrument that uses two different metals to measure temperature. Combine two metals with different coefficients of linear expansion and fix one end. When the temperature changes, the two metals thermally expand differently. Drive the pointer to deflect to indicate the temperature. This is the bimetallic thermometer. It can directly measure the temperature of liquid, steam, and gaseous media in the range of -80℃~+500℃ in various production processes.

Benefits of Bimetallic stemmed thermometer

(1) The thermoelectric potential is not disturbed. The thermoelectric potential of the bimetal thermometer is not disturbed by other factors. It has strong adaptability to different measurement environments. 

(2) The structure is diverse and can meet different measurement requirements. It can be used as electric contact bimetal thermometer, explosion-proof electric contact bimetal thermometer, bimetal thermometer with remote transmission, etc.

(3) The temperature response speed is fast, and there is strong sensitivity. At the same time, temperature changes are intuitive and can be displayed and recorded on site.

(4) Small size, convenient application, and strong temperature measurement reliability. Nominal diameter of dial: 60,100 (4 inch), 150 optional;

(5) It has a long service life, can be used in the temperature detection of chemical production for a long time, and has stable physical and chemical properties.

(6) Stable anti-corrosion performance. The application of bimetallic thermometers in chemical production often needs to be used in liquid and gas environments. It has a good anti-corrosion ability to protect pipes. It will not be affected by measurement conditions and cause corrosion problems that affect measurement quality.

(7) Strong pressure bearing. It has good pressure-bearing capacity, can be measured in different pressure levels, and has strong adaptability to measurement conditions.

(8) The conductivity is high. The temperature coefficient of resistance is small, and the thermoelectric potential has a linear relationship with the temperature, and the linearity is good.

A bimetallic stemmed thermometer works by using two different metals that are joined together. When the temperature changes, the two metals expand at different rates, causing them to bend or twist. This movement is then translated into a temperature reading on the dial. It’s like when you’re trying to open a jar that’s been in the fridge – you run it under hot water to expand the lid and make it easier to open. The bimetallic thermometer works in the same way, using the different expansion rates of the two metals to measure temperature accurately. It’s a simple but effective method that has been used for many years.

Here are some benefits of using a bimetallic stemmed thermometer that you might find helpful:

Highly Accurate: A bimetallic stemmed thermometer is one of the most accurate ways to measure temperature.
Durable: These thermometers are made to last.
No External Power Source Required: You don’t need to plug a bimetallic stemmed thermometer into an electrical outlet or replace batteries.
Versatile: You can use a bimetallic stemmed thermometer in many different situations.

In summary, a bimetallic stemmed thermometer is a simple, reliable, and accurate tool that is versatile and durable. It’s a great option for anyone who needs to measure temperature regularly.

How to Calibrate a Bimetallic Thermometer

Method 1: Ice water

1. Fill the container with ice cubes, and then top up with cold distilled water to form a watery slurry.

2. Insert the thermometer probe into the container, making sure not to touch the side.

3. The temperature should be 32°F (0°C) after 30 seconds. If not, the thermometer needs to be recalibrated. Record the difference and offset the thermometer as needed.

Method 2: boiling water

1. Boil a clean container of distilled water.

2. Once the water boils, insert the thermometer probe. Make sure again that the probe does not touch the side or bottom of the pot.

3. The temperature should be 212°F (100°C). Record the difference and offset the thermometer as needed. Note that the boiling point of water varies with altitude. Use this handy water boiling point calculator to find the temperature that suits your altitude.

The bimetal thermometer is an on-site detection instrument for measuring low and medium temperatures. It can directly measure the temperature of liquid, steam and gas medium in the range of -80℃~500℃ in various production processes.

The electric contact bimetal thermometer is used in the production site for temperature control and alarm.

Directly measure the temperature of liquid, steam and gaseous media in the range of -80℃~500℃ in various production processes.

The explosion-proof bimetal thermometer can directly measure the presence of hydrocarbons and other explosives at the scene. Directly measure the temperature of liquid, steam and gaseous media in the range of -80℃~500℃ in various production processes.

The remote bimetal thermometer can directly read the field temperature. And can transmit the temperature signal to the remote control system.

Extended reading:  Tri Clamp Sanitary Thermometers

Temperature range Accuracy class Graduation value ℃ Minimum insertion depth Lmin (mm)
Φ6 Φ8 Φ10
-40℃~80℃ 1.5 2 45 55 60
0℃~50℃ 1.5 1 110 130 140
0℃~100℃ 1.5 2 55 65 70
0℃~150℃ 1.5 2 40 45 50
0℃~200℃ 1.5 5 30 35 40
0℃~300℃ 1.5 5 50 60 60
0℃~400℃ 1.5 10 40 50 50
0℃~500℃ 1.5 10 35 40 40
0℃~600℃ 1.5 10 30 35 35
customizable 1 * * * *

Related Products:

Sino-Inst, Manufacturer for Bimetallic stemmed thermometers, like Digital Thermometer/Transmitter, Digital Thermometer/Transmitter, explosion-proof thermocouple, etc.

Sino-Inst’s Bimetallic stemmed thermometers, made in China, Having good Quality, With better price. Our Temperature measurement instruments are widely used in China, India, Pakistan, the US, and other countries.

Temperature Sensor Transmitter—-Do You Know?

Temperature sensor transmitter is a combination of temperature sensor and temperature transmitter. It can be used in chemistry and medicine.

Thermocouple, thermal resistance and temperature transmitter of SBW series are the temperature transmitter units of on-site installation type in DDZ series instruments and they are used by matching with industrial thermocouple, thermal resistance. It uses dual-wire transmission mode(two conducting wires are used as the common transmission lines for power input and signal output).

It transforms the industrial thermocouple, thermal resistance signal into 4-20mA and 0-10 mA output signals which are linear with input signal and temperature signal. The transmitter can be directly installed in the junction box of the thermocouple and thermal resistance so as to form an integrated structure. As the temperature measuring instruments of new generation, it is widely used in metallurgy, petroleum, chemical industry, electric power, light industry, textile, food, national defense, scientific research and other industrial sectors.

Sino-Inst offers a variety of Temperature sensor transmitter. If you have any questions, please contact our sales engineers.

The Difference Between Temperature Sensor Transmitter

A temperature sensor refers to a sensor that can sense temperature and convert it into a usable output signal. Temperature sensor is the core part of temperature measuring instrument, and there are many types. According to the measurement method, it can be divided into two categories: contact type and non-contact type.

Temperature transmitter uses thermocouple and thermal resistance as temperature measuring elementAfter measurement, the output signal is sent to the transmitter after voltage stability filtering, operational amplification, nonlinear correction, V/I conversion, constant current and reverse

Temperature sensor transmitter is a combination of temperature sensor and temperature transmitter.

read more about Temperature sensor transmitter

The Function Of The Temperature Transmitter

A temperature transmitter is an instrument that converts a temperature variable into a standard output signal that can be transmitted.Mainly used for the measurement and control of temperature parameters in industrial processes.
The temperature current transmitter converts the signal of the temperature sensor into a current signal, and connects it to an auxiliary instrument to display the corresponding temperature.

Advantage Analysis

  • High precision
  • The range and zero point can be continuously adjusted from the outside
  • Good stability
  • Positive mobility can reach 500%, negative mobility can reach 600%
  • Two-wire system, three-wire system, four-wire system
  • Adjustable damping, overvoltage resistance
  • Solid state sensor design
  • No mechanical moving parts, less maintenance
  • Light weight (2.4kg)
  • Full series of unified structure, strong interchangeability
  • Miniaturization (total height 166mm)
  • The diaphragm material contact medium is optional
  • Unilateral overpressure
  • Low-pressure casting aluminum alloy shell
  • Superior measurement performance, used for pressure, differential pressure, liquid level, flow measurement

Technical Parameter

1. input
Thermocouple: (two wire system), voltage: connect cable:sensor lead, maximum impedance 1.5k
Thermal resistance: (three wire system, four wire system), resistance measurement: connect cable: resistance compensation can reach 50.
2.output Isolated voltage 0.5kV instead of 2.5KV
3.Transmitter input options, accuracy and environmental temperature impact.

How Does A Thermocouple Transmitter Work?

Thermocouple or thermal resistance sensor will be converted into electrical signal by the temperature and then, the signal is sent to the input network of the transmitter which is consisted of zero adjustment circuit, a thermocouple compensation circuit and other related circuits. The signal after zero adjustment will be input to the operational amplifier for signal amplification. The signal after amplification will be output as 4 ~ 20mA DC after being processed by the V/I converter in one way; in another way, it will be displayed in gauge outfit after being processed by A/D converter.

There are two kinds of linear circuit in the transmitter, both of which adopt the feedback mode. The thermal resistance sensor is corrected by the positive feedback mode while the thermocouple sensor is corrected by approximation method of multiple-segment line. There are two kinds of display modes for the temperature transmitter of integrated digital display. The temperature transmitter displayed by LCD is output by the two-wire system while the temperature transmitter displayed by LED is output by the three-wire system.

  1. Bimetal sensor:The bimetal consists of two pieces of metal with different expansion coefficients glued together. As temperature changes, material A will expand more than other metals, causing the metal plate to bend. The curvature of the bend can be converted into an output signal.
  2. Bimetal rod and metal tube sensor:As the temperature rises, the length of the metal pipe (material A) increases,but the length of the unexpanded steel pipe (metal B) does not increase, so due to the change in position, the linear expansion of the metal pipe can be transmitted. Furthermore, this linear expansion can be converted into an output signal.
  3. Sensor designed for liquid and gas deformation curve:When the temperature changes, the volume of liquid and gas will change accordingly.

Various types of structures can convert this expansion change into a position change, thereby generating a position change.

Bimetallic Thermometer
SIRD-903 26 GHz Radar level Sensor

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