Thermocouples | Temperature Sensor | RS
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    Thermocouples

    Wondering what a thermocouple is? A thermocouple is a temperature sensor that generates a voltage signal based on the temperature difference between two different metals or alloys. It consists of two dissimilar metal wires joined together at one end, forming a junction. When this junction is exposed to a temperature gradient, it produces a small voltage (which is known as the measuring junction) that is proportional to the temperature difference. You can read more about these sensors in our bespoke Thermocouples Guide.

    This phenomenon is known as the Seebeck effect. It occurs because different metals have different electron configurations, resulting in varying electron densities and thermal conductivities. As a result, when the junction is exposed to a temperature difference, an electric current is induced due to the flow of electrons from the hotter metal to the colder metal.

    The voltage produced by the thermocouple can be read and measured by a voltmeter or a specialized temperature measurement device. By knowing the relationship between the temperature and the voltage output, typically described in a calibration table or equation specific to the type of thermocouple being used, the temperature at the measurement point can be determined.

    Types of thermocouples

    There are a wide range of thermocouple types available, each with different characteristics such as temperature range and their robustness. Each thermocouple is defined by a letter such as K-Type. Common thermocouple types also include: Type J, Type K, Type L and Type T

    The letters refer to the type of materials used which indicates what temperature they are usable at. For example, J-Type is iron and copper-nickel and is useable from around 0°C to 816°C, depending on other characteristics. Some thermocouples come with an additional sheath that insulate the wires to prolong their life.

    Thermocouples are widely used in various industries for temperature monitoring and control applications. They are ideal tools for the measurement of high temperatures and are a popular choice as they are so robust, reliable and an affordable solution.

    What are Thermocouples used for?

    They can be used in many applications, both domestic and industrial. Some examples include:

    • Thermostats
    • Hospitals
    • Thermometers
    • Vehicle Diagnostics
    • Boilers and Heating
    • Sensors
    • Oven Safety Features
    • Food Thermometers

    Browse the broad range of Thermocouples RS has to offer and order today with next day delivery options available.

    1327 Products showing for Thermocouples

    RS PRO
    J
    2mm
    300mm
    +400°C
    316 Stainless Steel
    -
    Cable
    2m
    RoHS Compliant
    1 s
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    2mm
    250mm
    +1100°C
    310 Stainless Steel
    -
    Miniature Plug
    -
    IEC, RoHS Compliant
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    J
    8mm
    20mm
    +400°C
    316 Stainless Steel
    -
    Cable
    2.5m
    RoHS Compliant
    0.7 s
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    1.5mm
    500mm
    +1100°C
    Inconel 600
    -
    Cable
    100mm
    IEC
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    7/0.2mm
    5m
    +260°C
    PFA
    Hermetically Sealed Thermocouple
    Bare Wire Tail
    5m
    IEC, RoHS Compliant
    -
    -75°C
    RS PRO
    J
    3mm
    150mm
    +760°C
    Stainless Steel
    -
    Bare Wire Tail
    1m
    IEC, RoHS Compliant
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    1/0.2mm
    10m
    +250°C
    PFA
    XQ
    Miniature Plug
    10m
    JIS
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    6mm
    1m
    +1100°C
    310 Stainless Steel
    XQ
    Bare Wire Tail
    100mm
    JIS
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    1mm
    250mm
    +750°C
    Stainless Steel
    -
    Bare Wire Tail
    1m
    ANSI, RoHS Compliant
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    7/0.2mm
    1m
    +260°C
    PFA
    Hermetically Sealed Thermocouple
    Bare Wire Tail
    1m
    ANSI, RoHS Compliant
    -
    -75°C
    RS PRO
    K
    7/0.2mm
    10m
    +105°C
    PVC
    XQ
    Miniature Plug
    10m
    JIS
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    1.5mm
    250mm
    +1100°C
    Stainless Steel
    -
    Bare Wire Tail
    100mm
    IEC, RoHS Compliant
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    3mm
    250mm
    +1100°C
    310 Stainless Steel
    XQ
    Miniature Plug
    -
    JIS
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    1.5mm
    150mm
    +1100°C
    310 Stainless Steel
    XQ
    Miniature Plug
    -
    JIS
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    T
    1/0.2mm
    10m
    +260°C
    PTFE
    -
    Miniature Plug
    10m
    IEC, RoHS Compliant
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    1/0.3mm
    3m
    +260°C
    PFA
    -
    Overmoulded Male Miniature Plug
    3m
    ANSI, RoHS Compliant
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    T
    7/0.2mm
    2m
    +260°C
    PFA
    Hermetically Sealed Thermocouple
    Bare Wire Tail
    2m
    IEC, RoHS Compliant
    -
    -75°C
    RS PRO
    K
    40 x 13 x 5mm
    1m
    +150°C
    Silicone Rubber
    -
    Bare Wire Tail
    1m
    IEC, RoHS Compliant
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    6.35mm
    2m
    +200°C
    Copper
    XQ
    Bare Wire Tail
    2m
    JIS
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    6.35mm
    2m
    +200°C
    Copper
    XQ
    Miniature Plug
    2m
    JIS
    -
    -
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