Satara
Department of Electrical
Engineering
Thermocouple
Prepared by :- Raviraj
Pawar
Roll No. :- 218
Introduction
• A thermocouple is an electrical device or sensor which measures Temperature.It can
measure a wide range of temperatures.It consisting of two dissimilar conductors forming
electrical junctions at differing temperatures.• A thermocouple produces a temperature-
dependent voltage as a result of the thermoelectric effect,And this voltage can be
interpreted to measure temperature.The device consists of two dissimilar metals or
semiconductors that contact each other in one are more points.One end is connected to
the region where the temperature is to be measured.This end considered as the hot region
or the measuring region.The end is connected to the body of known temperature.This
end is considered as cold region or the reference junction.Thus it measure temperature
with respect to reference junction.
Types of Thermocouple
• There are many types of thermocouples, each with a different alloy combination and temperature
range:
•
• Type K: Temperature range: -200°C to 0°C and 0°C to 1250°C. Well suited for oxidizing
atmospheres.
•
• Type J: Temperature range: 0°C to 750°C. A reducing atmosphere is recommended.
•
• Type E: Temperature range: -200°C to 0°C and 0°C to 900°C.
•
Construction of
Thermocouple
A thermocouple consists of two dissimilar metal wires joined at
one end, forming a hot junction . The other ends are connected
to a measurement device (cold junction). When the hot junction
is exposed to a temperature difference, a small voltage is
generated due to the Seebeck effect, which is proportional to the
temperature difference between the hot and cold junctions. The
wires are often insulated and protected by a sheath, and the
temperature is read by measuring the voltage generated.
Working of Thermocouple
The thermocouple works on Principal name
Seebeck Effect
In 1821, the German physicist Thomas Johann Seebeck
discovered that when different metals are joined at the ends
and there is a temperature difference between the joints, a
magnetic field is observed. The magnetic field he observed
was later shown to be due to thermo- electric current. Or emf
is generated.
The amount of emf generated is different for different
combinations of the metals.
Advantages of Thermocouple
It has rugged construction.
Covers a wide range of temperature.
Extension leads and wires can be connect to measure temperature at long ranges
Comparatively cheaper at cost.
Calibration can be easily checked.
• High Speed of response.
Disadvantages of Thermocouple
Least stable, least repeatable
Low sensitivity to small temperature changes
Extension wire must be of the same thermocouple type
• Wire may pick up radiated electrical noise if not shielded Lowest accuracy
Application of Thermocouple
• Type B, S, R and K are widely used in iron and steel
industries to monitor the temperature through out
any industrial operation.
• Gas-Fed heating devices such is Ovens and Water
heaters.
• In testing of prototype of Electrical and Mechanical
apparatus.
Conclusion
• thermocouples are versatile temperature sensors widely used for measuring a
broad range of temperatures in various industrial, scientific, and research
applications. Their simplicity, durability, and wide temperature measurement
capabilities make them a preferred choice in many fields. Despite their
advantages, thermocouples are also subject to limitations, including potential
inaccuracies caused by factors like wiring material, environmental conditions,
and the need for proper calibration. Nevertheless, when properly selected and
applied, thermocouples provide reliable, real-time temperature measurements
that are crucial for controlling processes, monitoring systems, and ensuring
safety.
Thank You
