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.

    1457 Products showing for Thermocouples

    RS PRO
    J
    5mm
    20mm
    +400°C
    316 Stainless Steel
    -
    Cable
    2.5m
    RoHS Compliant
    0.7 s
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    J
    5mm
    20mm
    +600°C
    316L Stainless Steel
    -
    Cable
    2.5m
    RoHS Compliant
    4 s
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    3mm
    250mm
    +1100°C
    Stainless Steel
    -
    Bare Wire Tail
    100mm
    IEC, RoHS Compliant
    -
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    1/0.5mm
    5m
    +250°C
    PFA
    -
    Miniature Plug
    5m
    IEC, RoHS Compliant
    -
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    1.5mm
    150mm
    +1100°C
    Stainless Steel
    -
    Bare Wire Tail
    1m
    IEC, RoHS Compliant
    -
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    1/0.508mm
    2m
    +350°C
    Glass Fibre
    -
    Miniature Plug
    2m
    IEC, RoHS Compliant
    -
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    4.5mm
    150mm
    +350°C
    Stainless Steel
    Probe Thermocouple
    Bare Wire Tail
    1m
    JIS
    -
    -
    -60°C
    RS PRO
    J
    6mm
    600mm
    +700°C
    316L Stainless Steel
    -
    Connection Head
    -
    RoHS Compliant
    5 s
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    40 x 13 x 5mm
    1m
    +150°C
    Silicone Rubber
    -
    Bare Wire Tail
    1m
    IEC, RoHS Compliant
    -
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    1/0.5mm
    5m
    +250°C
    PFA
    -
    Miniature Plug
    5m
    IEC, RoHS Compliant
    -
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    J
    5mm
    20mm
    +400°C
    316 Stainless Steel
    -
    Cable
    2.5m
    RoHS Compliant
    0.7 s
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    2mm
    1m
    +250°C
    Teflon PTFE
    -
    Cable
    1m
    RoHS Compliant
    0.5 s
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    1.5mm
    500mm
    +1100°C
    316 Stainless Steel
    -
    Bare Wire Tail
    100mm
    IEC, RoHS Compliant
    -
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    40 → 50mm
    2m
    +1100°C
    316 Stainless Steel
    -
    Cable
    2m
    RoHS Compliant
    0.7 s
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    6mm
    250mm
    +1100°C
    Stainless Steel
    -
    Standard Plug
    -
    IEC, RoHS Compliant
    -
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    4mm
    25mm
    +350°C
    Stainless Steel
    -
    Bare Wire Tail
    2m
    IEC, RoHS Compliant
    -
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    1/0.315mm
    2m
    +350°C
    Glass Fibre
    -
    Miniature Plug
    2m
    IEC, RoHS Compliant
    -
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    1.5mm
    2m
    +1100°C
    Stainless Steel
    -
    Bare Wire Tail
    100mm
    IEC, RoHS Compliant
    -
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    K
    13 → 20mm
    2m
    +1100°C
    -
    -
    Cable
    2m
    RoHS Compliant
    0.7 s
    -
    -
    RS PRO
    J
    3mm
    150mm
    +760°C
    Stainless Steel
    -
    Bare Wire Tail
    1m
    IEC, RoHS Compliant
    -
    -
    -
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