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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](https://docs.rs-online.com/96d5/0900766b815e5302.pdf) [selection guide](/web/content/discovery/ideas-and-advice/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

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Thermocouples | Temperature Sensors | RS

Thermocouples

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K Type Thermocouples| Thermocouples |RS

<p>A K-type thermocouple is a type of temperature sensor used for measuring temperature in various industrial and scientific applications. It is one of the most used thermocouple types due to its wide temperature range, accuracy, and durability.</p><h2>What is a K Type Thermocouple?</h2><p>The K-type thermocouple consists of two different metal wires, usually made of chromel and alumel. These two wires are joined at one end to form the sensing junction, while the other ends are connected to a measurement instrument or control system.</p><p>The principle behind the operation of a thermocouple is based on the Seebeck effect, which states that when two dissimilar metals are connected at two different temperatures, a voltage is generated across the junction proportional to the temperature difference. The K-type thermocouple utilizes the voltage generated by the temperature gradient between the sensing junction and the reference junction to measure temperature.</p><h2>Why Use a K Type Thermocouple?</h2><p>K-type thermocouples can operate over a wide temperature range. They have good accuracy and stability, making them suitable for a variety of applications in industries such as manufacturing, heating, and cooling systems, food processing, and scientific research.</p><p>To measure temperature using a K-type thermocouple, a thermocouple thermometer or a data acquisition system is typically used to measure the voltage across the thermocouple and convert it into temperature readings. The voltage output is nonlinear, so conversion tables or equations are used to accurately determine the temperature based on the voltage measurement.</p><p>While K-type thermocouples are versatile and widely used, their accuracy may vary depending on factors such as the quality of the wires and the measurement equipment used. Calibrating the thermocouple periodically against a known temperature reference is recommended to ensure accurate temperature measurements.</p>

J Type Thermocouples

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