From RS Pro a range of type K thermocouple temperature sensors that conform to IEC 584 stanadards with a Class 1 tolerance for optimum accuracy. These temperature sensors have a durable construction and feature a stainless steel 310 probe sheath and a PFA insulated lead. The mineral insulated flexible probe sheath can be bent and formed to suit a wide range of applications. The thermocouple has a single element insulated hot junction for a reduction in electrical interference and a plain pot seal with a temperature rating of 200°C.

A thermocouple is a sensor used to measure temperature in a range of different processes and consists of two wire legs made from different metals joined together at their two ends to form two junctions. The hot, or measuring junction is connected to the body whose temperature is going to be measured. The cold junction or reference junction is connected to a body of known temperature. When the measuring junction is placed on something hot a voltage or potential difference between this and the reference junction occurs. This voltage can then be converted into a temperature measurement using thermocouple reference tables. This process is also known as the Seebeck Effect

An insulated or ungrounded junction is where the thermocouple wires are welded together and fully covered by but insulated from the outer protective sheath, often by the use of mineral insulation. The advantage of this is that there is a reduction in electrical interference and a stable reading

Mineral insulation is used to insulate the thermocouple wires from one another and from the metal probe sheath that surrounds them. The sheath is filled with a highly compacted magnesium oxide powder that prevents the conductors from making contact with one another other than at the fixed junction. The high density of the mineral powder enables the thermocouple to have a rapid response as it promotes a fast heat transfer between the conductor and the sheath. Mineral insulation also helps to protect the thermocouple wire from environmental damage including corrosion, prevents electrical interference and allows the cable to be flexible whilst maintaining its mechanical strength

• Durable 321 stainless steel sheath for protection against corrosion and oxidation
• IEC 584 class 1 accuracy for optimum performance
• Mineral insulation for flexibility, durability and high performance
• Insulated hot junction for reduction in electrical interference
• PFA insulated lead for resistance to oils, acid, fluids and good mechanical strength and flexibility
• 100 to 760°C sensor range

The type J is a common type of thermocouple but has a smaller temperature range and a shorter lifespan at higher temperatures than the Type K but has the same reliability. Type J thermocouples are ideal for monitoring the temperatures of inert materials and in vacuum applications. Applications include heat processes such as the manufacturing of plastic and resin and in electrical furnaces

Pot seal maximum temperature is limited to 180°C