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Type K Thermocouple: Professional components for industrial temperature measurement
Product Overview
Type K thermocouple is one of the most widely used temperature sensors in industrial, commercial, and scientific applications. Renowned for its durability, wide temperature range, and cost-effectiveness, it has become a standard choice for temperature measurement across diverse sectors.
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Key Specifications
|
Parameter |
Specification |
| Temperature Range | -200°C to +1260°C |
| Accuracy (Standard) | ±2.2°C or ±0.75% of reading, whichever is greater (for temperatures above 0°C) |
| Accuracy (Special Grade) | ±1.1°C or ±0.4% of reading, whichever is greater (for temperatures above 0°C) |
| Thermoelectric Sensitivity (Seebeck Coefficient) | Approximately 41.2 µV/°C at 25°C (77°F) |
| Chemical Composition | Positive leg: 90% Ni / 10% Cr; Negative leg: 95% Ni / 2% Al / 2% Mn / 1% Si |
| Maximum Continuous Use Temperature | +1100°C for standard wire; +1260°C for high-grade wire |
| Minimum Use Temperature | -200°C |
Measuring Range and Accuracy:
| Type | Conductor Material | Code | Accuracy | |||
| ClassⅠ | ClassⅡ | |||||
| Accuracy | Temperature range( °C ) | Accuracy | Temperature range( °C ) | |||
| K | NiCr-NiSi | WRN | 1.5°C | -1040 | ±2.5°C | -1040 |
| J | Fe-CuNi | WRF | Or | -790 | or | -790 |
| E | NiCr-CuNi | WRE | ±0.4%|t| | -840 | ±0.75%|t| | -840 |
| N | NiCrSi-NiSi | WRM | -1140 | -1240 | ||
| T | Cu-CuNi | WRC | ±0.5°C or | -390 | ±1°C or | -390 |
| ±0.4%|t| | 0.75%|t| | |||||
Advantages of Type K Thermocouples
Wide Temperature Range
Type K thermocouples can measure temperatures from -200°C to +1260°C, making them suitable for applications ranging from cryogenic environments to high-temperature industrial processes such as furnace monitoring and metal smelting.
Cost-Effectiveness
Compared to other thermocouple types like Type S (platinum-rhodium) or Type B, Type K thermocouples are significantly more affordable while still delivering reliable performance for most industrial needs. This makes them ideal for large-scale deployments where cost per sensor is a critical factor.
Durability and Mechanical Strength
The Chromel-Alumel alloy combination offers excellent resistance to mechanical shock and vibration. The wires are robust enough to withstand harsh industrial conditions, including exposure to heavy machinery, high-pressure environments, and physical abrasion.
Good Oxidation Resistance
In oxidizing atmospheres (e.g., air, oxygen-rich environments), Type K thermocouples exhibit remarkable stability and longevity. A protective oxide layer forms on the surface of the wires, preventing further corrosion and extending the sensor's lifespan.
Linear Output
Type K thermocouples provide a relatively linear voltage-temperature relationship, especially between 0°C and 1000°C. This simplifies signal processing and reduces the need for complex calibration curves in many applications.
Calibration and Maintenance
Calibration Methods
To ensure accurate temperature readings, Type K thermocouples should be calibrated regularly. Common calibration methods include:
- Fixed-Point Calibration:Using well-defined temperature points (e.g., freezing point of water at 0°C, boiling point of water at 100°C, melting point of zinc at 419.53°C) to verify the sensor's output.
- Comparison Calibration:Comparing the thermocouple's output to a reference standard (e.g., a calibrated platinum resistance thermometer) in a controlled temperature bath or furnace.
- In-Situ Calibration:Calibrating the thermocouple while it is installed in its operating environment, using portable calibration equipment.
Best Practices for Maintenance
- Inspect the thermocouple junction regularly for signs of corrosion, damage, or contamination.
- Ensure extension wires are of the correct type (Type K) to avoid introducing measurement errors.
- Minimize stress on the wires and junction to prevent mechanical failure.
- Store spare thermocouples in a dry, clean environment to avoid pre-installation contamination.
- Document calibration dates and results to track sensor performance over time.
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