A thermocouple is equipment used in the measurement of temperature under different conditions. It is used in industries as well by some scientist in their studies. There are various thermocouple types that are commonly recognized and used.
The advantage with thermocouples is that, unlike other temperature measurement equipments used, thermocouples generate their own power and do not need any external form of excitation for them to function. They are employed in wide ranges of temperatures. These devices are also applied in the conversion of temperature gradients to generate electricity. Thermocouples are therefore very useful in different areas where the measurement and control of temperatures are needed.
The most common types are J, K, T, B, S, R and E. Each thermocouple is made up of two conductors of different materials generally metal alloys. The metal alloys produce electrical energy in the area where the two conductors are in contact. This point of contact is where one gets to measure the temperature and also the voltage released due to contact of the two conductors. Thermocouples are used as temperature sensors which help in temperature control and measurement.
Type R, S and B are seen as the most stable equipments. The three have a lower sensitivity in comparison to the rest. The three are made up of platinum rhodium alloy or just platinum alloy in each conductor. Their cost is high and therefore not used regularly except in cases of extreme temperature levels. Typ...