11/11/2013

Important Things To Consider About An RTD Probe

By Katrina Wheeler


RTD stands for resistance temperature detector, and is a type of thermometer that makes use of RTD elements in order to perform their function in heat detection. Such elements are usually made up of a thin wire that is tightly coiled around its glass or ceramic middle. They also require protection, as they are quite delicate, and are therefore often found within the sheathed RTD probe.

Nickel, copper and platinum are substances from which these components are constructed. The reason for the use of such materials is their reliable change in opposition to temperature fluctuations, and it is these differences that ultimately indicate temperatures. Resistance thermometers are now taking a stand in several industrial settings. This is especially the case when temperatures of under 600 degrees Celsius need to be measured.

Some comparisons can be made between thermocouples and resistance thermometers. The most notable is that the thermocouple is associated with the Seebeck effect, and is able to build voltage. Resistance thermometers need to be connected to power in order for them to work, and they utilize electrical resistance. Overall, they are more precise than thermocouples, and offer more stability. Callendar Van-Dusen equations plays a role here, and it is good if the resistance is just about linear to this temperature reference.

In order for a platinum detecting wire to remain stable, it should not be contaminated in any way. The avoidance of stresses that could cause it to greatly expand is necessary, and it should also be ensured that the wire is able to withstand reasonable degrees of vibrations. Platinum makes that are considered as commercial are manufactured with a certain temperature resistance coefficient, and there are also uses for assemblies constructed from copper and iron. A 100 resistance of naught degrees Celsius is often the case for platinum sensors.

The testing of a device may include the passing of a low current through it, which will in turn measure its resistance. Resistance thermometers are usually considered to be very accurate, provided that their maker's limits are taken into account, and resistive heating is averted. The design should also be able to correctly take into consideration the heat path. Furthermore, strain of a mechanical nature should be averted. RTDs are made out of resistant materials, such as platinum, copper, nickel, balco and tungsten. The last two mentioned are used less often.

RTDs that are regarded as conventional adhere to DIN-IEC Class B. They are very precise, and are therefore considered useful in terms of their function. Not only this, but they provide excellent repeatability and stability features.

Electrical noise does not affect the accuracy of RTDs, and they can therefore be used around industrial equipment. They are also very small, which can be a useful aspect. The simplest RTDs found are the RTD elements, which have ceramic or glass centers.

The temperature of flat surfaces can be measured by surface elements, because they are made slightly differently. The RTD probe is the strongest of RTDs. A metal tube, or sheath, protects the RTD element from its surroundings.




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