Module_ 5 Temperature and its measurements

Syllabus:

Concept of Heat, Temperature and its measurements,

Bimetallic thermometers, Platinum Resistance thermometers, Thermoelectric
thermometers , Negative Temperature Coefficient(NTC) Thermistors,
Factors for the selection of a thermometer for a particular use, Temperature
Range and Comparison of various thermometers. Calibration of PT-100 for
temperature measurement.

Introduction:

Heat plays a crucial role in engineering across various disciplines, influencing the
design, operation, and efficiency of systems and processes. Its significance spans
multiple areas, including thermodynamics, materials science, fluid dynamics, and
energy systems.

In thermodynamics, engineers study heat transfer to understand how energy

moves between systems. This knowledge is essential for designing efficient
engines, air conditioning systems, and power plants. Engineers use principles like
conduction, convection, and radiation to manage heat flow, ensuring systems
operate within safe temperature ranges and optimize performance. For example,
in mechanical engineering, heat is central to the operation of internal combustion
engines, where the conversion of heat energy into mechanical work drives
vehicles and machinery.

Materials science relies heavily on understanding heat treatment processes,

where heat is applied to modify the properties of materials. Engineers use this to
strengthen metals, enhance corrosion resistance, and improve material
performance in various applications, from aerospace components to medical
devices. Heat treatment allows for precision control of mechanical properties,
ensuring reliability and longevity.

In energy systems, heat is both a form of energy and a challenge to manage.

Engineers work to capture waste heat, increase energy efficiency, and innovate in
sustainable energy production. For instance, heat exchangers are used to transfer
heat between fluids, maximizing energy recovery in industrial processes or
reducing energy consumption in heating and cooling systems.

Finally, fluid dynamics engineers also study heat to optimize systems involving air
and liquid flows, such as HVAC (Heating Ventilation and Air conditioning System)
systems or cooling systems in electronics. Managing heat in these contexts
prevents overheating, ensures safety, and improves system longevity.

After Learning about significance of Heat measurement, learner must

understand that measurement of heat is one of the paramount interests in
Engineering. In this module we will concentrate on concept of heat, its
measurement tools and their development.

5.1 Concept of heat:

Definition of Heat: Heat is a form of energy that flows between objects or

systems due to a temperature difference. It always moves from a region of higher
temperature to a region of lower temperature. Heat is a transfer of energy at the
microscopic level, where the motion of molecules or atoms increases with
temperature. When molecules in a warmer object move faster, they transfer
some of their energy to slower-moving molecules in a cooler object when they
come into contact.

In your school days you must have studied about how the heat can be
transferred in three primary ways:

1. Conduction: This is the transfer of heat through direct contact between

molecules. It occurs in solids, where the particles are closely packed. When
one part of an object is heated, its molecules vibrate faster and pass energy
to neighboring molecules.

For example, a metal spoon becomes hot when placed in a cup of hot tea.

2. Convection: This involves the movement of heat through fluids (liquids and
gases). In this process, warmer, less dense regions of the fluid rise, while
cooler, denser regions sink, creating a circulation pattern.
 Example of convection is the (i) warm air circulating in a heated room or
the movement of water in a boiling pot (ii) Car radiators (iii) Air
conditioning systems (iv) sea and land breezes

3. Radiation: Heat transfer through electromagnetic waves, like infrared

radiation, does not require a medium (solid, liquid, or gas) to travel
through.

For Example The Sun’s energy reaches Earth through radiation, and this is
why we feel warmth from sunlight even if there is no air or material
between us and the Sun i.e. no medium required. Table 5.1 .1 represents
the difference for these three modes.

Table 5.1.1

Property Conduction Convection Radiation

Solids (but can also occur Liquids and Can occur in any
Medium
in liquids and gases) gases medium, including a vacuum
Direct transfer through Movement of fluid due to Transfer via
Mechanism
molecular contact temperature differences electromagnetic waves

Spoon heating up in hot Warm air rising from a Heat from the Sun reaching
Example
water heater Earth

By now you must have realized that there is a close relation between heat
and temperature still one must know that they are two distinct
parameters. Table 5.1.2 represents the differences.
 Table 5.1.2

Heat Temperature

It alludes to how much energy is present in a body. It alludes to the overall measure

of the intensity of heat.

SI unit is Joules SI unit Celsius, Fahrenheit and

Kelvin

Heat is the complete kinetic and potential energy It is the normal kinetic energy

that the atoms in an article contain. of the particles present in an

article.

It is measured by a calorimeter It is measured by a thermometer

It is represented as Q It is represented by T

5.2 Various units and their conversions for temperature :

Fahrenheit

The first precise temperature scales were Fahrenheit. Daniel Gabriel Fahrenheit, a
Polish-born Dutch physicist, introduced a mercury-based thermometer in the year
1714. According to The Royal Society of England, this was the world’s first known
practical and accurate thermometer. The unit in a Fahrenheit scale is expressed as
a number followed by °F, or simply F. The freezing point of water is 32, and the
boiling point is 212 on this scale.

Fahrenheit is used to measure temperature in only a few nations today.

Celsius

Celsius is a more scientific scale. A Swedish astronomer, Anders Celsius, is

credited with being the first to conduct and publish the scientific definition of an
international temperature scale through experiments.

In a proposal to the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences in 1742, Celsius proposed

a scale based on two fixed points: 0 (water’s freezing point) and 100 (water’s
boiling point). Celsius named his scale “Centigrade” at first, but an international
conference on weights and measures renamed it “Celsius” in honor of Anders
Celsius in 1948. It is a part of the metric system, and a unit in the Celsius scale is
expressed as a number followed by °C, or simply C.

Kelvin

For scientists, Kelvin is an absolute temperature that uses zero (0) as the
minimum fixed point. There is no temperature below zero on a Kelvin scale, also
referred to as the SI unit for temperature. In 1848, a British mathematician and
scientist, William Thomson, aka Lord Kelvin, proposed an absolute temperature
scale independent of the qualities of a substance like ice or the human body.

On the Kelvin scale, water freezes at 273.15 degrees Kelvin (0 degrees Celsius)
and boils at 373.15 degrees Kelvin (100 degrees Celsius). Scientists primarily use
the Kelvin scale, and a unit in this scale is expressed as a number followed by the
letter K.

Temperature Conversions

Temperature conversion from one scale to another is occasionally essential. Here

are formulas to convert temperatures from Kelvin degrees to Fahrenheit and
other scales, and vice versa:
 Celsius – Fahrenheit = T (°F) = 9/5 T (°C) + 32
 Fahrenheit – Celsius = T (°C) = 5/9 [T (°F) – 32]
 Celsius – Kelvin = T (K) = T (°C) + 273.15
 Kelvin – Celsius = T (°C) = T (K) − 273.15
 Fahrenheit – Kelvin = T (K)= 5/9 [T (°F) – 32] + 273.15

Kelvin – Fahrenheit = T (°F) = 9/5 [T (K) − 273.15] + 32

5.3 Bimetallic thermometer:

The bimetallic thermometer is an instrument designed to measure temperature

based on the principle of thermal expansion of different metals

Let’s examine its principle of operation.

The concept of the bimetallic thermometer emerged in the 19th century, in

parallel with advancements in thermodynamics and material science; using two
metals with differing thermal expansions offers a simple and reliable way to
measure temperature without the need for complex electronics. This aspect
makes the bimetallic thermometer an ideal tool in industrial settings, where
robustness and ease of use are crucial.

As the name suggests, the operation of bimetallic thermometers relies on the fact
that various metals have different coefficients of thermal expansion.

Thermal expansion is a physical phenomenon where a metal changes its

dimensions (length, area, or volume) in response to temperature changes; this
occurs because an increase in temperature provides thermal energy to the
metal’s particles, causing them to vibrate with greater intensity. As a result, the
average distance between particles increases, leading to a physical expansion of
the material; similarly, a decrease in temperature leads to the contraction of the
material. This process is thus reversible, meaning that the metal can return to its
original dimensions if the temperature returns to its initial value.

The change in dimensions due to temperature depends on various factors,

including the type of metal and its coefficient of thermal expansion, a numerical
measure that indicates how much a particular metal expands for each degree of
temperature increase; for example, given the same temperature difference and
initial length, aluminum expands twice as much as iron.

This phenomenon is exploited in the bimetallic strip, consisting of two strips of

different metals, welded together: one end of the strip is fixed, and the other end
is free. At room temperature, the two metals are of equal length, but when the
strip is heated, the aluminum elongates more than iron, causing the strip to bend.

In general, a material lengthens when heated and contracts when cooled: the
behavior is approximately symmetrical.

The bimetallic strip is highly sensitive to temperature variations; thus, it’s possible
to construct a thermometer by utilizing the difference in expansion of the two
metals.

Fig 5.2.1

In bimetallic thermometers, the two metal strips, usually steel and copper or steel
and brass, depending on the measurement range, are welded or bonded together
to form a spiral or a helical coil, which is placed inside the thermometer’s bulb.
One end is fixed to the tip of the bulb while the other end is connected to a
pointer, allowing the needle to move. When the temperature rises, the spiral
deforms, and the pointer moves along the graduated scale; when the
temperature decreases, the spiral returns to its original state, bringing the pointer
back to its initial position.

Advantages :

Since bimetallic thermometers use common metals and simple mechanical

technology, they are among the least expensive industrial thermometers
available. The versatility of the bimetallic thermometer is one of its greatest
strengths. Thanks to its simple structure and low cost, it’s used in a wide range of
applications. Additionally, its ease of installation and maintenance makes it a
popular choice for many companies seeking reliable and long-lasting solutions.
With its resistance to challenging conditions, such as extreme temperatures and
vibrations, the bimetallic thermometer is a robust and effective choice. Compared
to more complex thermometers requiring electronic components or external
power, the bimetallic thermometer offers a straightforward and traditional
method for measuring temperature. This makes it ideal even in situations where
using electronic devices isn’t feasible or practical .

Disadvantages :

Bimetallic thermometers, which use two different metals with different

coefficients of expansion to measure temperature, have some disadvantages.
Here are a few key drawbacks:

1. Limited Temperature Range: Bimetallic thermometers are typically suited

for moderate temperature ranges (usually -50°C to 500°C). They may not be
as effective or accurate at very high or very low temperatures.
2. Slow Response Time: Due to the mechanical nature of the thermometer,
the response time can be slower compared to other types like
thermocouples or RTDs. This makes them less suitable for applications
where rapid temperature changes need to be monitored.
3. Mechanical Wear and Tear: Over time, the mechanical components of a
bimetallic thermometer (such as the bimetallic strip and dial) can wear out
or become damaged, affecting accuracy and reliability.
4. Susceptibility to Vibrations: Vibrations or shocks can affect the movement
of the bimetallic strip, leading to inaccurate readings or mechanical failure.
 5. Accuracy Issues: While bimetallic thermometers are generally accurate,
they are not as precise as other types, such as digital thermometers or
thermocouples. Factors like the calibration of the device and the material
properties of the metals used can introduce errors.
6. Bulkiness: Bimetallic thermometers can be bulkier than electronic
alternatives, making them less convenient in applications where space is
limited.
7. Limited Precision: These thermometers might not offer high precision in
measurements compared to more modern and sophisticated methods like
digital sensors, especially in industrial or scientific applications.
8. Environmental Sensitivity: The performance of bimetallic thermometers
can be affected by environmental conditions such as humidity or corrosion,
which can cause the metals to expand or contract inaccurately.

5.4 Platinum Resistance thermometer:

Platinum Resistance Thermometer – The resistance of a conductor changes
when its temperature is changed. This property is used for measurement of
temperature. The Resistance Thermometer uses the change in electrical
resistance thermometer of conductor to determine the temperature.
The requirements of a conductor material to be used in these thermometers are:

1. The change in resistance of material per unit change in temperature must be as

large as possible.
2. The resistance of the material must have a continuous and stable relationship
with temperature.
The main section of a Resistance Thermometer is its sensing element. The
characteristics of the sensing element, determines the sensitivity and operating
temperature range of the instrument.

The sensing element may be any material that exhibits a relatively large
resistance change with the change in temperature. The material used should also
have stable characteristics, that is, neither its resistance nor its temperature
coefficient of resistance should undergo permanent change with use or age.

It is necessary to consider stability in order to maintain the calibration of a

resistance thermometer. The need for stability frequently limits the temperature
range over which the sensing element may be used.

Another desirable characteristics for a sensing element is a linear change in

resistance with change in temperature.

When the measured temperature is subjected to rapid variations, the speed with
which a resistive element responds to changes in temperature is important.
The smaller a given sensing element, less heat is required to raise its temperature,
the faster is its response.

Nickel and Copper are the metals most commonly used to measure temperature.
The resistivity of platinum tends to increase less rapidly at higher temperatures
than for other materials, hence it is a commonly used material for resistance
thermometers. The temperature range over which Platinum has stability is 260
°C-1100 °C. An industrial Platinum resistance thermometer is as shown in Fig.5.4.1
 Fig 5.4.1 Industrial Platinum Resistance thermometer

Fig 5.4.2 Platinum Resistance thermometer with Bridge circuit

The changes in resistance caused by changes in temperature as detected by a
Wheatstone’s bridge is shown in Fig.5.4.2

Hence, the temperature sensing element, which may be Nickel, Copper or

Platinum contained in a bulb or well, along with the balancing bridge, forms the
basic important components of a temperature measuring system based on this
principle.
The sensing element Rs is made of a material having a high temperature
coefficient, R1, R2 and R5 are made of resistance that are practically constant
under normal temperature changes.
When the sensing element is very near the bridge, and under balance conditions,
the following relationship holds good.

In normal practice, the sensing element is away from the indicator and the bridge,
and its leads have a resistance, say R3, R4.

When resistance Rs changes, the bridge balance is upset and

the galvanometer shows a deflection, which can be calibrated to give a suitable
temperature scale.
Advantages:
The measurement of temperature by the electrical resistance method has the
following advantages and characteristics.
1. The measurement is very accurate.
2. Indicators, recorders and controllers can also be operated.
3. More than one resistance element can be clubbed to the same indicating/
recording instrument.
4. The temperature resistance element can be easily installed and replaced.
5. The accuracy of the measuring circuit can be easily checked by substituting
a standard resistor for the resistive element.
6. Resistive elements can be used to measure differential temperature.
7. resistance thermometer working have a wide range without loss of accuracy,
and can be used for temperature ranges (-200°C-650°C)
8. They are best suited for remote sensing and indication.
9. The response time of the resistive element is 2-10 s.
10.The error of the resistive element is in the range of ± 0.25% of the scale
11.The size of the resistive element may be about 6-12 mm in diameter.
12.No necessity of temperature compensation.
13.Extremely accurate temperature sensing.
14.Performance stability over longer periods of time
Disadvantages:
1. High cost
2. Need for bridge and power source
3. Possibility of self heating.

5.5 Thermoelectric thermometer

This topic is divided between two similar effects (1) Seebeck effect and (2)
Peltier effect (Similar topics : Thomson effect, Joule’s effect are not the scope
of this book)

A thermoelectric thermometer works on the principle of the thermoelectric

effect, also known as the Seebeck effect popularly called thermocouple.

Statement of Seebeck effect: This effect occurs when two different metals are
joined at two points and there is a temperature difference between them. The
junctions of these metals generate a voltage that is proportional to the
temperature difference.

Fig 5.5.1Seebeck effect

In a thermocouple two dissimilar conductors (such as copper and iron) form a

closed loop, and one of the junctions is exposed to the temperature to be
measured while the other is kept at a reference temperature, usually at ice point.
The difference in temperature between the junctions results in a thermoelectric
potential difference (voltage) developing across the loop.
Thermo emf is given by

E = ∝(t-t0) + β( t2 – t02 ) ________(5.5.1)

Where

∝ , β are the constants

t = temperature under investigation, t0 is reference temperature

The voltage is then measured and converted to temperature using a calibration

curve.

The main advantage of thermocouples is that they provide accurate temperature

measurements over a wide range without moving parts, hence reliable and
precise readings in applications.

A similar concept is available in practice is through Peltier effect. Reader must

know it in details as well

The difference lies in their principle of operation and application. Here’s a

breakdown:

1. Thermocouple:

 Principle: A thermocouple is a sensor made of two different metals joined

at one end, known as the "junction." When the junction is heated or
cooled, a voltage is generated that is proportional to the temperature
difference between the junction and the other end of the metals. This is
called the Seebeck effect.
 Measurement: The voltage generated by the thermocouple is used to
measure temperature. The voltage is small and needs to be processed by a
suitable instrument to be converted into a temperature reading.
  Applications: Thermocouples are used in a wide range of temperature
measurements, from industrial furnaces to scientific experiments, due to
their ability to measure very high temperatures.
 Types: There are different types (e.g., Type K, Type J) based on the metals
used in the junction.

2. Thermoelectric Thermometer:

 Principle: A thermoelectric thermometer works on the Peltier effect, which

is the reverse of the Seebeck effect. When a current passes through a
junction of two different materials, heat is either absorbed or released at
the junction, depending on the direction of the current. This creates a
temperature difference that can be measured.
 Measurement: The thermometer uses the Peltier effect to monitor the
temperature. Typically, the system includes a sensor that measures the
difference in heat absorption or release to give an accurate temperature
reading.
 Applications: Thermoelectric thermometers are more commonly used in
applications where precise temperature control is needed, such as in
laboratories or in cooling systems. They are generally not used for the same
high-temperature ranges as thermocouples.

In short the difference can be described as:

 Working Principle: Thermocouples operate on the Seebeck effect (voltage

due to temperature difference), while thermoelectric thermometers work
on the Peltier effect (heat transfer due to current flow).
 Use Cases: Thermocouples are more versatile and used in a broad range of
temperatures, including very high temperatures. Thermoelectric
thermometers are often used for precise control and measurement of
temperature in controlled environments.
 Material Requirements: Thermocouples require two different metals,
whereas thermoelectric thermometers rely on semiconductor materials
(like bismuth telluride) for the Peltier effect.

5.6 Negative temperature Coefficient (NTC) Thermistors

 In lower classes, learners must have studied behavior of Resistance/ Resistivity
under temperature. A broad classification can be observed through a parameter
called Temperature coefficient denoted by “∝”.

The “alpha” (α) constant is known as the temperature coefficient of

resistance and symbolizes the resistance change factor per degree of
temperature change. Just as all materials have a certain specific resistance they
also change resistance according to temperature by certain amounts. For pure
metals, this coefficient is a positive number, meaning that
resistance increases with increasing temperature.
For the elements carbon, silicon, and germanium, this coefficient is a negative
number, meaning that resistance decreases with increasing temperature. For
some metal alloys, the temperature coefficient of resistance is very close to zero,
meaning that the resistance hardly changes at all with variations in temperature
(a good property if you want to build a precision resistor out of metal wire!).
NTC thermistors are an acronym for Negative Temperature Coefficient
thermistors. It was discovered in 1833 by Michael Faraday, who was researching
silver sulfide semiconductors, and commercialized by Samuel Reuben in the
1930s. Oxide semiconductor ceramics containing manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni),
cobalt (Co), etc.

NTC thermistors are used everywhere in our lives, and because of their resistance
characteristics that the resistance value decreases as the temperature rises, they
are used in temperature sensors such as thermometers and air conditioners, and
in temperature control devices such as smart phones, kettles, and irons. It is also
used as a current control for power supply equipment. In recent years, with the
electrification of automobiles, there has been a diversification of products for
automotive use.
NTC Chip thermistors are extensively used for accurate temperature
measurement and control in automobiles, medical field and electronic appliances.
NTC chip thermistors are suitable for temperature measurement in large variety
consumer electronics, such as washing machines, refrigerators, Microwave oven,
electric cookers, etc.

General metals have the characteristics that their resistance increases as the
temperature rises. This is because heat increases the vibration of the crystal
lattice and slows down the average moving speed of free electrons.

In contrast, in semiconductors, heat increases the number of free electrons and

holes. The resistance of semiconductors is become small because the ratio is
greater than the decrease in movement speed due to vibration of the crystal
lattice.

In addition, since semiconductors have a small energy band gap. Hence, when
heat is applied from the outside, electrons in the valence band move to the
conductor and conduct electricity. In other words, the resistance decreases as the
temperature rises.
In health care sector these are used as disposable thermometers. They have
accuracy as high as 0.10 C and have a fast response time of <5 s, which allows a
fast and simple measurement of a patient’s body temperature. Disposable
hypodermic needle sensors made using thermistors are especially critical during
open-heart surgery and also well-suited for cancer research and treatment

Positive Temp Coefficient Negative Temp coefficient

With increase in temperature , With increase in temperature ,
Resistance increases Resistance decreases
Metals exhibit this characteristics Semiconductors exhibit this
 characteristics
Reason :heat increases the vibration of Reason: due to small energy band gap,
the crystal lattice and slows down the when heat is applied from the outside,
average moving speed of free electrons electrons in the valence band move to
the conductor and conduct electricity

5.7 Factors for the selection of a thermometer for a particular use.

When selecting an industrial thermometer for a particular use, the requirements

are often more demanding due to environmental conditions, precision needs, and
system integration. Here are the key factors to consider:

1. Temperature Range

 Ensure the thermometer can handle the expected temperature range of

the process.
 Example: Steel manufacturing needs thermometers capable of
withstanding extremely high temperatures. Whereas for subzero or
cryogenic applications we deal with very low temperature to handle.

2. Accuracy and Precision

 Critical in process control.

 Small errors can cause product defects or equipment failure.
 Choose high-precision devices like RTDs or thermocouples if needed.

3. Type of Sensor

 Thermocouples: Wide range, durable, fast response — used in furnaces,

engines, etc.
 RTDs (Resistance Temperature Detectors): High accuracy and stability —
used in labs, process industries.
 Thermistors: Sensitive, best for narrow range and moderate temperatures.
  Infrared thermometers: Non-contact — ideal for moving parts, hot
surfaces, or hazardous areas.
 Bimetallic or liquid-in-glass: Mechanical, used where electronics aren’t
ideal.

4. Environmental Conditions

 Exposure to vibration, moisture, chemicals, or dust? Choose a rugged

design with appropriate IP rating or protective housing.
 High humidity or corrosive atmospheres may require special coatings or
enclosures.

5. Response Time

 Fast response is essential for dynamic processes or real-time monitoring.

 Thermocouples are preferred for fast reaction times.

6. Mounting and Installation

 Options: Threaded, flanged, welded, or portable probe.

 Must suit the mechanical setup and allow easy access for maintenance.

7. Power Requirements

 Some thermometers need external power; others (like thermocouples)

generate their own signal.
 For remote areas, battery-powered or passive sensors may be ideal.

8 . Calibration and Maintenance

 Should be easy to calibrate, with minimal drift over time.

 Consider the availability of in-situ calibration or replacement probes.

9. Cost and Lifespan

 Balance cost with durability, accuracy, and maintenance needs.

 For harsh or critical environments, investing in a higher-end model saves
costs long term.

5.8 Temperature Range and Comparison of various thermometers.

1. Thermocouples

Widely used in industrial settings for high-temperature applications.

Important features :

1. Wide temperature range (−200°C to +1800°C depending on type).

2. Fast response time – ideal for dynamic systems.
3. Durable and rugged – withstands vibration, corrosion, and high pressure.
4. Self-powered – does not require external power.
5. Moderate accuracy – lower than RTDs but sufficient for most processes.

Common Use: Furnaces, engines, metal processing, kilns.

2. Resistance Temperature Detectors (RTDs)

Known for accuracy and stability in temperature measurement.

Important features :

1. High accuracy and repeatability – better than thermocouples.

2. Limited temperature range (−200°C to +600°C typically).
3. Stable over time – less drift than thermocouples.
4. Slower response – due to their construction.
5. Requires excitation current – needs power supply.

Common Use: Laboratories, chemical plants, pharmaceuticals, food processing.

3. Infrared (IR) Thermometers

Used for non-contact temperature measurement.

Important Features :

1. Non-contact measurement – safe for high-heat or moving parts.

2. Fast response time – instantaneous readings.
3. Good for surface temperature – not suitable for internal temp.
4. Can be affected by emissivity – surface properties impact accuracy.
5. No process contamination – hygienic, no contact with materials.
Common Use: Electrical maintenance, HVAC, rotating machinery, food surface
monitoring.

4. Bimetallic Thermometers

Mechanical thermometer, often used in basic industrial setups.

Important Features:

1. No power required – completely mechanical.

2. Moderate accuracy – suitable for general-purpose applications.
3. Simple and cost-effective.
4. Durable construction – good for outdoor or rough environments.
5. Slower response – not suitable for fast-changing temps.

Common Use: Boilers, HVAC systems, pipelines, storage tanks.

5. Liquid-in-Glass Thermometers

Traditional thermometers using mercury or alcohol.

Important Features:

1. No external power needed.

2. Highly accurate within a limited range.
3. Fragile – glass construction can break easily.
4. Slow response time.
5. Mercury versions restricted due to environmental concerns.

Common Use: Calibration labs, simple storage areas, non-critical industrial

settings.

5.9Calibration of PT-100 for temperature measurement

PT 100 temperature sensors are the most common type of platinum resistance
thermometer. Often resistance thermometers are generally called Pt100
sensors, even though in reality they may not be the RTD Pt100 type. Pt refers
 to that the sensor is made from Platinum (Pt). 100 refers to that at 0°C the
sensor has a resistance of 100 ohms (Ω).

RTD PT100 temperature sensors operate based on the principle that the electrical
resistance of platinum changes predictably with temperature variations. As
temperature increases, the resistance of the platinum element also increases.
This change in resistance is measured accurately and converted into temperature
readings using appropriate algorithms or conversion tables.

What Is The Maximum Temperature Of Platinum RTD Device?

Platinum RTD (Resistance Temperature Detector) devices, particularly the

commonly used Pt100 type, have specific temperature ranges based on their
construction and intended application. The maximum temperature limit of a
platinum RTD can vary depending on the design and the materials used in its
construction.

RTD Maximum Temperature Range:

1. Standard Platinum RTDs (Pt100):

 Typically, standard Pt100 RTDs can operate up to
approximately 600°C (1112°F).
2. Industrial High-Temperature RTDs:
 Some industrial-grade platinum RTDs are designed to withstand
higher temperatures and can operate up to 850°C (1562°F).
3. Special High-Temperature RTDs:
  In specific configurations, especially with specialized sheathing and
insulation, some platinum RTDs can operate at temperatures up
to 1000°C (1832°F).

Calibration of Pt -100

Calibrating a temperature probe Pt 100 involves comparing its output

against a known standard over a range of temperatures. This process
typically requires specialized equipment such as temperature baths or
ovens to generate precise temperature conditions. The sensor’s readings
are then compared against the reference standards, and adjustments are
made if necessary to ensure accurate temperature measurement across the
desired range.