Basic Principles
A thermocouple is a temperature sensor that consists of two different types of metal wires joined together at one end. When the junction of these two metals is heated or cooled, a voltage is created that can be correlated back to the temperature.
How It Works
The working principle is based on the Seebeck effect, discovered by Thomas Johann Seebeck in 1821. When two dissimilar metals are joined together and exposed to different temperatures, they generate a small electrical voltage.
Key Components
Hot Junction
The point where the two different metals are joined and exposed to the temperature being measured
Cold Junction
The reference point where the thermocouple wires connect to the measuring instrument
Extension Wires
Special wires that connect the thermocouple to the measuring instrument
Common Applications
- Industrial process control
- HVAC systems
- Food processing and storage
- Scientific research
- Automotive temperature monitoring
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Explore different types of thermocouples and their specific applications.
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