Thermocouple cable plays a vital role in many industrial applications in measuring the temperatures. The thermocouple cables are preferred as they provide accurate results even at complicated applications. These wires are used to make the thermocouple elements that are combined together to form thermocouple probes.
Since there are a plethora of options in the thermocouple wires it becomes difficult to find the right one for you. You have to consider several factors while selecting the thermocouple cables. Otherwise, it leads to damage, corrosion, aging and less accuracy. Read this article to know about the factors that are to be considered in choosing the right cables.
Factors to be considered while buying the thermocouple cables
Find out the application of the cable
First of all, you have to determine where you are going to utilize the thermocouple cables. This is because you have to choose the right one based on the industry and its application.
Color-codes of the Cable
Generally, the thermocouple cable can be identified with its color code on the insulation. The red wire denotes the negative and positive is identified with the color code. It varies in accordance with the type of thermocouple that you select.
Determine the Temperature
While looking for the thermocouple cables you have to analyze the temperature range that you will be measuring with it. When you know the temperature range, you can make use of the temperature chart to pick the right cable that suits your need. Here are some of the major types in thermocouple cables,
Type T: It is ideal for cryogenic temperature
Type N: It gets less drift at a higher temperature
Type J: It offers cost-effective calibration up to a certain limit
Type E: It is used in cold temperature
Type K: It is an affordable cable
Size and Shape Matters More
Measure the length of the Cable
The length of the cable has a great impact on loop resistance and prevents the electrical noise that occurs. However, the resistance of the wire depends on the type of materials.
The diameter of the Cable
As diameter has a vital role in determining the response time of the thermocouple element, you should focus more on it.
The thickness of the Cable
You can select either the numerical gauge or AWG thickness thermocouple cable according to your need.
Select based on the Response time
There are three types of the junction in the thermocouple cables; grounded, ungrounded, and exposed. An exposed wire provide a faster response time whereas the ungrounded cable delivers the slowest response time. So, you can select the cable depending on the response time that you want to have.
Look for more features
In addition to the above-said factors, you can include additional features like chemical, vibration, and abrasion resistance. For an instance, the grounded or ungrounded thermocouple cables are best for high-pressure and corrosive environments.
Thus, these major factors are to be considered while buying the thermocouple cables. Make use of these guidelines and opt out the right one that comes within your budget.
