As a reference, please also visit our Knowledge Library at https://www.kayeinstruments.com/en/knowledge-library/whitepapers for more detailed information
A thermocouple is a highly reliable temperature-sensing device that measures temperature based on the thermoelectric (Seebeck) effect. It consists of two dissimilar metal wires joined at one end to form a measuring junction. When this junction experiences a temperature different from the other ends (the reference junction), a small voltage is generated that correlates directly to the temperature difference between the two ends.
How it works in simplified terms:
• Two dissimilar metals (e.g., copper and constantan in Type T TCs) are joined to form a thermal junction.
• When heated or cooled, the junction generates a millivolt-level signal
• That signal is interpreted by high-precision electronics (such as those in Kaye systems) to determine the exact temperature.
Key advantages for Thermocouples applications:
• Passive operation (no external power required)
• Fast response time and small sensor size
• Wide temperature range support as a function of the TC material combination (e.g., –200 °C to +600 °C)
• High durability in harsh environments (steam, vacuum, dry heat)
Kaye thermocouples meet stringent manufacturing and insulation standards (e.g., Teflon®, Kapton®, stainless steel sheathing), ensuring outstanding performance in critical validation applications.