FAQ about Industrial Thermocouples
In this section, we answer the most frequently asked questions about industrial thermocouples: types, temperature ranges, applications, and selection criteria. At Jemar Termometría, we manufacture and design custom thermocouples, taking into account temperature, atmosphere, vibration, immersion, and the actual process. The content is geared towards engineering, maintenance, and industrial processes.
What is an industrial thermocouple?
An industrial thermocouple is a temperature sensor designed to operate in demanding industrial environments, where high temperatures, vibrations, harsh atmospheres, or continuous thermal cycling are present. Unlike a standard thermocouple, an industrial thermocouple is selected and manufactured according to the specific process, taking into account the thermocouple type, sheath material, diameter, length, and mounting system. At Jemar, we manufacture custom industrial thermocouples to guarantee reading stability and a long service life under real-world operating conditions.
What type of thermocouple is used for high-temperature industrial furnaces?
For industrial furnaces operating above 1,100 °C, the use of type S or type B thermocouples is recommended, especially in continuous processes or those with severe thermal cycles. These thermocouples offer greater stability and less drift than base metal thermocouples. Depending on the furnace atmosphere and the type of thermal load, they are manufactured with a ceramic sheath or a special metal sheath. At Jemar Termometría, we manufacture these thermocouples, adapting the length, diameter, and mechanical protection to each industrial furnace.
What is the difference between a type K, J, S, and B thermocouple?
The difference between thermocouple types lies in their composition, temperature range, and stability. Type K is the most common in general industry, with a range up to approximately 1,100 °C. Type J is used in lower-temperature applications and offers good sensitivity but lower thermal resistance. Type S and Type B are used at high temperatures, exceeding 1,500 °C, and are notable for their long-term stability. The choice depends on the process, the atmosphere, and the actual operating temperature.
Why do so many thermocouples fail in industrial environments?
Most failures in industrial thermocouples are caused by incorrect selection of the thermocouple type or sheath material, not by the sensor itself. Factors such as vibration, thermal shock, corrosive atmospheres, or improper immersion lead to premature failure or unstable readings. Standard thermocouples are not designed for critical processes. At Jemar, we design custom industrial thermocouples to minimize these problems and extend the sensor's lifespan.
Which sheath is best for an industrial thermocouple?
There is no single thermocouple sheath suitable for all applications. Metal sheaths are used when mechanical strength and direct contact with the process are required, while ceramic sheaths are necessary at very high temperatures or in aggressive atmospheres. Materials such as Inconel 600, 253MA, or engineering ceramics are selected based on temperature, chemical environment, and mechanical conditions. An incorrect sheath selection drastically reduces the reliability of the thermocouple.
Is a standard thermocouple better than a custom-made thermocouple?
In demanding industrial applications, a custom-made thermocouple is always the most reliable option. Standard thermocouples don't account for the realities of the process: special mountings, non-standard lengths, vibrations, or thermal cycling. A custom thermocouple improves measurement stability, reduces unexpected downtime, and extends the sensor's lifespan. At Jemar Thermometry, we manufacture thermocouples precisely tailored to the customer's and process's needs.
What information is needed to manufacture a custom industrial thermocouple?
To manufacture a custom industrial thermocouple, it is necessary to know the type of process, the operating temperature, the atmosphere, the immersion length, the required diameter, the sheath material, and the mounting system. With this information, at Jemar we design the most suitable sensor to guarantee accuracy and reliability. This approach avoids common errors resulting from the use of generic solutions.
Every industrial process is different and requires a specific sensor. At Jemar Termometría, we manufacture custom industrial thermocouples for demanding applications.
