When it comes to choosing the correct thermocouple cable you need to take into consideration the conditions of the environment into which it will be installed.
Which insulation Material? | usable temperature range | Application Note |
PVC | -10°C to 105°C | Good general-purpose insulation for “light” environments. Waterproof and very flexible. |
PFA (extruded) | -75°C to 250°C | Resistant to oils, acids other adverse agents and fluids. Good mechanical strength and flexibility. PTFE better for steam/elevated pressure environments |
PTFE (taped & wrapped) | -75°C to 250/300°C | Resistant to oils, acids other adverse agents and fluids. Good mechanical strength and flexibility. |
Glassfibre (varnished) | -60°C to 350/400°C | Good temperature range but will not prevent ingress of fluids. Fairly flexible but does not provide good mechanical protection. |
High temperature glass fibre | -60°C to 700°C | Will withstand temperature up to 700°C but will not prevent ingress of fluids. Fairly flexible, not good protection against physical disturbance. |
Ceramic Fibre | 0 to 1000°C | Will withstand high temperature, up to 1000°C. Will not protect against fluids or physical disturbance. |
Glassfibre | -60°C to 350/400°C | Good resistance to physical disturbance and high temperature (up to 400°C). Will not prevent ingress of fluids. |
For maximum accuracy extension cables should be used and terminals and connectors should be of thermocouple materials to maintain continuity.
In the below poll, please let us know which is your most common thermocouple cable used?
Please leave any comments /notes as to why you use the cable you have chosen.
