Contact temperature sensor measure is identified as temperature sensors that must be in physical contact with an object that is being sensed and it uses conduction to evaluate any types of changes taking place in the temperature. The contact type sensors can be extremely useful to determine a wide range of temperatures of solid and liquid materials along with gases. In this article we would discuss what could be the main usage of these sensors and different types of sensors that are available in the market.
What are some of the different variants of contact type sensors?
One of the main benefits of the contact type sensors is that these are self-regulating devices that can detect temperature accurately even if there is no heat transmission between the sensor and the object to which the sensor is attached. However, mistakes could also happen particularly when trying to detect the exact temperature of a moving surface or measuring the surface itself. In that context, choosing the right contact type sensors is the most appropriate choice as several different kinds of touch sensors could be used for a job depending on the particular use.
Contact type sensors for temperature detection
Here are some of the contact type sensors that can be used for temperature detection:
1. Thermocouples
This kind of contact sensor is very adaptable and helpful. They feature standardised connectors, are reasonably priced, and are simple to replace. Their measurement is of the difference in temperature between two places, not the absolute value. The thermocouple frequently has a cold junction built in to give a predetermined, known temperature as a point of reference. The low precision of thermocouples is one of their drawbacks, though. Within each subgroup of thermocouples, there are numerous varieties and a wide range of uses.
2. Thermistors
These contact type sensors are sort of resistor whose resistance is proportionate to its temperature and because of that the name of this sensor is accurate to describe the device. They can be used as self-regulating heating devices as well along with its actual application which is mainly as a temperature sensor. This contact type sensor is known to be of two different kinds such as Positors, also known as positive temperature coefficients, and negative temperature coefficient thermistors. The thermistor will be defined as positor if the resistance rises along with the increase in temperature. On the other hand, the thermistor is considered to have a negative temperature coefficient if its resistance reduces as the temperature rises.
3. Resistance Temperature Detectors
In industrial applications, resistor-thermistors (RTDs) are frequently used in place of thermistors and thermocouples because of their similar operation and metal construction mostly made up of platinum. However, iron and copper are also occasionally employed in lieu of ceramic or polymer. They are quite accurate and stable, and they require an electrical power source to run. They can also be used for specific purposes and have a broad working range.
Usage and benefits of the contact type sensors
Temperature sensors are an essential component of modern, pleasant living, even if we might not realise it. Frequently, extremely sensitive temperature and humidity sensors that process data and then send it to the right system regulate how we heat and cool our homes, cars, and workplaces. However, it is safe to mention that not all temperature sensors function in the same way, as do the majority of sensors.
Using electronic contact type sensors to measure temperature has the benefit of being able to detect even the minute changes visible in the temperature. The key to measuring temperature accurately is choosing the right thermometer for the job based on the pros and cons they have. In that case, the touch temperature sensors leverage conduction to measure temperature changes and depend on making physical touch with an object. On the other hand, the non-contact sensors use optical analysis of infrared radiation to detect temperature changes without having to be in physical contact with the said object.
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