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What is a Temperature Probe?

A temperature probe is a specialised device used for measuring and monitoring the temperature of fluids, gases and surfaces in various environments across industry. They are designed to accurately sense and convert thermal energy into a readable signal, providing information about temperature changes in a specific location or substance.

These probes come in various types, each using a different method to measure temperature variations. Common types of temperature probe include thermocouples, resistance temperature detectors (RTDs) like Pt100 sensors, thermistors, and infrared thermometers. They differ in the way they measure the temperature, the operating range they cover, their accuracy, and their suitability for different applications.

Typically, a temperature probe consists of a sensing element that reacts to temperature changes, housed within a protective sheath to shield it from external factors such as moisture, chemicals, or physical damage. They often feature connectors or interfaces like transmitters for integration with temperature measuring instruments, data loggers, or control systems, enabling real-time monitoring and analysis of temperature data.

These temperature probes find wide application uses across many industries, such as healthcare, food processing, manufacturing, aerospace, and scientific research. They are crucial for maintaining optimal conditions, ensuring product quality, safety, and efficient operation within different processes and environments.

Types of Temperature Probe

Thermocouples

These probes rely on the principle of a thermoelectric effect, generating a small voltage which is proportional to temperature differences at the junction of two dissimilar metals. They are well suited to extreme temperatures and harsh environments due to their robustness and versatility. Find out more about how a thermocouple works.

RTDs (Resistance Temperature Detectors)

Usually Pt100, these sensors make use of the resistance vs. temperature relationship of platinum. As temperature changes, the sensor's resistance changes proportionately, providing highly accurate and stable readings within defined temperature ranges. Find out more about how an RTD works.

Thermistors

These sensors also rely on a change in electrical resistance with temperature variations. Thermistors are highly sensitive to temperature changes, but have a limited temperature range compared to other probes.

Infrared Thermometers

Measuring without physical contact, these probes detect the infrared radiation emitted by an object to determine its temperature. They are invaluable in applications where non-invasive or non-contact temperature measurement is required.

Is a temperature probe better than a thermometer?

Temperature probes such as the thermocouples and RTDs mentioned above are available in a wide variety of styles and constructions suited to almost any temperature measurement application. They offer high accuracy and versatility in terms of connection and integration with display, control and monitoring equipment and can be tailored for various industries and applications, providing detailed temperature data that might be crucial for quality control, process optimization, or research purposes.

Thermometers, such as Infrared Thermometers are ideally suited for on-the-spot measurements. They are portable, convenient and easy to use.

Comparing Thermocouples, RTDs, Infrared and Bimetallic Thermometers

Feature Thermocouples RTDs Infrared
Thermometers
DesignTwo dissimilar metal wires enclosed within a protective sheath Platinum element encased in a protective tubeOptical system within a protective housing
Temperature RangeWide range, suitable for extreme temperaturesPrecise within moderate rangesSurface temperature measurement
AccuracyGood, slightly lower compared to RTDsHigh accuracy within specified rangeMay have limitations compared to contact-based sensors
ApplicationsIndustrial settings with extreme conditionsLaboratory, HVAC, precise industrial processesNon-contact surface measurements
AdvantagesRobust, wide temperature rangeHigh accuracy, stabilityNon-contact, rapid readings
LimitationsSlightly lower accuracy compared to RTDsLimited temperature rangeLimited to surface temperature

We specialise in the design of thermocouples, RTD Pt100 sensors, infrared thermometers designed to meet your specific application needs. From surface RTDs or robust mineral insulated thermocouple probes to high temperature ceramic sheathed sensors, our engineers are available on 01895 252222 or via the Live Chat to assist you with design advice.

Need advice on choosing a temperature probe?

Contact one of our experienced engineers on
01895 252222 or use the Live Chat button.

Custom built thermocouple probes
Custom built RTD Probes

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Thermocouple Sensors
Mineral Insulated Thermocouples
Thermocouples with Mini Plug
Thermocouples with Terminal Head
Thermocouples with Cable
High Temperature Thermocouples
General Purpose Thermocouples
ATEX/IECex Thermocouple Sensors
Ceramic Thermocouple Sensors
Fast Response Thermocouple Sensors
Autoclave Thermocouple Sensors
Surface Measurement Thermocouple Sensors
FEP Insulated Thermocouple

Platinum Resistance Thermometers
Mineral Insulated RTD Pt100 Sensors
Rigid Stem RTD Pt100 Sensors
Hand Held RTD Pt100 Sensors
Surface Measurement RTD Pt100 Sensors
RTD Pt100 Sensors with Cable
RTD Pt100 Sensors with Mini Plug
Autoclave RTD Pt100 Sensors
RTD Pt100 with Terminal Head
ATEX/IECex Platinum Resistance Thermometers
Fast Response RTD Pt100 Sensors
Air Temperature RTD Pt100 Sensors
Magnetic RTD Pt100 Sensors
Cable
PVC Single Pair Thermocouple Cable
PFA Single Pair Thermocouple Cable
Fibreglass Single Pair Thermocouple Cable
PVC Multipair Thermocouple Cable
PFA Multipair Thermocouple Cable
Fibreglass Multipair Thermocouple Cable
PVC RTD Pt100 Cable
PFA RTD Pt100 Cable
Fibreglass RTD Pt100 Cable

Miniature Thermocouple Connectors
Mini Thermocouple Connectors – 220ºC Rated
Mini Thermocouple Connectors – 350ºC Rated
Mini Thermocouple Connectors – 650ºC Rated
Mini Thermocouple Connector Accessories
Mini Thermocouple Connector Panels
Mini Three Pin Connectors

Standard Thermocouple Connectors
Standard Thermocouple Connectors – 220ºC
Standard Thermocouple Connectors – 350ºC Rated
Standard Thermocouple Connectors – 650ºC Rated
Standard Thermocouple Connector Accessories
Standard Thermocouple Connector Panels
Standard Three Pin Connectors
Instrumentation
Hand Held Indicators
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Temperature Transmitters
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Temperature Programmers
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Dry Block Calibrator
Temperature Dataloggers

Temperature Accessories
Compression Fittings
Pressure and Vacuum Feedthroughs
ATEX/IECEx Compression Fittings

Calibration
UKAS Calibration Services

Pressure
Pressure Gauges
Pressure Transmitters


© 1998- TC Ltd., P.O. Box 130, UXBRIDGE, UB8 2YS, United Kingdom
Tel.: 01895 252222, Email: info@tc.co.uk
© 1998- TC Ltd., P.O. Box 130, UXBRIDGE, UB8 2YS, United Kingdom
Tel.: 01895252222, Email: info@tc.co.uk