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Technical article

RTD or thermocouple: choosing a temperature sensor

A practical comparison of accuracy, range, speed and robustness.

INSTRAVATECHNICAL ARTICLEFICTIONAL DEMO DOCUMENTDS-FL-210-ARTD or thermocouple:choosing atemperature sensor

Accuracy and stability

A platinum RTD is more accurate and far more stable than a thermocouple. For most process work below 600 °C it is the right choice.

Range and speed

Thermocouples cover a much wider range, above 1,000 °C, and respond faster because of their small mass. They suit furnaces, flue gas and exhaust.

Signal conditioning

Either type should be converted to a digital value close to the sensor. A head-mount transmitter removes lead-wire errors and adds sensor diagnostics.

Accuracy and stability

A platinum RTD is more accurate and far more stable than a thermocouple. For most process work below 600 °C it is the right choice.

Range and speed

Thermocouples cover a much wider range, above 1,000 °C, and respond faster because of their small mass. They suit furnaces, flue gas and exhaust.

Signal conditioning

Either type should be converted to a digital value close to the sensor. A head-mount transmitter removes lead-wire errors and adds sensor diagnostics.

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