PT100 sensors are the most common platinum resistance thermometers on the market due to their straightforward design, high accuracy, and linear temperature measurement capabilities. Commonly referred to as ‘Resistance Temperature Detectors (RTDs)’ or ‘Platinum Resistance Thermometers (PRTs)’, PT100 resistors are a reliable and well-established solution for temperature measurement.
As an updated and modified model of RTD, PT100 resistors often exceed the precision of traditional measurement techniques while providing greater versatility.
Platinum Makes Perfect
As a highly diverse and adaptable metal, platinum is used for temperature measurement due to its stability and lack of reactivity to the resistance-producing current that it comes into contact with. Its impervious nature to both corrosion and oxidation allows it to remain operational for longer without needing to be replaced.
Additionally, platinum is a relatively light composite that can be shaped and shaved down to small sizes, making it easier to connect to wires and sensors.
The Applicable Advantages of PT100 Resistors
As the latest, most modern resistance-based temperature monitoring sensor, PT100 resistors are quickly replacing previously popular sensors such as thermocouples. Resistance-dependent components provide increased flexibility across a wider range of applications.
Particularly in tasks involving lower overall temperatures, PT100 resistors have surpassed standard thermocouples due to their enhanced accuracy and regular repeatability. Although RTDs might incur somewhat higher production costs, this additional expense is warranted due to their enhanced usability and overall quality.
Further supporting the PT100 resistor’s campaign to be the world-renowned leading choice in the industrial thermometer market is its capability to gauge temperatures solely through current-based resistance. This eliminates the stress associated with setting up special cables or cold junction compensations and allows the monitoring of thermal activities to be conducted across a broader range of applications.
If the resistivity of the connecting cables is known, a 2-wire connection can be utilized whereas for precision measurements, a 4-wire connection is recommended. The measurement instrument will automatically compensate for the resistivity of the connection wires.
The Related Risks of PT100 Resistors
Since the components are designed to handle a broader range of temperature measurement applications, the technology used in the assembly of resistance thermometers is more susceptible to impact damage. The multifunctionality of PT100 resistors contributes to their fragility, necessitating careful handling during operation.
Allectra provides HV/UHV compatible PT100 sensors either as standalone units, with four radiation-resistant Kapton wires (301-KAPM), or as a complete component with wiring, an in-vacuum connector, and an optional multi-pin feedthrough. No specialized thermocouple connector pins are required.
This information has been sourced, reviewed and adapted from materials provided by Allectra Limited.
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