What color is the negative lead?

A. For American thermocouples, the negative lead is red.

  Can I bend the thermocouples?

A. Yes, the bending radius should be 2 times the probe diameter or larger.

  What is temperature rating on the probe?
(materials, type, diameter)

A. Various specs need to be considered when determining the temperature rating of a probe:

1. The useful range for the thermocouple type (i.e. J 0-750C).

2. The sheath material maximum operating temperature (i.e. Inconel vs stainless steel).

3. The de-rated upper temperature limit due to probe diameter.

4. The temperature rating of other components such as connectors, transition joints, and wire.

  What does grounded, ungrounded and exposed mean?

Grounded - The bead of the thermocouple is attached to the tip of the sheath giving a faster response than ungrounded types.

Exposed - The bead of the thermocouple is exposed. Recommended for air applications which need fast responses.

Ungrounded - The bead of the wire is set back slightly from the tip of the sheath and physically insulated by MgO powder. Thermocouple is electronically isolated from the sheath.

  Can I get any length other than 12", 18", 24"?

A. Many of the thermocouples we sell are available in any size. Change the length in the part number to the desired length. Pricing is typically stated as a $/in or $/foot adder.

  How do I wire my thermocouples for electrical noisy applications?

A. We recommend using an ungrounded thermocouple, typically low noise, in combination with twisted shielded thermocouple wire. We recommend grounding the system at only one location to lower the possibility of generating ground loops potentials.

  Can I twist/solder thermocouple wire to make my own thermocouples?

A. This can be done if necessary, but it is not recommended. The proper way to make a thermocouple is to weld the junction.

  Where is the temperature sensing done?

A. The temperature sensing is done at the bead. In the case of an Omegaclad probe, this is at the tip of the probe.

  What is the accuracy?

A. Each thermocouple type has a specific limit of error. The accuracy will be different for the various types of thermocouples available.

  How do I mount my thermocouple
(epoxies, compr. fitting, etc.)?

A. Mounting thermocouples is very application dependent. We sell compression fittings which can be used with probes to help with mounting. We also sell various epoxies, heat transfer compounds, and specialized thermocouples to meet numerous applications. Consult with our engineers regarding any specialized applications.

  What size spools do you offer for thermocouple wire?

A. The available sizes are:
25, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 foot spools.

  Can I use copper wire to extend my thermocouples?

A. No, you must maintain the same dissimilar metals to the instrument. The B type thermocouple is the only one that can be extended with copper wire.