Temperature Probe Definition What is the definition of a temperature probe? A temperature probe can be defined as a type of sensor which is used to measure temperature. A temperature probe works by monitoring the change in resistance of the given area: solid, liquid or gas and converting it into a usable format for the operator. A temperature probe measures temperature by being placed onto a surface, screwed or inserted into an object or submerged in liquid to monitor the temperature change. Because all applications are different, temperature probes are often bespoke and can be made to order, this way the temperature range, connection, cable length and other specifications can be modified to make them well suited to the application at hand Temperature Probe Types There are different types of temperature probes available NTC temperature probes – this type of temperature probe uses NTC thermistors (Negative Temperature Coefficient) which are often potted into differing bespoke housings dependent on customer requirements. NTC temperature probes are usually lower cost than other alternatives but they offer a quicker response time and are very sensitive. NTC temperature probes are usually the best choice for mid-range temperature applications from-40°C to +125°C for epoxy encapsulated NTCs and up to +250°C for our glass encapsulated NTC range. The application will determine the resistance value of the thermistor needed to create the required temperature output. RTD temperature probes – these temperature probes use RTD technology (Resistance Temperature Detector) which can also be potted into different housings dependent on customer requirement. Depending on which RTD is selected the temperature probe will be suitable for measuring different temperature ranges. RTD sensors are usually either Platinum or Nickle and are available in several resistance ranges, the more standard offerings inclusive of PT100/PT1000 or NI100/Ni1000. The specifics of the customer application will help to determine which type of RTD is required. RTD probes are good for measuring temperatures in more specific applications where temperatures are relatively higher than that of NTC thermistor capability up to +850°C. The higher temperature rating than that of NTC Thermistor technology can make them slightly more expensive than NTC probes, however, they are highly reliable and offer a longer life cycle Thermocouple probes – thermocouple temperature probes are lower cost than RTDs and NTCs but are not as stable over time. They too can be manufactured with bespoke probe housings according to customer-specific applications and can achieve temperature measurements over +2000°C. Uses for Temperature probes. Temperature probes are used across almost all industries; we often see demands in medical applications, motorsport industries, food and drink sectors and even in communication. Some of the applications we have come into contact with are: HVAC Transit Power and Utilities Drilling Home Appliances Energy Laboratory Computers Patient Monitoring Temperature Probes from Variohm We manufacture and distribute temperature probes worldwide. Our categories for temperature probes include Temperature probes RTD probes We also offer other types of temperature sensors NTC Thermistors Space Qualified Thermistors Digital Temperature Sensors Thermocouples Article published on: 08/11/2018 Article last updated on: 04/10/2022