Temperature Sensor Basics

Temperature Sensors is one of our biggest product groups we have in our portfolio. There are so many different types of temperature sensors. This blog post will discuss the basics of each type that we offer.

Temperature Sensor Basics - Applications

Temperature sensors can be a vital part of an application. They will monitor the temperature to ensure devices can function correctly and safely.

Some of the applications temperature sensors are used for are more commonplace whereas others are very industrial. For the commonplace applications temperature sensors usually need to be small and sensitive whereas, in more industrial environments, the more desirable features are robustness and IP rated to protect them from ingress.

Some of the applications temperature sensors are used for are;

Home/Domestic Appliances – temperature sensors are used in appliances such as; toasters, kettles, ovens, washing machines, boilers, electrical radiators etc

Computing and IT – temperature sensors are used within most computers these are used to ensure the devices do not overheat.

Food and beverage – monitoring food temperature for food hygiene, food production devices including 3D printers etc.

Medical Devices and Applications – temperature sensors are used for patient monitoring as well as medical devices including ventilators, fluid temperature, gas analysis and more.  

Motorsport and Automotive Applications – temperature sensors are used for monitoring various aspects of the vehicle - fuel oil, exhaust gas temperature and more.

HVAC Applications – temperature sensors are used throughout many processes in HVAC

Transit – refrigerated lorries and vans use temperature sensors to monitor the cabin storage temperatures.

Industrial Applications - temperature sensors are used to monitor subassemblies within machinery in different industrial environments. This could range from hydraulic fluid temperature to stator windings on motors. This allows for predictive maintenance with a degree of automation, reducing downtime and increasing profitability.

Science, Laboratory and Testing – temperature sensors are used for autoclaves, soil temperature, solar thermal arrays etc

Temperature Sensor Basics – Different Types of Temperature

There are many different types of temperature sensors available within our portfolio. Some of the more popular ones we can offer include;

Temperature Probes – temperature probes are available with a variety of housings which allow for various connection options for the temperature probe.

At Variohm we have a range of standard probes as well as being able to manufacture custom designs.

NTC Thermistors – thermistors are very small temperature sensors. They are very sensitive and often used in everyday “white goods” which can be found around the home. They have a fast response time and are well suited to applications with small temperature ranges.

RTD Sensors – another small and sensitive temperature measuring device is an RTD sensor. They offer long term stability and offer high accuracy. There are different types of RTDs available, they are; Platinum RTDs, Nickle RTDs, Glass Wire Round RTDs.

Thermocouples – thermocouples are highly versatile temperature measuring devices. They are suitable for measuring very high temperatures – depending on which metals they contain. Some thermocouples can measure up to 1260°, however, thermocouples tend to be less reliable compared to NTC thermistors and RTDs.

Other types of temperature sensors within our portfolio

• Digital temperature sensors
• Housed temperature sensors
• Infrared temperature sensors
• High precision thermometers
• Combined pressure and temperature sensors

To find out more about the temperature sensors we offer take a look at our “types of temperature” PDF download.

Temperature measuring devices from Variohm

We have a wide range of temperature sensors which can all be viewed on our website.

For more information on any of our temperature sensors or any of the products in our portfolio please contact us.