Thermocouple sensors are temperature sensors used to measure a wide range of temperatures in industrial, laboratory, and process environments. They operate by generating a voltage at the junction of two dissimilar metals, providing a robust and reliable method of temperature measurement across both low and high temperature ranges.
We manufacture a comprehensive range of thermocouple sensors in the UK, covering standard and application-specific constructions. Our range includes mineral insulated, general purpose, miniature, handheld, and specialist thermocouple sensors, with fast turnaround from one of the largest stocks in Europe.
Our thermocouple sensors are available from stock in Type K, J, T, N and other thermocouple types, offering consistent accuracy, proven reliability, and straightforward integration with industrial instrumentation, OEM systems, and test equipment.
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Browse our thermocouple sensor categories below:
Thermocouple Categories
FAQs
What temperature ranges are thermocouples suitable for?
Thermocouples are capable of operating over a very wide temperature range, depending on both the thermocouple type and the sheath material used. For example, noble metal thermocouples such as Type S can withstand extremely high temperatures (up to approximately 1600°C in suitable ceramic protection) and are commonly used in furnaces and kilns. In practice, the usable temperature range of a thermocouple is influenced by the sensor construction, sheath material and the environmental conditions it is exposed to. Find out more about
the temperature ranges for different types of thermocouples.
How accurate are thermocouples?
Thermocouples offer good accuracy across wide temperature ranges, although they are generally less accurate than RTD Pt100 sensors. Each thermocouple type has defined tolerance classes that specify allowable measurement deviation. These tolerances vary by type and temperature range. See our detailed tables showing
the accuracy of different thermocouples.
What is cold junction compensation?
Thermocouples measure temperature as a voltage difference relative to a reference junction, traditionally at 0°C. In modern systems, this reference is electronically compensated within the measuring instrument using cold junction compensation (CJC). Accurate CJC is essential for precise thermocouple measurement, particularly in industrial and laboratory applications. We have provided a detailed explanation of how
cold junction compensation works, including diagrams and schematics.
What are thermocouple colour codes?
Each thermocouple type (such as Type K, J or T) has a standard colour code used to identify the thermocouple via its cable insulation or connector body. Colour codes differ between international standards (IEC, ANSI, BS), so correct identification is important. We have provided a complete guide to
thermocouple colour codes here.
What is the response time of a thermocouple?
Thermocouples are known for their fast response to temperature changes, making them ideal for dynamic and rapidly changing processes. Response time depends on factors such as junction type, sheath diameter and installation conditions. We have tabulated
typical thermocouple response times across a range of constructions and conditions.