Thermocouple GRADE Wire is recommended for measuring process temperature. This wire is available in standard limits ±2°C or Special Limits ±1°C. Most wire in this section is Standard. Please contact a Thermal Advisor to request Special Limits.
Things to remember when working with “K” Thermocouple Wire. Remember RED is always negative.
Do not mis-match other thermocouple calibrations ( ie: J, T, E, etc...) to thermocouple plugs and jacks. This creates serious thermocouple error. Remember to match the color codes Yellow to Yellow "+" and Red to Red "–"
Type “K” Temperature Range is published showing the Maximum Temperature of 2,000+°F / 1100+°C. Keep in mind the temperature rating is based on using 8 gauge wire. If using small gauges the temperature rating will decrease.
If connecting wire to miniature thermocouple plugs and jacks it's easier to attach 24 ga or smaller wires and use a cable clamp to prevent shorting of the wires inside the connector.
If using standard size thermocouple plugs and jacks make sure to use a cable clamp to secure the wire to the plug or jack. Additionally this will help stop the wires from twisting and shorting inside the connector. When that happens you have created a new thermocouple junction and this means your instrument will read ambient temperature and not the process temperature.
When measuring temperature below 500°F/ 250°C its best to use Teflon Jacketed wire. Because its easier to strip and abrasion resistant.
When measuring temperature above 500°F / 250°C it best to use Fiberglass Jacketed Wire. It is not much fun to strip but, can survive temperatures up to 900°F/ 500°C. However, Fiberglass will begin to fray and fall apart above 900°F if this is the case you should seriously consider using SSOB ( Stainless Steel Over-Baid ) This will hold the fiberglass together.
Our thermocouple wire web pages contain important information as to “how far” thermocouple wire can be run before using amplification.
More Questions…..? Please call a TIPTEMP Thermal advisor. 1-800-TIP-TEMP
