Key Characteristics of SC/RC Thermocouple Extension & Compensating Wire:
Type S (SC):
- Positive leg: Platinum-13% Rhodium.
- Negative leg: Pure Platinum.
Type R (RC):
- Positive leg: Platinum-13% Rhodium.
- Negative leg: Pure Platinum.
Both types are designed for high-temperature measurements, with SC and RC extension wires made from materials that mimic the thermoelectric properties of Type S and Type R thermocouples.
Type S: Operates typically between -50°C and 1768°C (-58°F to 3214°F).
Type R: Operates in the range of -50°C to 1768°C (-58°F to 3214°F).
The extension wires are designed to function in similar temperature ranges but may be limited at the extreme ends of these ranges.
- High Accuracy and Stability:
SC/RC thermocouples are known for their exceptional accuracy in high-temperature measurements and are frequently used in laboratory and metallurgical applications.
The extension wires are designed to replicate the voltage characteristics of the thermocouple to avoid measurement errors over long distances.
- Use of Compensating and Extension Wires:
Extension Wires: SC and RC extension wires are designed to extend the distance between the thermocouple probe and the measurement device while maintaining the thermoelectric properties of the original thermocouple wire.
Compensating Wires: These are used to compensate for the temperature effects on the wire, ensuring the accuracy of the measurement over long distances or under fluctuating ambient temperatures.
- Thermoelectric Characteristics:
The thermoelectric behavior of SC/RC wires closely matches the original thermocouple wire to avoid introducing measurement errors. Since the materials used are precious metals (Platinum and Rhodium), their stability and accuracy are maintained over a wide range of temperatures.
- Corrosion and Oxidation Resistance:
The platinum and rhodium materials used in Type S and Type R thermocouples, and their associated extension wires, provide high resistance to oxidation, even at elevated temperatures.
This makes SC/RC extension and compensating wires highly durable in harsh, high-temperature environments, ensuring long-term performance.
SC/RC thermocouple wires are typically insulated with materials such as ceramic, glass, or high-temperature-resistant Teflon to prevent damage from extreme temperatures while maintaining electrical integrity.
Platinum-based thermocouples (S and R) are more expensive compared to other thermocouples (such as Type K), and their extension and compensating wires are also more costly due to the high-value materials involved.
Summary of SC/RC Thermocouple Extension and Compensating Wires:
- Material: Platinum-13% Rhodium for the positive leg, Pure Platinum for the negative leg.
- Temperature Range: Typically from -50°C to 1768°C (-58°F to 3214°F).
- Application: Primarily used in high-accuracy, high-temperature measurement applications in industries like metallurgy, aerospace, and research laboratories.
- Extension and Compensating Wires: Ensure accurate and reliable temperature measurement by replicating the thermoelectric properties of the original thermocouple wires.
- Durability: High resistance to oxidation and corrosion, making them suitable for extreme conditions.
SC/RC thermocouple extension and compensating wires are ideal for situations that demand precision and high-temperature accuracy, especially in industries that require high-performance materials for temperature measurement.
