ASSIGNMENT 2
ASSIGNMENT 2
Mechatronics
Section 2
Assignment II
Thermocouple
Definition:
A thermocouple is a temperature sensor that operates on the principle of the See-beck effect. It
is a device composed of two dissimilar metal wires joined at one end, known as the sensing
junction. Thermocouples are widely used for temperature measurement in various industrial,
scientific, and commercial applications.
Working Principle:
The working principle of a thermocouple is based on the Seebeck effect, which states that when
two dissimilar metals are connected at two different temperatures, a voltage is generated
across the junction. This voltage is directly proportional to the temperature difference between
the hot and cold junctions.
Function:
Thermocouples serve several functions in temperature measurement and control:
Temperature Sensing: The primary function of a thermocouple is to measure temperature
accurately. By connecting the two junctions of the thermocouple to the hot and cold regions
being measured, the voltage generated is in direct proportion to the temperature difference.
This voltage can be converted into a temperature reading using calibration data.
Wide Temperature Range: Thermocouples are known for their wide temperature range
capabilities. Different types of thermocouples, such as Type K, Type J, and Type T, can measure
temperatures ranging from -200°C to over 2000°C. This wide range makes them suitable for
applications in extreme temperature environments.
RTD
Definition:
An RTD is a type of temperature sensor that changes resistance as it is exposed to changes in
temperature. It is widely used for precise temperature measurement in industrial and scientific
applications where accuracy and stability are critical.
Working Principle:
The working principle of an RTD is based on the relationship between temperature and the
electrical resistance of certain metals. RTDs commonly use platinum wire as the sensing
element due to its high temperature stability and linearity. The resistance of the platinum wire
increases linearly with temperature, following a well-defined relationship known as the
Callendar-Van Dusen equation
Function:
RTDs serve several functions in temperature measurement and control:
Temperature Sensing: The primary function of an RTD is to measure temperature accurately.
The change in resistance of the platinum wire with temperature is directly proportional and
predictable, allowing for precise temperature readings. RTDs offer high accuracy and are
commonly used in applications where precise temperature control is required.
High Accuracy and Linearity: RTDs provide excellent accuracy and linearity across a wide
temperature range. The relationship between resistance and temperature for platinum RTDs is
well-established and standardized, allowing for precise and repeatable measurement.
Temperature sensor
A temperature sensor is an electronic device that measures the temperature of its environment
and converts the input data into electronic data to record, monitor, or signal temperature
changes. There are many different types of temperature sensors. Some temperature sensors
require direct contact with the physical object that is being monitored (contact temperature
sensors), while others indirectly measure the temperature of an object (non-contact
temperature sensors). Working Principle:
The working principle of a temperature sensor varies depending on its specific type. However,
most temperature sensors operate based on the physical properties of materials that are
affected by temperature changes.