A Resistance Temperature Detector (RTD) is a temperature sensing probe of finely wound platinum wire that displays a linear resistance increase for a corresponding temperature increase. RTDs are built on the principle that most metals have a positive charge in electrical resistance with a change in temperature. When quality control is of extreme importance, an RTD is unequalled for accuracy and repeatability. RTDs do not require cold junction compensation or special extension wire. RTDs are available in two different temperature ranges and leadwire types, the L Series and the M Series. All sheaths and tips are manufactured from 316 stainless steel for superior resistance to corrosion, abrasion, and deterioration.
2-Wire Configuration
A 2-wire configuration is a less accurate style of RTD assembly. The added lead wire resistance is not compensated for by the temperature controller or transmitter used to monitor the resistance of the RTD. This increased resistance will cause the display temperature to be higher than the actual temperature.
3-Wire Configuration
A 3-wire configuration is the most common configuration because it is both cost effective and accurate. The added lead wire resistance is calculated by the controller through the third wire of the RTD assembly. The leadwire resistance is then subtracted from the loop resistance and true resistance is found. Through this method, the controller or transmitter "compensates" the lead wire giving an accurate temperature display.
Armor & Spring Adjustable Depth RTDs
When quality control is of extreme importance, an RTD is unequalled for accuracy and repeatability. RTDs do not require cold junction compensation or special extension wire. Like the Adjustable Depth Thermocouples, Adjustable Depth RTDs easily adjust to any immersion depth. When rotated, a threaded locking cap moves up and down the tension spring to adjust the depth.
● RTDAO Series - constructed of wire wound platinum elements, 2-wire, single element is standard (3-wire and dual-element are available), with 8" spring and stainless steel overbraid.
● RTDAA Series - constructed of wire wound platinum elements, 2-wire, single element is standard (3-wire and dual-element are available), with flexible armor.
Click Here to View Part Number and Specifications for RTDAA Series Adjustable Depth Thermocouples
Click Here to View Part Number and Specifications for RTDAO Series Adjustable Depth Thermocouples
Fixed Bayonet RTDs
Fixed Bayonet RTDs are a fixed immersion RTD with compressible spring and locking cap. Bayonet RTDs are well suited for applications requiring longer immersion depths. The probe of the RTD is more rigid and provides a more positive contact in the deeper well. The compressible spring outer covering and its locking cap hold the probe securely in place. 90° bayonet RTDs are often selected for use where space is at a premium and the 90° bend allows for a tighter, neater installation. All bayonet RTDs have flexible extensions, ideal for connection to near or distant junction boxes.
● RTDBA Series - constructed of wire wound platinum elements, 20-gauge stranded fiberglass, 2-wire, single element is standard (3-wire and dual-element are available), with flexible armor.
● RTDBO Series - constructed of wire wound platinum elements, 20-gauge stranded fiberglass, 2-wire, single element is standard (3-wire and dual-element are available), with stainless steel overbraid.
Click Here to View Part Number and Specifications for RTDBA Series Adjustable Depth Thermocouples
Click Here to View Part Number and Specifications for RTDBO Series Adjustable Depth Thermocouples
Melt Bolt RTDs
Melt Bolt RTDs is used on extruders and injectino molding machines to directly measure the melt temperature of plastic as it moves down the barrel.
● RTDMB Series - constructed of wire wound platinum elements, 20-gauge stranded fiberglass, 2-wire, single element is standard (3-wire and dual-element are available), with flexible armor.
Click Here to View Part Number and Specifications for RTDMB Series Adjustable Depth Thermocouples
Rigid Tube RTDs
Rigid Tube RTDs have an adjustable attaching device that eliminates the need for an adapter. Compression RTDs allow for the final adjustment of immersion depth to be made at the time of installation. They are ideal for the monitoring of liquids or gases since they seal the process from the atmosphere.
● RTDCA Series - constructed of wire wound platinum elements, 20-gauge stranded fiberglass, 2-wire, single element is standard (3-wire and dual-element are available), with flexible armor.
● RTDCO Series - constructed of wire wound platinum elements, 20-gauge stranded fiberglass, 2-wire, single element is standard (3-wire and dual-element are available), with stainless steel overbraid.
Click Here to View Part Number and Specifications for RTDCA Series Adjustable Depth Thermocouples
Click Here to View Part Number and Specifications for RTDCO Series Adjustable Depth Thermocouples
Ring RTDs
Ring RTDs is a general purpose terperature sensor designed to suit applications where low profile, surface detection is required. Various ring sizes are available to measure the surface temperature of nozzles, extruder barrels, die heads, molds and many other applications..
● RTDRT Series - constructed of wire wound platinum elements, 20-gauge stranded fiberglass, 2-wire, single element is standard (3-wire and dual-element are available), with flexible armor.
Click Here to View Part Number and Specifications for RTDRT Series Adjustable Depth Thermocouples
Thread RTDs
Thread RTDs is generally used to measure the temperature of the nozzle of any injection molding machine. This style is not in direct contact with the molten plastic. Due to the relatively small size of this sensor, other general areas of use include mounting in bearings housing, sealing bars, heat plates, and other limited space applications.
● RTDTN Series - constructed of wire wound platinum elements, 20-gauge stranded fiberglass, 2-wire, single element is standard (3-wire and dual-element are available), with flexible armor.
Click Here to View Part Number and Specifications for RTDTN Series Adjustable Depth Thermocouples
Click Here for technical information about RTD's