Calibrating and testing thermocouple sensors
Thermocouples are common in industry because they are inexpensive and cover a wide temperature range. They should be tested during commissioning and again when removed from a process to verify that tolerances were met. Additionally, thermocouples may be tested at regular calibration intervals and when suspected of failing to meet their performance specifications. Often thermocouples need to be calibrated prior to use for mapping a temperature controlled enclosure, or they have to be calibrated for use as a temperature standard. Due to the unique characteristics of thermocouples, they are best calibrated in situ (in place) by comparison to a temperature standard. However, in situations where that is not practical, it is necessary to remove the thermocouple and place it in a precision temperature source such as a dry-well.
Suggested test tools
Fluke Calibration 9144 Field MetrologyWell See pg 23
Fluke Calibration 9100S Handheld Dry-Well See pg 22
Fluke Calibration 9150 Thermocouple Furnace See pg 23
Fluke Calibration 6102 Micro-Bath Thermometer
Calibrator See pg 24
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Temperature Applications
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