Resistance Temperature Detector (RTD)

A Resistance Temperature Detector (RTD) is a temperature sensor that measures temperature by correlating the
resistance of the sensor element with temperature. RTDs typically use pure platinum as the sensing element due to
its stable and repeatable resistance-temperature relationship.

Key Points:

  • Working Principle: The resistance of the RTD changes with temperature; specifically, it increases as the
    temperature rises. This change in resistance can be measured and converted into a temperature reading.
  • Applications: Widely used in industrial, HVAC, and laboratory applications for precise temperature
    measurement and control.

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Description

RTDs are favored in many applications due to their sensitivity, accuracy, and ability to perform well over time and
across varying environmental conditions.

Types:

  • Common RTD Types:
    • PT100: Platinum, 100 ohms at 0°C
    • PT1000: Platinum, 1000 ohms at 0°C
    • Other metals: Nickel (Ni100, Ni1000) and copper options exist but are less common.

Temperature Range:

  • Standard Ranges:
    • PT100: Typically -200°C to +850°C (-328°F to +1562°F)
    • PT1000: Typically -200°C to +850°C (-328°F to +1562°F)
    • Other types may have different ranges depending on the metal used.

Accuracy:

  • Typical Accuracy: ±0.1°C to ±0.5°C, depending on the class (e.g., Class A, B) and calibration standards (e.g.,
    IEC 60751).
  • Calibration: Available in various calibration classes, with Class A being more accurate than Class B

Wire Specifications:

  • Resistance: Common nominal resistances include 100 ohms (PT100) and 1000 ohms (PT1000) at 0°C.
  • Lead Wire Configuration: Available in 2-wire, 3-wire, or 4-wire configurations:
    • 2-Wire: Simple but less accurate due to lead wire resistance.
    • 3-Wire: Compensates for lead wire resistance, improving accuracy.
    • 4-Wire: Best for precision measurements, completely eliminating lead resistance effects.

Temperature Coefficient:

  • Temperature Coefficient: Typically, around 0.00385 ohms/ohm/°C for PT100 (standard) and 0.00392 ohms/
    ohm/°C for PT1000.

Response Time:

  • Typical Response Times: Varies based on construction and installation, typically in the range of 1 to 20
    seconds.

Environmental Protection:

  • Construction Materials: Usually made from stainless steel, glass, or ceramic.
  • Protection Tubes: Often housed in protective sheaths for harsh environments, made from materials like
    Inconel or ceramic.
  • Industries: Widely used in HVAC, industrial processes, food processing, aerospace, and research
    applications.

Additional Features:

  • Self-Heating: Care should be taken with high current applications to avoid self-heating effects that can
    alter readings.
  • Mounting Options: Available with various mounting styles, including threaded, flange, or insertion types.

When selecting an RTD, it’s essential to consider the specific requirements of your application, including
temperature range, accuracy, and environmental conditions

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