Definition and general information
The Pt100 temperature sensor is widely used in industrial, scientific and technical applications. It measures temperature with great precision, thanks to a well-known physical property: the electrical resistance of platinum (chemical symbol: Pt) varies predictably with temperature.
The "100" in Pt100 means that the sensor has a resistance of 100 Ohms at 0°C. As the temperature rises, so does the resistance. By measuring this variation, it is possible to determine temperature with great reliability.
It can be rigid or deformable, and can be inserted or immersed in the medium to be measured. It is ideally suited to industrial applications between -50°C and 500°C, in the absence of strong vibrations. Standard measurement accuracy is +/- 0.3°C at 0°C.
Pt100 probes are widely used in various sectors (agri-food, environment, chemicals, etc.), for measuring temperatures of gases, liquids or solids.
They consist of a platinum sensing element mounted on an insulating support (ceramic or glass). This element is connected to 2, 3 or 4-wire conductors, depending on the level of precision required. The whole system is protected by a metal sheath that is resistant to mechanical, chemical or thermal conditions.
The probe is usually fitted with an output cable or protective case.
As an option, it can be fitted with a fastening device (flange, threaded fitting...) and sometimes also incorporates a temperature transmitter mounted in the probe head, which converts the resistance signal into an analog signal.
The probes are available in various diameters and lengths. They can be installed in demanding environments, such as the nuclear sector or explosive atmospheres, thanks to ATEX-certified models.
- Diameter from 2 to 8 mm
- Material stainless steel 316l or Inconel 600
- 2, 3, 4-wire or 2 x 3-wire, 2 x 4-wire installation
- Precision tolerances: Class A, Class B, 1/10 Class B
Applications
Pt100 sensors are used in a wide range of applications. Here are just a few examples:
Food industry
The food industry uses Pt100 probes for temperature control during cooking, pasteurization and cooling processes.
Chemistry and pharmaceuticals
In the chemical industry, Pt100 sensors are used for precise temperature control in reactors, where reactions can be highly exothermic or endothermic. They can be integrated into thermowells and are available in ATEX versions for use in potentially explosive areas.
Gas, Oil and Petrochemicals
In the Oil & Gas sector, Pt100 sensors are used to monitor temperatures in pipelines, separators, distillation columns or storage systems. They ensure process stability, prevent overheating and guarantee plant safety.
Industrial processes
In a plastics production plant, Pt100 sensors monitor the temperature of the heat exchangers used to cool the melt prior to molding. This ensures optimum solidification of the product and prevents defects caused by poorly regulated temperatures.
Technical data
Pt100 sensors consist of :
- An outer protective sheath with a diameter of 2 to 8 mm, in 316L or Inconel 600 stainless steel.
- Protective box with cable gland or connecting cable.
- Some models can be fitted with fixing devices such as threaded plugs, plates or flanges.
Further information
- Vulcanic offers ATEX-certified equipment for heating in potentially explosive atmospheres with "Ex ia" or "Ex d" protection.
- In addition to the wide range of finished products shown in our online catalog, Vulcanic is able to design custom-made equipment to meet your specific requirements (diameter, length, material, etc.).
Recommendations
Precautions for use
Check that the operating temperature range is compatible with that of the sensor.
Use instrumentation compatible with the type of probe mounting (2, 3 or 4-wire).
Installation and connection
Ensure good thermal contact between the probe and the surface or fluid to be measured.
For pressurized environments or aggressive fluids, mount the sensor in a thermowell to protect it and facilitate replacement without draining the circuit.
Please refer to the instruction manual for all recommendations relating to the equipment.
