RTD calibrators verify and adjust the accuracy of resistance temperature detectors like PT100 and PT1000 sensors used throughout process manufacturing, HVAC, and industrial temperature monitoring. We stock electrical RTD simulators, dry block calibrators, and multifunction process calibrators that read and source RTD signals for field and bench calibration work. An RTD that drifts out of tolerance can throw off an entire process loop, so periodic calibration against a traceable reference keeps temperature readings, and the decisions made from them, accurate.

Electrical RTD calibrators test accuracy by sourcing a precise resistance value that simulates a sensor reading, letting you verify the receiving instrument without heating anything at all. Dry block calibrators take the opposite approach, heating or cooling a metal insert to a known stable temperature and inserting the actual RTD probe into it, testing the full sensor rather than just the downstream electronics. A close fit between the probe and the insert matters here, since poor heat transfer introduces error.

Types of RTD Calibrators

Electrical RTD simulators source a precise resistance value to test transmitters, controllers, and display instruments without a physical heat source, ideal for quick electronics-only verification. Dry block calibrators heat or cool a drilled metal insert to a stable temperature, testing the complete RTD probe under real thermal conditions in the field or lab. Liquid bath and micro-bath calibrators suit short, tri-clamp, or odd-sized sensors that don’t fit properly into a dry block insert. Multifunction process calibrators combine RTD sourcing and measurement with mA and mV capability, covering RTDs, thermocouples, and transmitters in a single handheld unit.

Common Applications

Process manufacturing temperature loop calibration
HVAC and building automation RTD verification
Laboratory and metrology traceable calibration
Field calibration of installed temperature sensors

Choosing the Right Calibrator

Match the calibrator to the sensor: dry blocks for standard probes with a good insert fit, liquid baths for short or oddly shaped sensors, and electrical simulators when only the downstream instrument needs checking rather than the full sensor.

Not sure which RTD calibrator fits your application? Contact our team — we can match calibrator type and range to your sensor and process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between an electrical RTD calibrator and a dry block calibrator?

An electrical calibrator sources a resistance value to test the instrument reading the RTD, while a dry block heats or cools an actual probe to a known temperature, testing the full sensor rather than just the electronics.

What are PT100 and PT1000 sensors?

PT100 and PT1000 are common platinum RTD types with a resistance of 100 or 1000 ohms at 0°C, and both are calibrated using the same electrical or dry block methods.

How often should an RTD be calibrated?

Calibration frequency depends on company policy, application criticality, and manufacturer recommendation, but sensors are typically checked at set intervals or whenever a process reading seems questionable.

Can a dry block calibrator also test thermocouples?

Yes, most dry block calibrators accept interchangeable inserts and probe modules that support thermocouples, thermistors, and PRTs in addition to RTDs.