Thermocouples are temperature sensors made from two dissimilar metal wires joined at a junction, generating a voltage proportional to temperature difference, used across industrial, laboratory, and process applications for their wide range and fast response. We stock thermocouples in multiple types, junction styles, and probe configurations.

Thermocouple Types

Type K thermocouples are the most widely used general-purpose type, covering a wide range up to approximately 1260°C with good accuracy and low cost. Type J thermocouples offer a narrower range but are well suited for older equipment and certain industrial applications. Type T thermocouples provide excellent accuracy at lower temperatures, common in refrigeration and cryogenic applications. Type N and other specialty types serve specific high-temperature or corrosive-environment applications where standard types fall short.

Junction Types

Grounded junction thermocouples have the junction welded directly to the probe sheath, providing faster response time but less electrical isolation. Ungrounded junction thermocouples isolate the junction from the sheath, offering better electrical noise immunity at the cost of slightly slower response. Exposed junction thermocouples provide the fastest response time but with the least physical protection, suited for air or gas temperature measurement rather than immersion.

Probe Style & Sheath Material

Probe styles range from simple bare-wire thermocouples for economical, general use up to armored, sheathed probes with stainless steel or inconel construction for harsh industrial environments, high-pressure applications, or corrosive media exposure.

Common Applications

Industrial process temperature monitoring
Furnace, kiln, and oven temperature control
HVAC and refrigeration diagnostics
Laboratory and calibration reference use
Food processing and safety temperature checks

Not sure which thermocouple fits your application? Contact our team — we can help match type, junction style, and probe construction to your specific requirement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What thermocouple type should I use?

Type K is the most common general-purpose choice for a wide temperature range. Type J suits certain industrial and legacy equipment, while Type T is preferred for lower-temperature and refrigeration applications requiring higher accuracy.

Should I choose a grounded or ungrounded junction?

Grounded junctions offer faster response time, while ungrounded junctions provide better electrical noise immunity — choose based on whether response speed or signal isolation is more important for your application.

What sheath material do I need?

Stainless steel sheaths handle most general industrial environments, while inconel or other specialty materials are needed for higher-temperature or more corrosive process conditions.

Do you provide calibration certificates for thermocouples?

Yes, select models are available with a NIST-traceable calibration certificate at the time of purchase. Look for the certification filter above or contact us for a custom calibration request.