FAQ

  • What type of temperature sensor should I use for my application?

    It is dependent on two factors:
    1. Whether you are currently using any process control devices;
      If you currently have process control system in place, the devices you are using will dictate the type of sensor you need.
    2. Whether you are building a new process control system;
      If you are establishing a new control system, then we suggest using a 100 ohm platinum RTD, due to its availability, as well as wide variety of controlling and monitoring devices designed for this type of sensor in the marketplace.
  • What is the advantage between using three leadwire and two leadwire?
    • Leadwires distort the resistance and thus temperature readings. The longer the leadwires the more they over read the resistance and thus will give you higher temperature reading then the actual temperature at which you are trying to measure.
    • By adding a 3rd leadwire we cancel the readout affect of the first two leadwires.
  • Why are there different types of alpha curves for platinum RTD element?

    Different agencies or organizations (i.e. governmental, industrial and trade) have defined curves in an effort to develop a standard by which all manufacturers could operate. Some were developed by individual manufacturers based on their own abilities to offer a reproducible curve.
  • How do I know what type of alpha curve I need to use?

    When choosing a curve for a particular application, there are considerations to keep in mind.
    1. Existing, or proposed instrumentation. The sensor and sensor input curves must match.
    2. Cost. It may be more expensive to achieve 0.003926 curve than 0.003850 curve.
  • When do I need a transmitter?

    There are a few reasons to use transmitters;
    1. To amplify sensors output signal. This becomes critical if the sensor is located far away from the instrumentation or if there is electrical noise that distorts the sensor output.
    2. To improve the functionality of temperature measurement.
    3. To convert the sensor signal to standard signals, such as 0-20, 4-20mA
  • What are the main differences between thin-film element and wire-wound element?

    Thin film element is manufactured by using highly sophisticated technology called photolithography. This technology enables sensing element to be more rugged, smaller in size, more accurate, and more cost affective then traditional wire-wound elements. Since wire-wound elements are labor intensive, they tend to be more expensive
  • What is an element?

    Element is the component, which actually does the measuring. Based on the function it is going to perform and the technology employed in fabricating it, an element can have coils and/or different patterns to provide a signal, which then is used to measure the changes in different properties of energy.
  • What is a cold junction?

    Junction is a point where two dissimilar metals are joined.
    1. Cold junction (AKA, reference junction); a thermocouple junction, which is held at a known and stable temperature. Standard temperature used for this function is 32 F (0oC)
    2. Hot junction (AKA, measuring junction); a junction, which detects the temperature of unknown object or environment.
  • Can you tell me the advantages and disadvantages of grounded thermocouples?
    • A grounded junction puts the junction in contact with the packaging, protecting, metal case. This allows for a faster response time, however, a grounded tip is susceptible to electromotive forces in the environment, which might cause potential errors in the measurement.
    • An ungrounded junction, therefore, is one without a contact with the metal case. Thus, have slower response time, but is less likely to provide erroneous readings.
  • How do I cancel or edit my orders after I sent them?

    For cancellation, you need to call (763) 689-4870.
  • How do I return?

    You need to call (763) 689-4870 or fax (763) 689-5033 to arrange returns. Currently we do not provide this option online.
  • How do I place an order if I live outside the US?

    For international orders, you have to place orders by credit card, or fax your order to (763) 689 5033 for further processing.
  • Can I assess my shipping charges at the time of the order?

    No. Shipping charges are determined by the weight and dimensions of the box in which the products are going to be shipped. At the time being, we cannot provide this information and we are working towards providing this in the near future.