An RTD (Resistance Temperature Detector) is a type of temperature sensor that operates on the principle of electrical resistance changes with temperature. The resistance of an RTD element increases with temperature in a predictable and repeatable manner. RTDs are known for their high accuracy, stability, and linearity over a wide temperature range.
Pt100 is a specific type of RTD that is constructed using platinum (Pt) as the sensing element. The "100" in Pt100 refers to the resistance of the sensor at 0°C, which is 100 ohms. Pt100 RTDs are among the most common and widely used temperature sensors due to their excellent characteristics, including:
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High Accuracy: Pt100 RTDs provide highly accurate temperature measurements, making them suitable for precision applications where accuracy is critical.
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Wide Temperature Range: Pt100 RTDs can measure temperatures over a broad range, typically from -200°C to +850°C (-328°F to +1562°F), although specialized versions can extend this range even further.
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Linearity: Pt100 RTDs offer excellent linearity, meaning the relationship between temperature and resistance is nearly linear, simplifying calibration and measurement.
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Stability: Pt100 RTDs exhibit good long-term stability, maintaining their calibration over extended periods of use.
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Interchangeability: Pt100 RTDs adhere to international standards, ensuring interchangeability between sensors from different manufacturers and compatibility with various measurement devices.
Pt100 RTDs are commonly used in industries such as manufacturing, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), automotive, aerospace, and laboratory settings where precise temperature measurement is required. They are often employed in temperature measurement applications where high accuracy and reliability are paramount, such as industrial process control, environmental monitoring, and scientific research.
