Thermocouple calibration: what you need to know

Thermocouples are broadly used in many industrial and scientific applications. But it can be a bit tricky to understand how they work and how to calibrate them.

We've developed a thermocouple application note series created by temperature calibration experts to help you learn what you need to know. The series covers how thermocouples work, choosing calibration equipment, calculating uncertainties, and how to calibrate thermocouples.

There are four application notes in the series:

• Thermocouple Fundamentals. What is a thermocouple? How does a thermocouple work? Why do thermocouples need to be calibrated?
   
• How to Select Thermocouple Calibration Equipment. Learn about the characteristics of thermocouples as compared with thermistors and PRTs. You will also learn what equipment is required to calibrate a thermocouple, and how to select the best solution for your application.
   
• Calculating Uncertainties in a Thermocouple Calibration System. Learn how to calculate uncertainties when calibrating a thermocouple.
   
• How to Calibrate a Thermocouple. Learn how to set up a thermocouple calibration, place the probe, and collect data. You’ll also learn about the benefits of automating the calibration and look at two calibration options (tolerance testing and characterization of thermocouples).

We’ve posted links to all four application notes on the Thermocouple Application Note Series » page, so you can easily look at all four.

What's the best advice you've ever received on calibrating thermcouples? Post your answer in Comments.

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