What is a thermocouple wire?
The line used in a thermocouple from the induction point to the cold end compensation point (CJC end) where the signal is measured. A thermocouple is a sensor that measures temperature by connecting two different metals at the sensing end. Different types of thermocouples (e.g., J, K, T, E, etc.) use different combinations of wires. At the cold-end compensation end, the millivolt value provided by the thermocouple represents the temperature difference between the induction end and the cold-end compensation end (also known as the reference end).
How to label insulated thermocouple wires?
The insulation layer of thermocouple wires is identified by color coding. Common criteria include red for the negative wire in the insulated thermocouple wire, the positive wire being the same color as the thermocouple and the overall color of the insulated extension wire. The outer sheath of thermocouple wires is usually brown. High-temperature wires are usually made of white material with color-coded tracers. In precision manufacturing applications, accurate identification of thermocouple wire types is critical for maintaining temperature control and product quality. To find out the available temperature range for various types of insulation, see the Wire Insulation Identification table. This link also includes additional information about the metals used in thermocouple wires, insulation color coding, etc.
