Auberin's K-type thermocouple question

javand

javand

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Oct 17, 2010
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Hey guys, I'm finally getting started on a bigger ht oven, and I had a concern about thermocouples.

I was planning to get the 2300deg rated model, but it mentions being designed for continuous operation at that temp. They mention the 2000deg model as being for glass or heat treating work.

Anyway, is there some limitation to the 2300deg model, that makes it less ideal for other temps, or is the only real difference the max working temp? The wording in the description made me uncertain.

Thanks for the advice, haven't built anything using these types of components yet so I'm a bit out of my element.
 
I was just reading about these myself recently. My understanding is that the 2300 deg
version needs the ceramic sheath if used in a fuel heated (propane) forge, otherwise no
limitations.
 
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The 2300F TC is more robust than the 2000F model. It often is 8 gauge instead of 11 gauge. Using a TC ceramic sheath is needed in a gas forge, but not in an electric oven. The ceramic insulators are needed in both.

I always recommend using the most robust TC you can get, as it is the only device that reads the temps....and everything rides on those readings.
 
Stacy, correct me if I'm wrong but when it says continuous operation, it just means that is capable of sustained operation at that temp and can be used at lower temps easily and higher temps for shorter periods (although it will affect the TC life), the same as coil rating.
 
Yes, the ratings are a maximum survivable temp.
This is often ( usually) a temp that can only be survived for a short time. When something is rated at continuous duty, it can survive that temp for extended lengths of time.

With a TC get 8 gauge and the most robust one you can get.

Think about a generator. It says 3500 watts. But the fine print says, for brief surges, regular full time rating is 2700 watts. The same for an SSR. it says 40 amps, but will only deliver that for a short time and must have a heat sink and fan. The regular load is around 25 amps.
Motors/welders/etc. are similar, and a continuous duty motor/welder is far more robust - and more expensive -m than the cheaper model with a low duty cycle.
 
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