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Temperature Sensors

Temperature sensors measure temperature and convert it to an electrical signal that can be read by monitoring devices or controllers. Such sensors are typically used to precisely control temperatures in applications such as food storage or factory automation. There are two main types of temperature sensors.

Thermostats

Thermostats are used in commercial buildings, large residences or industrial plants where temperature needs to be precisely monitored and controlled. They usually consist of a temperature sensor, relay, and a controller. The controller, usually a programmable logic controller (PLC), listens to the sensor’s signal and compares it with the programmable set points. If the temperature gets too low, the relay sends a signal to the heater to turn on and vice versa. The controller can also be used to trigger alarms if the temperature gets too high or too low. Thermostats may also come with home automation features, such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity.

Mechanical temperature sensors

Mechanical temperature sensors consist of a sensing element, usually a bimetallic strip or a resistance temperature detector (RTD). The element changes its electrical properties in response to a change in temperature. This change is then read by a power supply, which converts it into a voltage or current signal that can be used as an input for a monitoring device. This type of temperature sensor typically has higher accuracy and response time than a thermostat. Mechanical temperature sensors are commonly used in heating and cooling systems, as well as in medical diagnostics.

Temperature sensors are used in a wide range of applications, from food storage and industrial automation to medical diagnostics and home automation. Depending on the particular application, one type of sensor might be preferred over the other. Thermostats are typically used for large scale temperature control applications, while mechanical temperature sensors are generally better suited for high accuracy and fast response times.