How to Find the Right Temperature Sensor for Your Application – A Comprehensive Guide

Choosing the right temperature sensor is essential for accurate measurements and the smooth operation of your application – whether in industrial settings, laboratories, building automation, or private use. However, with the wide range of available sensors, making the right decision can be challenging. In this guide, you will learn what to look out for in order to select the ideal temperature sensor for your specific application.

1. What Is a Temperature Sensor?

A temperature sensor – also known as a temperature probe – is an electronic component that converts temperature differences into an electrical signal. This signal can then be used for display, control, or data recording. The most common types include:

• PT100 / PT1000 (Platinum Resistance Thermometers)

• Thermocouples (e.g., Type K, J, T)

• NTC / PTC Thermistors

• Digital Temperature Sensors

Each of these sensor types has specific characteristics that make them particularly suitable for certain applications.

2. Application Areas Determine the Type of Sensor

To begin with, you should ask yourself where and for what purpose you intend to use the temperature sensor. Typical areas of application include:

Process Engineering & Industrial Automation

PT100 / PT1000 sensors or thermocouples are often used here, as they offer high accuracy, fast response times, and a wide temperature range.

Building Automation & HVAC

For monitoring room temperatures, heating systems, or ventilation units, NTC sensors or digital sensors are often suitable due to their easy integration.

Food Industry & Medical Technology

High hygiene standards and fast response times require special, often waterproof sensors with appropriate certifications.

Research & Laboratory

In sensitive measuring environments, highly precise resistance thermometers (e.g., PT100 in 1/10 DIN class) are recommended.

3. Key Selection Criteria for Temperature Sensors

To find the right sensor, you should consider the following criteria:

Temperature Range

Determine the minimum and maximum temperatures the sensor needs to measure. Thermocouples, for example, are ideal for extreme temperatures.

Accuracy & Tolerance Class

Choose the accuracy level required for your application – for example, Class A or B for PT100 sensors.

Response Time

In dynamic processes, a fast response time is crucial for reliable measurement.

Design and Installation Method

Whether you need an immersion sleeve, screw-in sensor, surface sensor, or penetration probe – the design must match your specific setup.

Media Resistance & Protection Rating

Ensure the sensor materials (e.g., stainless steel, Teflon) and protection class (e.g., IP65, IP68) are suitable for the environment – especially in humid or chemically aggressive conditions.

Signal Processing / Output Signal

Do you need an analog signal (e.g., 4–20 mA), a digital signal (e.g., I²C, One-Wire), or a direct resistance signal?

4. Custom Solutions and Expert Consultation

In many cases, it is worthwhile to seek expert advice from a specialist distributor or measurement technology expert, especially if you need custom solutions or have specific requirements – such as applications in hazardous areas (ATEX) or demanding hygienic environments.

5. Conclusion: How to Choose the Right Temperature Sensor

The ideal temperature sensor depends on a range of factors – from the temperature range and environmental conditions to the signal type. Start by clearly defining your requirements and consult an expert if in doubt. This ensures that your temperature measurement is reliable, accurate, and durable.

Need help finding the right temperature sensor?
We are happy to support you with our many years of experience in professional measurement technology. Contact us at priggen@priggen.com for personal advice or browse our wide selection of temperature sensors for every application at www.priggen.com.

Gerne! Hier ist die einwandfreie englische Übersetzung des Textes über kalibrierte Thermoelemente:

Are Calibrated Thermocouples Available? – Everything You Need to Know

If your application depends on precise temperature measurements, you will eventually ask yourself: Are calibrated thermocouples available – and what are their benefits?
The answer is: Yes, thermocouples can be calibrated, and in many industries – such as manufacturing, laboratory environments, medical technology, or quality assurance – calibration is either required or highly recommended.

In this article, we’ll explain what a calibrated thermocouple is, what to consider when selecting one, and the advantages of using calibrated sensors.

To obtain a statement about accuracy and possible deviations, it is important that you always have a complete measuring unit calibrated:

Measuring instrument + temperature sensor

Only then will you receive a reliable statement about possible deviations.

What Is a Thermocouple?

A thermocouple is a type of temperature sensor made from two different metallic conductors joined at one end. Due to the thermoelectric effect, a voltage is generated that changes with temperature. This voltage can be measured and converted into a temperature reading.

Common types include:

• Type K (Nickel-Chromium / Nickel) – widely used, robust, broad temperature range

• Type J (Iron / Copper-Nickel) – suitable for lower temperatures

• Type T (Copper / Copper-Nickel) – highly accurate at low temperatures

• Types N, S, R, B – for high-temperature or specialized applications

What Does "Calibrated Thermocouple" Mean?

A calibrated thermocouple is a sensor whose measurement accuracy has been tested and documented in a calibration laboratory. The calibration is carried out over a defined temperature range, where the thermocouple is compared to a traceable reference sensor. The deviation from the standard curve is then recorded.

The result is a calibration certificate, which typically includes:

• The measured temperature range

• Actual values and deviations from the target values

• Measurement uncertainty

• Traceability to national or international standards (e.g., DAkkS, ISO 17025)

Why Are Calibrated Thermocouples Important?

Calibrated thermocouples provide verified accuracy and reliable results. They are especially important in the following areas:

• Quality assurance under ISO 9001

• Validated processes in the pharmaceutical, food, or medical industries

• Precise temperature monitoring in industrial furnaces, test benches, or laboratories

• Comparative measurements and certifications

Only calibrated sensors ensure your temperature data is reliable, comparable, and compliant with industry standards.

Where Can You Get Calibrated Thermocouples?

At priggen.com, we offer a wide selection of high-quality thermocouples, available with or without calibration certificates, depending on your specific needs.

You can choose from the following calibration options:

• Factory calibration – suitable for most industrial applications

• UKAS-/ DAkkS calibration – for highest accuracy and full traceability

• Custom calibration ranges – tailored to your requirements

• Multi-point calibration – across several temperature points if needed

Our team will gladly assist you in selecting the right sensor and calibration method – customized for your application.

Conclusion: Calibrated Thermocouples – Accurate, Reliable, and Traceable

Yes, calibrated thermocouples are available – and in many cases, they are indispensable for achieving compliant, safe, and precise temperature measurements. If your application relies on accurate data or operates within a regulated industry, using calibrated sensors is a must.

Need help selecting a calibrated thermocouple?
The team at PSE - Priggen Special Electronic is here to support you with expert advice. Contact us at priggen@priggen.com or visit our online store for professional measurement technology, featuring a wide range of temperature sensors, calibration services, and accessories.

Are Thermocouples from PSE – Priggen Special Electronic Readily Available?

Yes, many thermocouples offered by PSE – Priggen Special Electronic GmbH are immediately available from stock. As a specialized distributor of professional measurement technology, we maintain a wide selection of thermocouples of various types – including Type K, J, T, N, S, R, and B – in different designs and lengths.

Thanks to our close partnerships with leading manufacturers and our in-house inventory, we are able to deliver many models at short notice. This is especially true for standard versions such as:

• Type K thermocouples with bare or insulated wires

• Screw-in and penetration probes with thermocouple connection

• Surface probes for fast temperature readings

• Miniature thermocouples for confined installation spaces

For applications with specific requirements – such as UKAS- or DAkkS-calibrated thermocouples, special materials, or custom cable lengths – we also offer short lead times or customized solutions upon request.

Your Benefits with PSE – Priggen Special Electronic:

• Wide range of thermocouples available for immediate delivery

• Fast shipping directly from our warehouse

• Expert advice from experienced measurement technology specialists

• Custom-made solutions available on request

Need a thermocouple urgently?
Contact us by phone or email at priggen@priggen.com – we will check availability immediately and provide you with the right thermocouple quickly and reliably.

Visit our online store at www.priggen.com and discover our ready-to-ship temperature sensors for industry, laboratory, and research applications.

Can Temperature Sensors Not Listed in the Online Shop Also Be Procured?

Yes, at PSE – Priggen Special Electronic GmbH, you can also order temperature sensors that are not listed in our online shop. As an experienced distributor specializing in measurement technology of all kinds, we have a broad network of manufacturers and suppliers – both nationally and internationally. This enables us to source special, rare, or customized temperature sensors according to your requirements.

Whether you are looking for:

• a specific custom design,

• special cable lengths,

• unusual material specifications,

• a particular protection class (e.g. IP68),

• or a high-speed or calibrated model –

we are happy to assist you in selecting the right product and will take care of the fast and reliable procurement of your desired sensor.

Your Benefits with PSE – Priggen Special Electronic:

• Custom sensor solutions on request

• Access to a wide range of global manufacturers

• Many years of experience in sourcing technical specialty products

• Personal consultation with experts in temperature measurement technology

Looking for a temperature sensor that’s not listed in the shop?
Simply send us your specifications or technical drawings at priggen@priggen.com – our team will promptly check availability and provide you with a tailored offer.

Visit www.priggen.com – your reliable partner for temperature sensors, sensing solutions, and professional measurement technology.