RTD Vs ThermoCouple

Significant difference between RTDs and Thermocouples are that RTDs are more accurate and linear temperature sensors and Thermocouples on the other hand, have greater temperature measurement ranges. Thermocouple with its various types can be used to measure temperatures from -250 C to +3000 C (-418 F to 5432 F) while RTD can be used in the range from -200 C and +850 C (-418 F to 1562 F). Thermocouples have a non-linear temperature/voltage ratio and exhibit signs of hysteresis. To this is added the additional costs for thermal wires and extension wires, the need for a reference point and, finally, the relatively weak output signal. While in RTD, to nullify the effect of wire resistances, 3 wire RTDs or 4 wire RTDs are often used which increase the cost of RTDs and also the metal used for a RTD must be in its purest form which make RTDs relatively expensive than thermocouples. In an installation where long leads are required, the RTD does not require special extension cable. In comparison with the single-point measuring probe of the thermocouple, RTDs measure the entire volume of the measurement resistor. They are less robust and respond more slowly than thermocouples. RTDs require a power source and the self heating effect is also prevalent in RTDs. A power supply failure can cause erroneous readings in RTDs. Unlike thermocouples, radioactive radiation has minimal effect on RTDs since the parameter measured is resistance, not voltage. Electromagnetic stray fields affect the signal of thermocouples more as compared to that of RTDs.
Parameter Accuracy Area of application Price Measuring point Thermocouple Good Large temperature range Economical Single-point Very good Small temperature range Relatively expensive Over the entire length of the measuring resistor Long Comparatively large sensor surface Not required Generally unsuitable RTD

Response times Dimensions Reference junction Surface temperature measurement Vibration resistance External Power Source Spontaneous heating Long-term stability Robustness Connection cables Noise Resistive

Short Very small versions are possible Required Suitable

Very robust Not required Does not occur Satisfactory Very good Special extension Cables Satisfactory

Relatively sensitive Required Must be taken into account Excellent Good Copper instrument cables Excellent