4-20mA Temperature Transmitters

Browse our selection of temperature transmitters for various applications. High performance temperature transmitters from PR Electronics and Nokeval. RTD and thermocouple transmitters for ATEX and SIL.

What is a Temperature Transmitter?

A temperature transmitter is a device that measures temperature and converts this measurement into an electrical signal. It is designed to convert the temperature of a system into a standardised electrical signal, typically a 4-20mA current loop or a digital signal.

This signal can be sent to other equipment, like control systems or displays, for monitoring and analysis. It helps to monitor temperature from a distance and is often used in industrial settings to ensure proper temperature control and safety.

Read more in our article: What is a temperature transmitter?

At Process Parameters, we can support your compact temperature transmitter requirements whatever the measurement design, in head or DIN Rail mounting. If you’re not sure what you need for your process, please get in touch and we can help identify your requirements.

How Does a Temperature Transmitter Work?

A temperature transmitter works by converting temperature measurements from a sensor into electrical signals that can be easily transmitted and interpreted. The process involves:

1. Sensing: The temperature sensor (like a thermocouple or resistance temperature detector) detects the temperature of the environment.
2. Signal Conversion: The transmitter converts this temperature data into an electrical signal. It might use methods like resistance changes (RTDs) or voltage differences (thermocouples) to do this.
3. Amplification: The electrical signal is amplified to make it stronger and suitable for transmission over longer distances.
4. Linearisation: Sometimes, the transmitter adjusts the signal to account for the non-linear characteristics of certain temperature sensors. This makes the signal easier to interpret accurately.
5. Transmission: The amplified and possibly linearised signal is sent through wires or wireless methods to a receiving device, like a control system or display.
6. Interpretation: The receiving device interprets the signal and displays or records the temperature value in a readable format.

In short, a temperature transmitter transforms temperature data into an electrical signal, allowing remote monitoring and control of temperature conditions.

Applications of RTD and Thermocouple Temperature Transmitters

Temperature transmitters are commonly used in processes where accurate temperature monitoring and control are essential. They are often installed in industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, chemical, pharmaceuticals, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems.

• Metal Processing: Used in metal processing industries where high temperatures are involved, such as forging, heat treatment, and metal casting.
• Plastics Industry: Employed in extrusion, injection moulding, and other processes within the plastics industry to monitor and control temperatures.
• Energy and Utilities: Monitoring temperatures in power plants, renewable energy facilities, and utility infrastructure to optimise energy production and distribution.
• Research and Development: Utilised in R&D settings for experiments, testing, and studies that require accurate and reliable temperature measurements.
• Automotive Manufacturing: Integrated into automotive production lines for monitoring and controlling temperatures in various stages of manufacturing.
• Chemical Processing: Used in chemical plants to monitor temperatures during chemical reactions, distillation, and other processes.
• Oil and Gas Exploration: Applied in oil and gas exploration for temperature measurements in drilling, refining, and transportation.
• HVAC Systems: Incorporated into heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems for temperature regulation in commercial and residential buildings.
• Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals: Utilised in biotech and pharmaceutical research and manufacturing for precise temperature control in critical processes.
• Food Industry: Employed in food production and storage to monitor and control temperatures for quality and safety compliance.

What are the Advantages of Temperature Transmitters?

• Improved Accuracy
• Remote Monitoring Capabilities
• Resistance to Electrical Noise
• Long-Term Stability
• Compact and Lightweight
• Wide Temperature Range
• Compatibility with Various Sensors
• Enhanced Reliability
• Easy Integration with Control Systems
• Cost-Effective Solution
• Simplified Wiring
• Reduced Signal Loss
• Increased Flexibility in Installation
• Enhanced Safety in Hazardous Environments
• Minimised Interference from Ground Loops
• Digital Communication Options

What are the Different Types of Temperature Transmitters?

There are different kinds of temperature transmitters, each with its own way of fitting and use:

1. Head-Mounted Transmitters: These fit right into the sensor’s connection head. They’re simple to install and need less wiring.
2. Field Mount Transmitters: Tough and resilient, these are made for tough places. They stay protected in sturdy enclosures.
3. Rail Mount Transmitters: Put these on DIN rails, handy for grouping in a panel for easy access.
4. Explosion-Proof Transmitters: For dangerous zones, these precise transmitters need skilled engineers. They can be DIN rail or head-mounted and come with ATEX and IECEx certifications.

PR Electronics Transmitters

As a prominent distributor of PR Electronics products in the UK and Ireland, Process Parameters offers an extensive range of temperature transmitters from PR Electronics.

PR Electronics is a well-known Danish company that specialises in the development and production of dependable solutions for process control.

Explore our selection of other PR Electronics temperature transmitters.

FAQs

What does temperature transmitter actually do?

A temperature transmitter is a device that measures and converts temperature readings from a sensor into an electrical signal. This signal can then be sent to a control system, such as a PLC or DCS, which can use it to monitor and control temperature in various industrial processes.

Temperature transmitters are often used in industries such as oil and gas, chemical processing, and manufacturing, where precise temperature control is critical for maintaining product quality and safety. They are also commonly used in HVAC systems to regulate indoor temperatures in buildings.

What is the difference between a thermometer and a temperature transmitter?

A thermometer is a device that measures temperature and displays it on a screen or dial. It typically consists of a glass or plastic tube containing a liquid, such as mercury or alcohol, which expands or contracts as the temperature changes.

On the other hand, a temperature transmitter is an electronic device that converts the temperature measurement into an electrical signal and transmits it to a control system or computer.

Unlike thermometers, temperature transmitters can be connected to a network and provide continuous monitoring of temperature in real-time. They are often used in industrial settings where accuracy and reliability are critical.

Is a thermocouple a temperature transmitter?

No, a thermocouple is not a temperature transmitter. A thermocouple is a sensor used to measure temperature by utilising the principle of thermal electromotive force.

On the other hand, a temperature transmitter is an electronic device that converts the output signal from a temperature sensor into a standardised signal that can be transmitted and processed by control systems or other devices. While both are used for temperature measurement, they serve different purposes and operate differently.