Termoelemente

A termoelement, also known as a thermocouple, is a temperature-measuring device that consists of two dissimilar electrical conductors forming electrical junctions at differing temperatures. When the junction of the two metals is heated or cooled, it produces a voltage that is proportional to the temperature difference between the two junctions. This phenomenon is known as the Seebeck effect.

The basic construction involves joining two wires made of different metals or alloys at one end. This joined end is called the "hot junction" or "measuring junction" and is placed at the point where the temperature is to be measured. The other ends of the wires, known as the "cold junction" or "reference junction," are connected to a measuring instrument, such as a voltmeter. The voltage generated by the temperature difference between the hot and cold junctions is then read by the instrument, which is calibrated to display the temperature.

Various combinations of metals are used for thermocouples, each suited for different temperature ranges and environments. Common types include Type K (chromel-alumel), Type J (iron-constantan), and Type T (copper-constantan). Thermocouples are widely used in industrial applications, scientific research, and everyday devices like ovens and thermostats due to their robustness, wide temperature range, and relatively low cost. Their ability to withstand harsh conditions makes them a versatile choice for temperature sensing.