lämpöparin

A lämpöparin, or thermocouple in English, is a temperature-measuring device that consists of two dissimilar metal wires joined together at one end, forming a junction. When this junction is subjected to a temperature difference compared to the other ends of the wires, a small voltage is produced. This thermoelectric effect, known as the Seebeck effect, is the fundamental principle behind how a thermocouple operates.

The magnitude of the voltage generated is directly proportional to the temperature difference. By measuring this voltage and knowing the properties of the specific metals used, the temperature at the junction can be accurately determined. Different combinations of metals are used to create thermocouples suitable for various temperature ranges and environments. For example, Type K thermocouples, made of chromel and alumel, are common for general-purpose applications, while platinum-rhodium thermocouples are used for very high temperatures.

Thermocouples are widely used across many industries due to their robustness, relatively low cost, and ability to measure a broad range of temperatures, from cryogenic levels to thousands of degrees Celsius. They are found in applications such as industrial furnaces, power generation, automotive engines, and scientific research. The simplicity of their construction and their direct voltage output make them a versatile and reliable sensor for temperature monitoring and control.