INDUSTRY COMPONENT

RTD Temperature Sensor

High-precision platinum-based temperature sensor for industrial chemical heating systems

Component Specifications

Definition
A Resistance Temperature Detector (RTD) is a precision temperature sensor that utilizes the predictable change in electrical resistance of platinum wire with temperature variation. In automated chemical drum heating systems, it provides accurate temperature feedback for closed-loop control, ensuring precise thermal management of chemical processes.
Working Principle
RTDs operate on the principle that the electrical resistance of pure metals increases linearly with temperature. Platinum (Pt100 or Pt1000) is commonly used due to its stability and repeatability. The sensor's resistance is measured by passing a small constant current through it and calculating temperature based on standardized resistance-temperature curves (IEC 60751).
Materials
Platinum wire (99.999% pure), ceramic or glass insulation, stainless steel (316L or Inconel) protective sheath, mineral-insulated cable with magnesium oxide filling
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Accuracy±0.1 °C at 0 °C, ±0.3 °C at 100 °C, Class A per IEC 60751 °CClass A tolerance for Pt100 sensors; Class B (±0.3 °C at 0 °C) acceptable for less critical loops.IEC 60751
Resistance100 Ω at 0 °C (Pt100) or 1000 Ω at 0 °C (Pt1000) ΩPt100 is standard; Pt1000 for higher sensitivity and lower lead resistance effects.IEC 60751
Response Time0.5–5 s (time constant, τ63) depending on sheath diameter and insertion depth sFaster response for smaller diameter and thinner sheath; typical for 6 mm sheath in water flow.IEC 60751
Connection Type2-wire, 3-wire, or 4-wire; M12 connector, terminal head, or flying leads4-wire for highest accuracy; 3-wire compensates lead resistance; 2-wire for cost-sensitive.
Sheath Diameter3–12 mm (standard 6 mm) mmSmaller diameter for faster response but less mechanical strength; 6 mm common for chemical processes.
Protection ClassIP65 (standard), IP68 (submersible) or IP69K (high-pressure washdown)IP65 for dry indoor; IP68 for immersion; IP69K for aggressive cleaning.IEC 60529
Temperature Range-50 to 500 °C (standard), up to 850 °C for high-temp version °CExtended range requires ceramic insulation and Inconel sheath; above 500 °C, use Pt100 with ceramic element.IEC 60751
Wire ConfigurationSingle or dual element (2×Pt100); lead wire length 1–10 mDual element for redundancy; lead wire length affects response and accuracy.
Continuous operation-50 to 500 °C (standard), up to 850 °C (high-temp)Outside this window: Above 850 °C, platinum element drifts and insulation degrades; below -50 °C, accuracy degrades.
Process pressureUp to 100 bar (static) for 6 mm sheath; derate above 200 °COutside this window: Exceeding pressure rating causes sheath collapse or rupture.
VibrationUp to 20 g at 10–500 Hz (depending on mounting)Outside this window: Excessive vibration leads to wire breakage or short circuit.
Chemical exposure316L sheath for general chemicals; Inconel 600 for corrosive or high-temp; PTFE coating for strong acidsOutside this window: Material incompatibility causes corrosion and sensor failure.

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Standards
IEC 60751, IEC 60529

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation
  • Chemical corrosion of sheath material
  • Mechanical damage during installation
  • Electrical noise interference
  • Calibration drift over time
  • Moisture ingress in connections
FMEA Triads
Trigger: Chemical attack on stainless steel sheath
Failure: Sensor drift or complete failure
Mitigation: Use Inconel or Hastelloy sheaths for aggressive chemicals, implement regular inspection schedule
Trigger: Vibration from mixing equipment
Failure: Wire breakage or connection failure
Mitigation: Use vibration-resistant designs, secure cable routing, implement strain relief
Trigger: Thermal cycling stress
Failure: Cracked insulation or connection failure
Mitigation: Use sensors rated for thermal cycling, implement gradual temperature changes

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance
Class A: ±(0.15 + 0.002|t|)°C, Class B: ±(0.3 + 0.005|t|)°C per IEC 60751
Test Method
Ice point (0°C) and boiling point (100°C) verification, comparison calibration against reference standard, resistance measurement at multiple temperature points

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

A practical evidence checklist for RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation
Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.
Manufacturing capability
Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.
Inspection readiness
Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.
Supplier transparency
Check the legal entity, factory address, ownership, certifications, and direct contacts.

CNFX does not score or rank suppliers. Buyers must verify all claims and documents with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Manufacturers of RTD Temperature Sensor

3 companies list this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

Xiamen Maxwell Automation Limited
Fujian, CN
Founded 2011
CE
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Cheemi Technology Co. Ltd.
Nanjing, Jiangsu, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Shanghai Ziasiot Technology
Shanghai, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources

Manufacturer listings support early research and capability understanding. They are not certification, ranking, or transaction guarantees.

Related Components

Back Pressure Regulator
A back pressure regulator is a precision valve that maintains constant upstream pressure in continuous flow reactor systems by controlling downstream pressure.
Fume Extraction Hood
A fume extraction hood is a critical safety component that captures and removes hazardous chemical vapors, fumes, and particulates generated during automated chemical drum filling and sealing operations.
Safety Enclosure & Ventilation
Safety enclosure and ventilation system for automated chemical storage and retrieval systems, designed to contain hazardous materials and maintain safe air quality.
Management Software License
Digital license enabling access to management software for automated chemical drum labeling and tracking systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between 2-wire, 3-wire, and 4-wire RTD configurations?

2-wire RTDs are simplest but include lead wire resistance in measurement. 3-wire RTDs compensate for lead resistance in balanced bridge circuits. 4-wire RTDs provide highest accuracy by completely eliminating lead resistance effects through separate current and voltage measurement paths.

How often should RTD sensors be calibrated in chemical heating applications?

Annual calibration is recommended for critical processes. More frequent verification (quarterly) may be required for applications with strict temperature control requirements or harsh chemical environments.

Can RTD sensors be used in explosive atmospheres?

Yes, with appropriate intrinsically safe barriers or explosion-proof housings certified for hazardous locations (ATEX, IECEx).

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Preliminary Technical Classification
This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

Request Manufacturing Insight for RTD Temperature Sensor

Thank you. Your request has been sent. We'll respond within 1–3 business days.
Sorry, we couldn't send your message. Please try again, or email us at contact@cnfx.com.
Rheology modifiers Safety Enclosure & Ventilation
Get QuotesChat