Sensors
Heat treatment processes are a crucial component of many manufacturing processes, and thermal loop solutions have become increasingly popular for achieving improved temperature control and consistent outcomes. But many OEMs are missing opportunities where thermal loop solutions offer more than just greater control. In this article, by Engineer Live Magazine, Peter Sherwin, and Thomas Rücker,explore the possibilities of thermal loop solutions.
Integrating sensors into the design and thinking about sensors early in the development process allows you to place the right sensors in the right location, and it’s not only a safety concern but can have a real impact on the efficiency and productivity of your process and, ultimately, revenue.
Heater systems have several safety controls built in to protect workers, devices and materials. High-limit sensors, or safety sensors, are one of these types of devices. Such sensors prevent runaway situations in which a switch does not turn off a heater and it continues heating after reaching the desired temperature.These can be dangerous situations that lead to damaged materials and devices or a fire that could injure employees and damage property.
The controller can only respond to the temperature changes it “sees” through feedback from the sensor location. Therefore, sensor placement is critical to the amount of heat applied to your process.
With proper installation and normal conditions, thermocouples can be depended upon to give trouble-free service and long life. This guide walks through the basics of proper thermocouple usage.
Thermocouples and RTDs can become damaged and incorrectly read the current and temperature of your heating products. If you have unusual temperature fluctuations or temperature differences between multiple heater bundles, a replaced or repaired sensor can restore your heating process to optimal performance.