What is a temperature transmitter and how does it work?

A temperature transmitter is used in industrial processes to accurately monitor and control temperatures. Temperature sensors generate electrical signals that are converted into a standardised output signal by the transmitter, usually into a 4-20 mA or 0-10 V signal. This conversion enables the measured values to be transmitted very safely and reliably, even over long distances.

Where are temperature transmitters used?

Temperature transmitters are used in various industries. Especially in the process industry (chemical and pharmaceutical industry, food processing) they are installed to ensure product quality. In power plants, they are used to improve energy efficiency. In the oil and gas industry, they are used to monitor temperatures in refineries and during production. They are also of high importance when it comes to controlling temperatures in heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems, in water treatment plants, during automotive production and in aerospace technology.

What is the difference between digital and analogue temperature transmitters?

Analogue transmitters do not have processors. This means that the instruments are not configurable, but can only be adjusted for a fixed measuring range, for example. Moreover, they only offer limited diagnostic functions. Digital transmitters have a high accuracy, are versatile and configurable. They offer advanced diagnostic functions such as, for example, sensor break monitoring in accordance with NAMUR NE89, making them perfect for complex industrial applications.

Which configuration options are there for temperature transmitters?

For temperature transmitters, there are many configuration possibilities for the different requirements. HART® tools enable the full range of device settings and therefore offer customers maximum flexibility. WIKA software allows user-friendly configurations of WIKA instruments, fixed-range transmitters with predefined measuring range ensure simplicity and bus systems provide complex networks and integration into automated control systems.

How do temperature transmitters for head mounting and rail mounting differ from each other?

Temperature transmitters for head mounting and rail mounting are different in both their mounting method and their design. The functionality and performance, however, are the same for both types. Transmitters in head-mounted version are designed for installation in connection heads. There are two variants: either mounted directly onto the measuring insert or remotely inside the cover of the connection head. Temperature transmitters in rail-mounted version, also called DIN-rail mounting, are designed to be mounted onto DIN rails. They are suitable for use in control cabinets and can be mounted closely together, saving a lot of space. Whether a head-mounted or rail-mounted version is selected depends on the customer’s application.