NiCr-NiSi (Type K) thermocouples are among the most widely used base metal thermocouples, particularly for applications requiring high-temperature measurements above 500°C. These thermocouples exhibit reliable performance across a broad temperature range and are a popular choice for industrial and scientific applications.

Chemical Composition

The Type K thermocouple consists of two distinct legs with specific chemical compositions:

Positive Leg (NiCr, KP):

Nickel (Ni): ~90%

Chromium (Cr): ~10%

Negative Leg (NiSi, KN):

Nickel (Ni): ~97%

Silicon (Si): ~3%

Both legs are carefully engineered to maintain consistent thermoelectric properties across the operating range.

Temperature Range

Type K thermocouples are suitable for the following temperature ranges:

Short-term use: -200°C to 1300°C

Long-term use: 0°C to 1100°C

Standards Compliance

These thermocouples are designed and manufactured in accordance with the IEC 60584-1 standard, ensuring high-quality performance and interoperability with international systems.

Electromotive Force (EMF) Values

Type K thermocouples generate specific EMF values in millivolts (mV) relative to a platinum reference at various temperatures.

Physical Properties

Type K thermocouples also exhibit distinct physical properties under standard conditions:

Conclusion

NiCr-NiSi (Type K) thermocouples offer a versatile solution for temperature measurement in high-performance applications. With their wide operational range, standardized specifications, and reliable physical properties, they are well-suited for demanding industrial environments and research needs.