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Optimizing Performance with Cu-CuNi (Type T) Thermocouple Alloys

2025-11-19

Optimizing Performance with Cu-CuNi (Type T) Thermocouple Alloys

Product Overview
The Cu-CuNi thermocouple, commonly known as Type T, is a highly reliable temperature sensor consisting of a pure Copper positive leg (TP) and a Constantan negative leg (TN). With its chemical composition of Cu 55% and Ni 45% in the negative leg, this thermocouple delivers exceptional accuracy in low-temperature applications. Fully compliant with IEC 60584-1 standards, Type T thermocouples offer superior performance in their designated temperature range.

 

Key Advantages

Excellent Low-Temperature Performance: Optimized for temperature measurement from -200°C to 350°C with high accuracy and stability

Oxidation-Resistant Design: Superior performance in oxidizing environments compared to other base-metal thermocouples

Material Precision: Strict composition control ensures consistent thermoelectric properties

Standardized Compatibility: Full compliance with international standards guarantees reliable performance

 

Type and Chemical Composition (%)

Type

Designation

Ni

Cu

Mn

Si

Al

Positive Leg

Cu (TP)

/

100

/

/

/

Negative Leg

Constantan (TN)

45

55

/

/

/

 

Performance Characteristics

EMF Output vs. Pt-64 (mV)
Precisely calibrated thermal EMF output ensures measurement accuracy across the operating range.

Type

100°C

200°C

300°C

Cu TP

4.229-4.325

9.238-9.334

14.792-14.932

Cu TN

0.763-0.783

1.826-1.846

3.137-3.161

Cu-CuNi (Combined)

3.484-3.524

7.412-7.488

11.655-11.771

 

Physical Properties
Optimized material properties ensure durability and reliable performance in various applications.

Property

Cu (TP)

CuNi (TN)

Density at 20°C (g/cm³)

9.0

8.9

Melting Point (°C)

1084

1220

Tensile Strength, Annealed (MPa)

≥190

≥390

Elongation, Annealed (%)

≥20

≥25

Resistivity at 20°C (μΩ·m)

0.018

0.50

 

Technical Notes

Type T Constantan (TN) provides different EMF characteristics compared to Type J Constantan (JN)

While TN and EN types are interchangeable, they cannot be interchanged with IN type

Operating range limited to 350°C maximum due to copper's oxidation susceptibility

 

Typical Applications

Low-temperature process monitoring and control

Cryogenic and refrigeration systems

Environmental chambers and thermal testing

Food processing and storage applications

HVAC and building automation systems

 

Why Choose Type T Thermocouple Alloys?

Proven accuracy in critical low-temperature measurements

Consistent batch-to-batch performance through strict quality control

Excellent mechanical properties for easy installation and handling

International standard compliance for reliable system integration

 

Conclusion
Type T thermocouples provide optimized solutions for low-temperature measurement applications requiring high accuracy and reliability. Their specific material composition and standardized performance characteristics make them ideal for applications where temperature precision is critical below 350°C. By selecting Type T thermocouples, engineers ensure dependable temperature monitoring with consistent, repeatable results.