
Analog modules
5.13 Connecting thermocouples
S7-400 Automation System Module Data
Reference Manual, Edition 09/2009, A5E00850736-06
231
5.13 Connecting thermocouples
Thermocouple design
Thermocouples consist of a pair of thermal probes, and all necessary installation and
connecting parts. The thermocouple consists of two wires of dissimilar metals or metal alloys
soldered or welded together at the ends.
There are different types of thermocouple, depending on the composition of the material
used, for example, K, J, N thermocouples. The measuring principle of all thermocouples is
the same, irrespective of their type.
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°C
(1) Measuring junction
(2) Thermocouple with positive or negative limbs
(3) Connecting point
(4) Compensating leads
(5) Reference junction
(6) Leads
(7) Measurement input
Figure 5-15 Thermocouple design
Operating principle of thermocouples
If the measuring point is subjected to a temperature different from that of the free ends of the
thermocouple (point of connection), a voltage, the thermo e.m.f., occurs at the free ends.
The magnitude of the thermo-e.m.f. generated depends on the difference between the
temperature at the measuring junction and the temperature at the free ends, as well as on
the material combination used for the thermocouple.
Since a thermocouple always measures a temperature difference, the free ends must be
kept at a known temperature at a reference junction in order to determine the temperature of
the measuring junction.
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