Mini-Multipoint Thermocouple Assembly

Mini-Multipoint thermocouple assemblies are generally small diameter, individual sensing probes which measure temperature at different positions or elevations.  Each individual probe is protected with a stainless steel (or other alloy) sheath.  These probes may then be contained in a protective tube.  These assemblies are used when a temperature profile is desired and mass, or size, of the probe is a limitation.  These assemblies can be constructed in a wide variety of configurations.

Applications:  Mini-Multipoint thermocouple assemblies are used in a number of different applications.  Some of the more common uses are as follows:

• Tube Sheet Reactors

• Pilot Plant Temperature Measurement

• Food Preparation

In addition, it is possible in some applications to add a traversing ability to the temperature measurement assembly.  This allows for continuous data to be collected over the distance of the traverse stroke.  This feature can help gather important information relating to catalyst or process activity.  These traversing units can be electrically driven with precise feedback on position.

Tube Sheet Reactors:  This application requires vertical profiles within one or more catalyst filled tubes through which a process stream flows.  During the passage through the tube a temperature gradient is produced.  This temperature gradient data is often critical information for optimum performance of the process.  This data can help maximize throughput and insure product quality.

Important design features include:

• Minimize catalyst loading problems

• Maintenance problems can be minimized with use of designs which allow removal of temperature assembly without disturbing catalyst or process

• Low mass designed to avoid influencing process conversion and temperatures

• Proper centering in catalyst tube for accurate process temperatures

Pilot Plant Plant Temperature Measurement:  This application includes process demonstration units and research.  Since temperature data is critical to understanding a new or modified process, the sensor system must be carefully designed and manufactured.  In pilot plant operation the sensors must also be scaled down in order to not influence the reactions taking place.  At the same time it is important that the data taken is accurate.  These important factors which must be taken into account during design.

Important design feature include:

• Low mass

• Accurate temperature readings - sensors can be comparison tested with N.I.S.T. traceable standards

• Low cost

Food Preparation:  This application requires flexibility in point placement and consistency of readings.  This allows even temperatures in baking or chilling operations to be monitored for product uniformity.