A thermocouple is a sensor, used to measure temperature in combination with a temperature indicator or controller.

Made of two wires of different metals and welded together at one end, any change of temperature detected by the two welded pieces – known as a ‘junction’ – creates a voltage which is interpreted by the thermocouple to calculate temperature.

There are many types of thermocouples, each with their own characteristics.  The types commonly used for ceramics are R, S and K.  R and S are “Noble Metal” thermocouples used for high temperature applications, which can be up to 1600°C in continuous use.  This is ideal for stoneware temperatures up to 1300°C.  This should mean that R and S type thermocouples have a long-life expectancy.  K type is a “Base Metal” thermocouple, which is designed for continuous use up to 1100°C.  Generally, it is advised not to use K type over 1200°C, but this has become confused in recent years as American top-loading kilns are often supplied with "K" type thermocouples that is suggested can be used to fire to stoneware temperatures.  R and S type are made using Platinum and Rhodium wires, where K type uses Nickel/Chromium and Nickel/Alumel.  If these wires are extracted from the porcelain sheath it can be seen that they run in porcelain beads.

The P-bracket is the cheapest type of head. The cold junction is fixed to a small bracket and exposed. The type of thermocouple will normally be placed through the wall of the kiln from within the terminal housing. This type of head is normally found on Potterycraft and Northern Kiln.

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