Spring-Loaded Thermocouple
A Spring-Loaded Thermocouple is a sheathed temperature sensor designed for reliable surface temperature measurement on molds, machinery, bearings, heating equipment, and other industrial surfaces. A compression spring keeps the measuring tip firmly against the target surface, compensating for installation gaps and thermal expansion while reducing contact thermal resistance.
The armored probe provides fast response, good vibration resistance, and repeatable measurement. Standard K, J, T, E, and N types are available with Φ3–6 mm probe diameters, M12×1.5 thread mounting, and SS304, SS316, or Inconel 600 sheath options. Probe length, spring travel, thread, cable, and connector can be customized for OEM and replacement applications.
Spring-Loaded Thermocouple Structure
The assembly consists of an armored temperature probe, compression spring, locking nut, threaded mounting seat, and extension lead. The spring is installed around the probe. When the locking nut is tightened, the spring is compressed and continuously pushes the probe tip against the measured surface.
How It Works
Two different metal conductors form a closed thermocouple circuit. When a temperature difference exists between the measuring junction and reference junction, a thermoelectric voltage is generated. The compression spring keeps the measuring tip firmly against the surface, helping maintain stable contact and reduce the effect of installation gaps. The thermoelectric signal is then transmitted to the measuring instrument and converted into a temperature reading.
Key Features
- Spring-loaded contact: Automatically compensates for thermal expansion, contraction, and installation gaps.
- Vibration resistance: Maintains stable probe contact in vibrating equipment and machinery.
- Armored probe: Flexible construction with fast response and good measurement repeatability.
- Simple installation: Threaded mounting and spring compression allow quick installation without welding.
- Surface measurement: Designed for contact temperature measurement and not intended for immersion applications.
Thermocouple Type Selection
For help choosing the right thermocouple type for your application, see our thermocouple selection guide.
| Type | Temperature Range | Common Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Type K | -200°C to 1000°C | Injection molding machines, molds, machinery, heating equipment |
| Type J | -40°C to 750°C | Plastic processing, machinery, industrial equipment |
| Type T | -200°C to 350°C | Low-temperature surface measurement and process equipment |
| Type E | -200°C to 800°C | Testing equipment, machinery, and precision measurement |
| Type N | -200°C to 1000°C | Industrial heating equipment and higher-temperature machinery |
S/R/B types are available by special custom order. Actual operating temperature depends on thermocouple type, sheath material, probe diameter, installation conditions, and service requirements.
Stock Sizes
| Probe Diameter | Probe Extend Length | Spring Travel | Standard Thread | Sheath Material |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Φ3 mm | 15–50 mm | 8–12 mm | M12×1.5 | SS304 / SS316 |
| Φ4 mm | 15–60 mm | 8–12 mm | M12×1.5 | SS304 / SS316 / Inconel 600 |
| Φ5 mm | 20–60 mm | 8–15 mm | M12×1.5 | SS304 / SS316 / Inconel 600 |
| Φ6 mm | 20–80 mm | 8–15 mm | M12×1.5 | SS304 / SS316 / Inconel 600 |
Standard thread is M12×1.5. M10×1.5 and other threads are available by custom order. Probe length can be cut within the stock range; lengths outside the listed range are custom. Standard spring travel is 8–15 mm, with custom spring lengths available.
General Options
| Item | Available Options |
|---|---|
| Probe Diameter | Φ3 mm / Φ4 mm / Φ5 mm / Φ6 mm |
| Probe Length | 10–80 mm; custom lengths available |
| Spring Travel | Standard 8–15 mm; custom spring length available |
| Thread | M12×1.5 standard; M10×1.5 and other threads optional |
| Sheath Material | SS304 / SS316 / Inconel 600 |
| Junction | Grounded standard; Ungrounded optional; exposed junction by special custom order |
| Connection | Flying leads, mini-plug, standard thermocouple connector |
| Lead Wire | Custom length available |
| Cable Shield | Metal braid shield available for flying leads |
| Accuracy | Class 2 standard; Class 1 optional according to IEC 60584-1 |
Temperature and Spring Limits
The thermocouple temperature range depends on the selected thermocouple type and sheath material. The standard spring assembly has a maximum temperature limit of 400°C. For applications above 400°C, high-temperature spring components are required.
| Item | Standard Specification |
|---|---|
| Standard Spring Limit | Up to 400°C |
| Above 400°C | High-temperature spring components required |
| Thermocouple Standard | IEC 60584-1 |
| Accuracy | Class 2 standard / Class 1 optional |
Installation
- Screw the threaded mounting seat into the installation hole and tighten the locking nut.
- The spring is compressed during installation and keeps the probe tip firmly against the measured surface.
- The spring travel can compensate for different installation depths and maintain contact during thermal expansion.
- No welding is required, allowing convenient installation and replacement.
Important: This product is designed for surface contact temperature measurement. Do not insert the probe into a liquid, gas, or other process medium for immersion measurement.
Typical Applications
- Injection molding machines and molds
- Dies and plastic processing equipment
- Extruders
- Packaging machines
- Motor bearings
- Heating equipment surfaces
- Industrial machinery surface temperature measurement
Related Thermocouple Products
Request OEM Support
For OEM or replacement requirements, send us the thermocouple type, probe diameter, probe length, spring travel, thread, sheath material, junction type, connector, lead length, and application details. Drawings, photos, or existing samples are also welcome.
Amy – Sales
Email:
Amy-Easewise@tzheater.com
WhatsApp:
+86 188 8318 8154
Hanna – Sales
Email:
Hanna-Easewise@tzheater.com
WhatsApp:
+86 173 5163 6811
Custom spring-loaded thermocouples are available for OEM and replacement surface temperature measurement.
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