What temperature do thermocouples show? Static or Total?

In summary, thermocouples can measure both static and total temperature, but the temperature it measures depends on its placement and the flow conditions. Total temperature is defined as the sum of static and dynamic temperature, and can be calculated using the formula Q(dot) = m(dot) * C_p * (T2 - T1), where gamma is the ratio of specific heats and M_a is the Mach number. However, if the hot junction is moving at Mach 1 relative to the cold junction, the thermocouple will measure the temperature at its junction, which may not be an accurate representation of the total temperature.
  • #1
Omish
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What temperature does thermocouples show? Static or Total?
And also in formulas for example Q(dot) = m(dot) * C_p * (T2 - T1) which temperature should be used precisely?
 
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  • #2
What is the difference between static and dynamic temperature?
 
  • #3
nasu said:
What is the difference between static and dynamic temperature?

I'm sorry .I should have actually said "Total" and I corrected it. Total temperature is (if I'm not mistaken) Static + Dynamic temperature, and total temperature itself is defined like this:
upload_2016-8-12_21-47-52.png

where gamma is the ratio of specific heats and M_a is Mach number.
 
  • #4
I think they show the difference in temp between the hot and the cold junction.
 
  • #5
Omish said:
What temperature does thermocouples show? Static or Total?
And also in formulas for example Q(dot) = m(dot) * C_p * (T2 - T1) which temperature should be used precisely?
How do you contrive to wire up a thermocouple where the hot junction is moving at mach 1 relative to the cold junction?
 
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  • #6
It will measure whatever temperature it is subjected to at its junction. Exactly what temperature that is in the sense of a compressible flow depends on how you have it situated. If you can find a way to place a thermocouple into a flow without stagnating the fluid, then congratulations on that.

Generally, though, placing an object in the flow bring a its velocity to zero and you measure something higher than static temperature. Unfortunately (for the sake of convenience), as the Mach number increases, the temperature you measure is increasingly different from the total temperature, and is instead going to be the so-called recovery temperature.
 

Related to What temperature do thermocouples show? Static or Total?

1. What is a thermocouple and how does it measure temperature?

A thermocouple is a type of temperature sensor that works by measuring the voltage produced when two different metals are joined together. As temperature changes, the voltage produced by the thermocouple also changes, allowing it to accurately measure temperature.

2. What temperature does a thermocouple show?

A thermocouple can measure a wide range of temperatures, from very low (-270°C) to very high (over 2000°C). The specific temperature range depends on the type of thermocouple and the materials used.

3. Does a thermocouple show static or total temperature?

A thermocouple measures static temperature, also known as local temperature. This means that it measures the temperature at a specific point in space, rather than the overall or average temperature of a system.

4. How accurate are thermocouples in measuring temperature?

The accuracy of a thermocouple depends on various factors such as the type of thermocouple, the materials used, and the calibration process. Generally, thermocouples have an accuracy of around ±1°C to ±2.5°C, making them suitable for most temperature measurement applications.

5. Can thermocouples be used in extreme temperatures?

Yes, thermocouples can be used in extreme temperatures, both very high and very low. However, the type of thermocouple and the materials used may need to be carefully selected to ensure accuracy and durability in these extreme conditions.

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