What Are Reference Thermometers?
TL;DR — Quick Summary
- Reference thermometers are ultra-precise temperature sensors calibrated to UKAS standards.
- They are used to check and calibrate other temperature sensors by comparison in stable heat sources.
- Typically supplied with high-accuracy probes, handheld readers, and official calibration certificates.
- Crucial for ensuring temperature measurement accuracy in critical industries.
What Are Reference Thermometers?
Reference thermometers are highly precise temperature sensors used primarily for calibration and verification purposes. These instruments often come paired with hand-held readout devices and are calibrated to the strictest standards, such as UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service), ensuring maximum accuracy.
Why Use a Reference Thermometer?
In industrial and laboratory settings, ensuring temperature sensor accuracy is critical. A reference thermometer acts as a benchmark. When calibrating other temperature sensors, both the reference thermometer and the sensor under test are placed in a stable temperature environment — such as a water bath or dry block calibrator. The readings from the test sensor are then compared against the reference thermometer to verify and adjust the sensor’s accuracy.
Key Features of Reference Thermometers
- High Accuracy: Calibrated to UKAS standards for reliable precision.
- Stable Measurement: Used in conjunction with controlled temperature sources.
- Complete Calibration Kit: Often supplied with a precision Pt100 1/10th DIN probe and a hand-held readout instrument.
- Traceability: Comes with multi-point UKAS calibration certificates, commonly 5-point, confirming performance across a range of temperatures.
Applications
Reference thermometers are essential in industries where temperature control and accuracy are paramount, including aerospace, pharmaceuticals, food processing, and manufacturing quality control.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes a reference thermometer different from a regular temperature sensor?
Reference thermometers are calibrated to the highest standards (such as UKAS), ensuring their accuracy can be trusted as a benchmark, whereas regular sensors may not have this level of calibration.
What is UKAS calibration?
UKAS stands for United Kingdom Accreditation Service, the official body for accrediting calibration labs. UKAS calibration ensures the thermometer’s accuracy is traceable to national standards.
How do I use a reference thermometer to calibrate other sensors?
Place the reference thermometer and the sensor to be tested in the same stable temperature environment, such as a water bath. Compare their readings to identify any discrepancies.
What type of probe is commonly used with reference thermometers?
A Pt100 1/10th DIN probe is commonly used due to its high stability and accuracy.
Can I purchase reference thermometers ready to use?
Yes, many suppliers offer precision reference thermometer kits with probes, handheld readers, and UKAS calibration certificates for immediate use.
If you want to order a temperature sensor or you are unsure exactly what you need, get in touch and we can help you.