Pt100 sensors, a platinum resistance thermometer

An RTD sensor (Resistance Temperature Detector) is a platinum resistance thermometer, also known as an platinum sensor or PT100 sensor. These sensors have been designed to meet the challenge of accurate temperature. Our range of Pt100 sensors, as well as other platinum RTD’s, allow for accurate sensing at very high and very low temperatures from -200°C up to + 850°C.

PT100 RTD elements measure temperature by the change in resistance values of the platinum wires during heating or cooling. The relationship between resistance and temperature is relatively linear, consistent and measurable and this is what allows for a high degree of accuracy within the chosen temperature range. The popular Pt100 sensor has a resistance of 100 Ohms at 0 °C and Kamet also offers RTD’s with other resistance values: Pt50, Pt200, Pt500, Pt 1000 where the name indicates the resistance value (ohms) at 0 °C

Kamet is the official reseller of Pt100 thin film sensors from Heraeus Nexensos, the world leading company in thin film technology.

Kamet offers a range in design of platinum resistance thermometers made to optimise measurement in a variety of process environments The three main product categories are: SMD, thin film sensors and ceramic wire wound RTD sensors.

Each sensor has advantages and limitations depending on application parameters. Our experienced advisors are on hand to answer your questions and ensure you choose the correct sensor for your specific situation and measurement needs.

• the most broad spectrum, economical platinum RTD sensor
• consist of a very thin layer of platinum deposited on a ceramic substrate
• are the flattest temperature sensor
• give a fast response time
• are durable and have a high vibration resistance
• have a class 1/3 din B in accuracy
• resistance values: Pt50, Pt100, Pt200, Pt500, Pt 1000
• often chosen in high vibration applications such as aerospace and automotive industries

• consist of small coils of ultra thin wire packaged inside a ceramic or glass tube
• are suitable for the thinnest RTD mineral insulated cables
• operate at a wide temperature range.
• have a high level of resistance to thermal shock
• class 1/10 din B in accuracy
• available in resistance values of Pt100 and Pt50
• can be used for measurements in extremely high temperature environments, up to 850 °C
• used in industries such as chemical and power generation

• SMD stands for Surface Mounted Devices
• are specifically designed to fit on PCBs (printed circuit boards)
• form the active measurement element on a PCB
• are mainly used in electronics industry or the semi-conductor industry

• Stator slot RTD’s are key components in the hydroelectric industry, in wind turbines and other generators
• Stator slot style Pt100 sensors in a length of 100mm are commonly used. But also lengths up to 500mm.
• resistances of Pt100, Pt1000, Pt500 and Pt200
• diameters between 8-12mm
• a choice of lead wire materials: silver, nickel or tin plated copper wires in a variety of AWG sizes.
• certified “intrinsically safe” and “increased safety” models for hazardous, explosive environments.

Ultimately the choice of an RTD sensor depends on many specifics. Kamet has been in the high temperature world for many years and has extensive knowledge of the industry and the latest developments. The fact that we supply three different types of platinum temperature sensor makes us your ideal advisor and supplier.

Kamet’s commitment to quality is reflected by our choice to partner with expert suppliers in the field: Heraeus Nexensos (SMD and thin film sensors) and RTD Products (ceramic wire wound sensors).