Temperature Sensors and Controllers for Cartridge Heaters

The sensor for the control of part temperature is an important factor in application design. Sensors should be placed between the working surface of the part and the heaters. Measuring the temperature of the part approximately 1/2” away from the heaters is generally recommended. Note that this value was used to develop the Fit Graph that is commonly used in the election of the maximum allowable Watt density (see Frequently Asked Questions on the next page). Depending on the application, there are a variety of other temperature sensors and controllers that can be used. One of the more popular sensor types used for cartridge heater applications are surface mount sensors. Thermocouples,RTDs and Thermistors are available with either an adhesive backing or the ability to be cemented to the surface being heated. There are also bolt on and magnetic surface mount type sensors available.