PCE Instruments Contact Thermometers
Contact thermometers measure the temperatures of materials by coming into direct contact with the object. These thermometers feature a temperature probe and display. They can be used to measure a variety of objects, and they are available in a range of styles and sizes to meet various needs.
Configurations of Contact Thermometers to Consider
- Data Logging Digital Thermometers. These digital thermometers store data and record it for future reference and analyzing. Many are compatible with Windows Software, and they are capable of storing thousands of data entries. Data logging thermometers are frequently used in laboratories, audits, and industrial control situations for measuring differential temperature.
- Waterproof Keypad Thermometers. These thermometers are used for applications where the thermometer may come in contact with water or other liquids, such as measuring temperatures in aquariums. The digital thermometers often include multiple mounting options such as suction cup or Velcro mounting tape.
- Wireless Thermometers. Wireless thermometers are used to monitor and measure indoor and outdoor temperatures. They include a remote wireless sensor and base station. Key features include memory and programmable alerts. These thermometers are often CE and ROHS approved.
- Wall Mounted Thermometers. Wall mounted thermometers are used for indoor and outdoor applications and sometimes monitor additional parameters such as humidity and IAQ. Some also feature a carbon dioxide alarm.
- Stem Thermometers. Stem thermometers are ideal for Food Preparation, Household Use, Manufacturing, Photography, Hobbyists, Automotive Repair, Heating and Refrigeration. They come in a variety of styles and sizes, such as corkscrew stem and T-Bar stem. These digital thermometers are capable of measuring extremely cold as well as extremely hot temperatures. Waterproof options are available.
- Flat Surface Stem Dial Thermometer. These thermometers measure temperatures on flat surfaces such as grills and motors. They can be used in liquids, semi-solids, and solids. They are perfect for measuring temperatures in HVAC applications, such as air ducts, vents, and heaters.
- Infrared Thermometers. Some non-contact IR thermometers can also be used as contact thermometers. They come with temperature probes for contact readings.
- Bimetal Thermometers are mechanical thermometers with two dissimilar metals that expand and contract in a a consist manor with temperature changes and this change can drive a needle. Download a bimetal thermometer selection guide here: Bimetal Thermometer Selection Criteria by Ashcroft. Download an accuracy discussion of bimetal thermometers here: Bimetal Thermometer Accuracy Definitions by Ashcroft
Temperature Probes. Temperature probes are metal thermometers used to measure the temperature of a specific environment, such as a piece of meat or a liquid. They are often used in food preparations and laboratories. Many accessories are available, and they come in a variety of styles and sizes to meet a range of needs. T-handle temperature probes make it easier to hold while jabbing. Bead type temperature probes can be snaked around objects. Half-pipe shaped temperature probes fit around the circumference of pipes. When choosing a temperature probe, it is important to consider how the device will be used.
Find these accessory probes here: Products > Accessories > Probes >
Temperature Probes
High Accuracy Secondary Thermometers vs. Primary Contact Thermometers
There are two main types of thermometers: primary and secondary. Which category the thermometer fits in depends on how the temperature measurement is calculated.
The most common type is high accuracy secondary thermometers. They are widely used because of their convenience and accuracy. These types of thermometers must be calibrated against a primary thermometer.
Primary thermometers are more complex than secondary thermometers. These thermometers calculate temperature without any unknown quantities because the measured matter is so well known. For instance, these thermometers may be based on the equation of the state of a gas, on the velocity of sound in a gas, on the thermal noise, or other complex equations.
Key Features of Contact Thermometers to Consider
- LED back light
- Multiple channel input
- Auto Range
- RS-232 Interface
- Windows Software
- Data Logging
- Auto Power Off
- HOLD Function
- Displays ambient and remote temperature
- Min/Max temperature memory
- High/Low temperature alarm
- °F and °C selectable
- Up to three wireless sensors may be used with base station
- Additional sensors available
- Jumbo display
- Food Safe Stainless Steel Probe
- Instant Read
- Flat-edge, anti-roll design
- Fold up probe adjusts from 0° to 180° for best measurement and viewing angle
- Temperature differential: T1-T2
- Compatible with Popular Types K, J, T, E and/or R thermocouples
- Dishwasher-safe
- Includes Certificate of Traceable Calibration
- ROHS, CE, and WEEE approved
- Meets GMPs and HACCP requirements set by the FDA
- Relative time clock on MIN, MAX, and AVG provides a time reference for major events
- Dual temperature for easy Super-Heat and Sub-Cool calculations