Gas Network Resistance Temperature Detector (RTD)

Through our partnership with H & B Sensors, Fluidic offer a range of Resistance Temperature Detector (RTD) temperature sensors, including clamp on types specifically designed for use in gas distribution networks.  RTDs are accurate, stable temperature measurement devices that provide a resistance output that changes with temperature.  A variety of materials and versions are available.  By far the most common RTD Fluidic supply is the platinum resistor type, Pt100.  A Pt100 is also defined by its resistance at 0C, i.e. 100hms.  The resistance value at each temperature point is compliant with a regulated standard.  The European standard for Pt100 is IEC 60751.

Clamp on RTD sensors for the gas distribution network come in a variety of options.  Typical choices include:

• Accuracy class, (A, B, 1/10 DIN or 1/3 DIN)
• Resistor material (although platinum, specifically Pt100, is most common for its stability)
• Probe lengths, materials and diameters
• ATEX or Hazardous Area requirements (the RTD itself is commonly used as simple apparatus, but we can supply in an Exd enclosure or fitted to an Exia transmitter).
• Up to 4 wire design for accuracy via lead wire compensation
• Duplex design (i.e. 8 core of 2x 4 wire Pt100) for redundancy
• Stainless Steel armoured conduit cables, 8 core 19/0.2 PFA/SCRN/PFA cable or PVC sleeves for moisture ingress protection and rodent damage prevention.

Through our H&B Sensors partnership, Fluidic also offer insulation jackets to go over the clamp on temperature sensor.  By insulating correctly, effects of thermal convection from the outside environment can be mitigated, ensuring an accurate and reliable temperature measurement.

As the output of a RTD is resistance dependant, consideration should be given to the lead wires within the probe from the sensor itself.  For this reason, Fluidic more commonly supply 3 or 4 wire RTD sensors.  The 3rd and 4th wires are used for resistance compensation.  Where the signal is to travel any distance, Fluidic recommend the use of a 4/20mA transmitter.  We supply various transmitter options and can supply the transmitter and RTD temperature sensor pre-assembled.

Fluidic are the Scottish and Northern England partner for H&B Sensors.  We also have an exclusive agreement for supply to the UK nuclear industry.  Our instrumentation engineers are product trained and are able to help with instrument selection within the full H&B Sensors supply scope.  Most products can be custom made for application.  Please call either office for more information (Glasgow 0141 641 5920,  Warrington 01925 572401).