Install the effective thermowell for industrial practice

In order to safeguard the temperature sensors mounted in industrial procedures, thermowells are widely used in factories or manufacturing units. A process stream where a temperature sensor is required has a one closed-ended tube mounted in it.  From the open end of the tube, the sensors like thermocouple, thermometer or temperature detector are inserted, which usually remains in the open air in the absence of the thermowell. Hence in simple terms, we can say that a thermowell protects the temperature detectors from the outside air so that the instrument can detect the exact temperature of the fluid flowing in the process stream. 

Let’s have a look at the functioning of the thermowells.

How does it work?

As thermowell is mounted in the process stream, it comes in direct contact of the heat transferred from the fluid in the stream. The heat flows inside the pipe containing the temperature sensor. The heat gets accumulated in the pipe and allows the sensor to detect the temperature at the highest point. As the senor is not in direct contact of the outside air, it takes enough time to detect the temperature and displays the exact value.

Replacement of a failed sensor is also an easy ask even if it is enclosed in a thermowell because there is no need of draining the pipe during the process. However, for the proper functioning of the sensor and to measure the average temperature of the fluid, the diameter of the thermowell should be slightly extended from the internal diameter of the process tube.

Using a flanged connector or a welded tube fitting, a thermowell is carefully mounted into the process pipe.

Construction and material of thermowell

A metal bar is typically used to construct an effective thermowell. This tube construction is able to protect the temperature detector high process pressure, effects of fluid chemicals and forces induced by the flow. In order to enhance the response speed, the thermowell end is constructed at fewer diameters.

Teflon coated stainless steel metal is also widely used to make thermowells to avoid corrosion from the fluids. While there is small pressure differential and high temperature, along with thermocouple element, a protective tube is used. This protective tube is usually constructed with ceramic and alumina to avoid chemical effect of thermocouple element. For extra protection, this tube is inserted within a heavy protected tube made of silicon carbide.

How to get the best installation?

As there are many online dealers available for thermowells, you can choose any one of them to get them installed for your manufacturing unit. However, selection of the best dealer or installer is not an easy task as this is a highly commercial and technical process, which requires great expertise. It is advisable to choose the installer that completely understands your requirement and has the best thermowell constructed with sturdy material.

You can even ask the installer to make a prior visit to your factory for inspection of your process stream. This would make it easy for both the parties to comprehend the exact requirement of the process.