General information

Heraeus Sensor Technology USA supplies three basic types of platinum resistance elements:

 

Thin film elements are constructed by depositing a sensing layer of platinum on a ceramic substrate. Thin film elements offer the advantages of small size and a wide choice of resistance values ranging from 6.8 to 10000 ohms. Thin-film elements are available in both leaded and SMD versions.

 

Ceramic wire wound elements consist of a ceramic body with the platinum resistance wire encapsulated in longitudinal bore holes, and sealed with a high-temperature material. The larger mass (compared to thin-film elements) allows the use of higher source currents.

 

Glass wire wound elements with the platinum resistance wire embedded in a glass matrix, are suitable for use in harsh conditions. Some types may be used in direct contact with liquids.

 

A wide range of sizes, resistance values, and operating temperature ranges are available.

 

Standard and customer-specific designs are available for a variety of applications.

Several factors need to be considered when using platinum resistance elements in assemblies.

The reference tables conform to the International Industrial Standard IEC 60751

Platinum resistance elements can be supplied to a Class B tolerance (as per IEC 60751 & DIN EN60751). For applications calling for exceptional accuracy, tighter tolerances such as class A, 1/3 Class B, and 1/10 Class B are also available

Values for response times in water and air are stated in the tables on each product data sheet. Thin-film platinum resistance elements have exceptionally short response times. 

Like all resistive elements through which a current flows, platinum resistance elements are slightly heated by the current.  The magnitude of this "self-heating error" is dependent upon on the electrical energy input (N=I2 x R), the volume of heat being dissipated, and a component constant. The self heating constant for each resistance element when used in water or air is shown in the tables on each product page.

Pt resistance elements have exceptional long-term stability at the upper temperature limit, compared to other types of temperature sensors.

Standard types of elements are available in stock and at competitive prices.
For special applications, non-standard versions are available with the following options:

 

• Dimensions
• Nominal resistances
• Temperature coefficients
• Connection lead lengths
• Tolerances