Role of Boiler Thermocouple in Heating Systems

A boiler thermocouple is an essential safety device that is widely used for the safety of heating systems and the manufacturing plant. The primary role of the boiler thermocouple is to measure the temperature within the boiler and maintain efficiency and uniformity of the temperature within the boiler.

Thermocouple design

A thermocouple is generally made of two dissimilar metals joined together. When the junction of the thermocouple device is heated, it produces a voltage that corresponds to the temperature. These devices are available in different material combinations and calibrations for various temperature ranges. Thermocouples suitability for an application mainly depends on the operating temperature and conditions for which it will be used. The thermocouple is designed to bend when heat is applied which in turn switches the boiler on or off.

Thermocouple versus RTD

Although a thermocouple and resistance temperature detectors (RTD) have similar functions, a thermocouple is preferable over a RTD in a boiler. RTD’s are not suitable for high vibration or high temperatures such as in areas of steam generation. Thermocouples are more suited to handling high temperatures and vibrations in various heating processes. If you are looking to order boiler thermocouple, here are two important factors to focus on:

Category

Thermocouples are available in different types with the most common being an interrupted thermocouple. Unlike regular thermocouples, the interrupted thermocouple runs via an additional safety device such as a TTB switch or overheat stat. In an interrupted thermocouple, if the overheat stat is activated; the electrical current running through the thermocouple is cut, which stops the magnetic field in the gas pack, which in turn closes the gas valve.

Material

The material is an important factor you need to consider when you order boiler thermocouple. The thermocouple is generally made of copper but some thermocouples have an EPDM gasket that is useful for certain applications. The thermocouple gasket is installed between two ferrules along with a thermocouple clamp.

A thermocouple works to control the flow of gas in the boiler and prevents wastage of gas when the temperature reaches a certain level. Similarly, an oil control valve or oil float switches also plays an important function in manufacturing and petrochemical industries. If you are looking to buy Aga oil control valve, here are some important things you should know.

What Are Float Oil Valves Used For?

A float oil valve is a sensor with an electrical contact output at a particular liquid level. Some of the applications of float oil valves are valve control, level control, oil level control, condensate tanks, de-aerators, drip legs, and boilers. The float oil valves have an open and closed circuit that is activated as oil levels increases or falls. The opening and closing circuits of the oil control valve is used to turn the oil pump on or off.

Other factors to consider when you plan to buy Aga oil control valve are:

Flow Rate

This is the most important characteristic of the oil control valve. You can buy valves of different flow rates starting from 8cc/min to 19cc/min. You need to ensure the flow rate of the valve suits your appliance. If you are unsure about the right flow rate, you need to contact the manufacturer of the appliance and get the required information.

Fuel Type

There are mainly two types of fuels supported by an oil float valve - kerosene and diesel. You need to choose the oil valve for the right fuel type depending upon the application.

Outlet Type

There are two different outlet types available in an oil float valve. The right outlet type depends on the layout of the piping and position of the oil float valve in the application.

The factors mentioned above play an important part in selection of the right boiler thermocouple and oil control valves.