The ‘Isotech Model 881 Dual Heatpipe Thermocouple Homogeneity Scanner’ provides a fully automated solution to the problem of measuring thermocouple homogeneity.

The operation of a thermocouple relies on the Seebeck effect which causes an emf to be generated in any region of a thermo element that is exposed to a temperature gradient. Undesirably, nearly all thermocouples develop non-uniformities (inhomogeneities) in their thermoelements during normal use.

If one is to assess the accuracy of a thermocouple, then the inhomogeneity of the thermocouple is a major concern. Increasingly, users and laboratories want to be able to measure thermocouple inhomogeneity.

The scanner can be used to determine:

• If wire/cable manufacturing processes meet quality standards or tolerances
• Whether a thermocouple is damaged or faulty and unfit for use or calibration