Temperature Gauges

Temperature Gauges FAQ

A gas-filled thermometer (also known as gas-actuated dial thermometers) is a robust and reliable instrument used for precise temperature measurement in demanding industrial environments. It operates by filling a bulb and capillary system with an inert gas, typically nitrogen or helium, which expands or contracts in response to temperature changes. This variation is transmitted to a bourdon tube or similar pressure-sensing element, converting the pressure change into a readable temperature value on a dial. Gas-filled thermometers are well-suited for high-temperature ranges, rapid response requirements, and long-distance installations, making them ideal for industries such as chemical processing, power generation, and oil and gas. Their durability, wide measurement span, and ability to perform under harsh operating conditions ensure consistent, accurate monitoring where reliability is critical.

A bimetal thermometer is a robust and economical solution for industrial temperature monitoring. It works by bonding two metals with different thermal expansion rates into a single strip. When exposed to temperature changes, the strip bends proportionally, driving a pointer on the dial through a gear mechanism. This simple yet effective design requires no external power and provides dependable on-site readings. Bimetal thermometers are commonly used in pipelines, tanks, HVAC systems, and general process equipment where ruggedness and cost efficiency are critical. Available in back, bottom, or adjustable stem configurations, they provide flexibility across industrial applications. Their low maintenance, durability, and precise performance make them a trusted choice for everyday industrial use.

Gas-filled thermometers offer several advantages over bimetal thermometers in industrial applications. Their primary strength lies in their wide temperature range, typically up to +650 °C, far exceeding the limits of bimetal designs. They also provide faster response times and higher accuracy, especially in extreme or fluctuating conditions. Gas-filled models can be connected to remote dials through capillary tubes, allowing temperature measurement at safe, accessible locations—an option not available with standard bimetal instruments. In addition, they are less affected by vibration and shock, ensuring stable, reliable readings in demanding environments such as power generation, chemical plants, and oil and gas facilities. With the possibility of integrating electrical contacts for process control, gas-filled thermometers not only measure but also help regulate critical operations, making them the preferred choice when precision and durability are essential.

Degrees Celsius (°C) and degrees Fahrenheit (°F) are two common units for measuring temperature, differing in scale and reference points. Celsius, widely used in scientific and industrial applications worldwide, is based on the metric system where 0 °C represents the freezing point of water and 100 °C its boiling point at standard atmospheric pressure. Fahrenheit, still common in the United States, sets water’s freezing point at 32 °F and boiling point at 212 °F. The relationship between the two is linear: °F = (°C × 9/5) + 32. This means a temperature change of 1 °C equals a change of 1.8 °F. Understanding both scales is important in global industries, where equipment, specifications, and safety standards may require conversion to ensure accuracy and consistency in temperature measurement.

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