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01 2025
Melt Temperature Sensor
Melt temperature sensors are devices designed to precisely measure the temperature of molten material in industrial applications such as the shaping of strip plastic or metal materials. These sensors are typically used in manufacturing processes such as injection molding, extrusion, and light casting. Maintaining the correct temperature of the molten material is a critical factor for both product quality and equipment durability.
Melt temperature sensors are a temperature-sensing device typically used to measure the temperature of hot and viscous materials such as molten polymers or metal alloys. These sensors are typically equipped with thermocouple or resistance thermometer (RTD) technology. Precise temperature control of the molten material is vital to ensure material performance and manufacturing process stability.
Main Parts:
Temperature Sensing Element: Usually thermocouple (type T, J, K, or E) or RTD (usually PT100).
Pressure-Resistant Housing: Designed to withstand the intense pressure and temperature of the molten material.
Connection Elements: In most cases, the sensor can be mounted on an extrusion or injection molding machine.
Electrical Output: It transmits temperature information with an analog (mV or mA) or digital (RS485, Modbus) signal.
How Does It Work?
A melt temperature sensor is placed in a process line where the molten material is located and detects the temperature of the material. The sensor is usually encased in durable metals (such as stainless steel) to withstand the violent flow of the molten material.
Thermocouple-Based Sensors:
It measures temperature by creating an electrical potential at the point where two different metals meet.
It responds quickly and can operate over a wide temperature range.
RTD-Based Sensors:
It uses a sensitive platinum sensor whose resistance changes with increasing temperature.
It provides higher sensitivity and stability.
Areas of Use
Plastics Industry: To control the temperature of molten polymers in injection molding, film production and extrusion lines.
Metal Industry: In measuring molten metal alloys.
Chemical Industry: Chemical reactions operating at high temperatures.
Food Industry: In the shaping of food-grade plastic packaging.
Things to Consider
Temperature Range: Make sure that the environment in which the sensor will operate is suitable for the temperature values.
Material Compatibility: The sensor material must be resistant to the chemical structure of the melted materials.
Mounting: Proper mounting of the sensor for the process affects performance.
Calibration: Periodic calibration is required for accurate measurement.
Melt temperature sensors are vital devices that provide precise temperature control in production processes. Thanks to their sensitivity, durability and ability to adapt to different operating environments, they can be used in a wide range of applications from plastic to metal. It is expected that these sensors will become more efficient and sensitive with technological developments.