Compensation wires play a crucial role in temperature measurement systems, particularly in thermocouple applications. Here’s an overview of their functions:

Function of Compensation Wire

1. Signal Conditioning

• Compensation wires connect the thermocouple to the measuring instrument. They carry the small voltage signals generated by the thermocouple to the reading device.

2. Temperature Reference Point

• They help maintain a stable reference temperature (typically at the cold junction) in the measurement system. This is essential for accurate temperature readings since thermocouples generate a voltage based on the temperature difference between the measuring junction and the reference junction.

3. Minimizing Errors

• Compensation wires are made from materials with similar thermoelectric properties to the thermocouple itself. This helps minimize errors caused by the differences in thermal characteristics and reduces the impact of ambient temperature changes on the signal.

4. Extending Measurement Range

• By using compensation wires, thermocouples can be extended over longer distances from the measuring instrument without significant loss of accuracy, enabling versatile installation in various environments.

5. Temperature Calibration

• Compensation wires ensure that the calibration of the thermocouple remains valid over the operational range by helping to accurately measure and reference temperature at the cold junction.