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Accurate fluid temperature measurement in pipelines is essential for process control, energy efficiency, and safety in industrial environments. Traditionally, engineers have relied on thermowells and probe-style sensors to achieve this. However, a revolutionary surface-mounted solution—thermal-ribbon RTDs (resistance temperature detectors)—offers a better way to measure pipe temperature with fewer installation challenges and greater efficiency.

What Are Thermal-Ribbon RTDs?

Thermal-ribbons are flexible, surface-mount temperature sensors designed to measure pipe temperatures without penetrating the fluid stream. Built with flat wire-wound elements laminated between thin electrical insulation layers, they offer several performance advantages:

• Superior surface conformity with no air gaps

• Reduced thermal gradient for accurate readings

• Wider sensing area for lower point-measurement error

• Minimal self-heating effects

Surface vs. Immersion Sensing: What's the Difference?

When sensing fluid temperature, location matters. Immersion sensors often produce skewed results due to heat conduction to the ambient air, especially if the thermowell isn't properly installed. In contrast, thermal-ribbon RTDs are mounted beneath pipe insulation, ensuring accurate surface readings that closely match fluid temperature.

Thermowells vs. Surface Sensors: A Performance Comparison

A recent test comparing thermal-ribbon RTDs to a traditional brass thermowell and a bare probe revealed key performance benefits:

Key takeaway: Thermal-ribbons reached steady-state fluid temperature faster than thermowells, proving both accurate and responsive.

Simplified Installation and Cost Efficiency

Unlike thermowells, which require pipe modifications, specialized labor, and downtime, thermal-ribbon RTDs are simple to install:

• No need to drill or weld pipes

• Mount with PSA (pressure-sensitive adhesive), stretch tape, or RTV cement

• Easily integrated into existing insulation

• Lower total installation and maintenance cost

Installation Tips for Optimal Performance

• Ensure tight contact between the thermal-ribbon and pipe

• Always re-insulate after installation to prevent ambient cooling

• Secure lead wires to avoid strain and heat conduction errors

• Use 3- or 4-wire circuits to offset leadwire resistance in long runs

Why Choose Thermal-Ribbons?

Thermal-ribbon RTDs deliver accurate, responsive, and cost-effective temperature sensing—without interrupting system operation. They are especially ideal for retrofit installations, space-constrained environments, and high-precision applications.

Ready to upgrade your temperature sensing technology?
Explore Minco's line of thermal-ribbon RTDs and streamline your process control systems with reliable surface-mounted sensors shown here