Generally, pressure sensors fall into two different categories – non-contact and contact. Sensors that measure temperature have issues with their accuracy. However, it is important to recognise that the inconsistency estimates should be precise. You will also need to take many readings to get a final result with decent levels of precision.
Calibrating the temperature sensors is important, irrespective of whether it is a non-contact or contact temperature sensor. By calibrating the temperature sensors, you can greatly minimise the inconsistencies in the readings, thus making your measurements more accurate. This is a fundamental and important process prior to taking any measurements.
Contact temperature sensors measure their own temperature at any given point of time. This is usually done by creating a thermal equilibrium between the substance being measured and the sensor. In simple words, thermal equilibrium means there is no flow of heat between two bodies, thus both have the same temperature.
Contact sensors are standard for measuring temperature in science and industry. Thermometers and thermocouples are two types of contact sensors that are presently available. Basically, thermocouples utilise an electric current with a particular resistance level through which variations of the resistance can be used for measuring the temperature. This is termed the ‘Seebeck effect’. If you want to measure the temperature at any given point of time, non-contact or contact sensors may suit your requirements.
