304 Fiberglass Insulation for Thermocouple Wire & Cable (900°F)
The 304 series is a cost-effective and versatile insulation material for thermocouple wire. Each conductor is glass braided, color-coded, and impregnated with a resin that inhibits fraying and reduces friction. A final layer of fiberglass is applied over the parallel conductors, and a coat of resin is applied.
The 304 series fiberglass insulation offers good temperature resistance, up to 900°F (482°C) for continuous use and 1000°F (538°C) for short bursts. The impregnation resin will burn off a 400°F (204°C). It can be used in a wide range of industrial settings, including furnace survey work, heat-treating applications, foundries, and more.
304 series fiberglass thermocouple wire insulation is available in Type J or Type K thermocouple wire. Solid conductors are the most common, but stranded conductors are available for enhanced flexibility. It is also available with an optional stainless steel overbraid for added abrasion resistance (contact our sales department to learn more).
Advantages of Fiberglass Thermocouple Wire Insulation
Fiberglass thermocouple wire insulation features woven glass fibers impregnated with silicone resin for added strength and moisture resistance. It is lightweight, flexible, and offers good corrosion resistance. Key features of fiberglass thermocouple wire insulation include:- Good temperature resistance: Withstands temperature exposure up to 900°F (482°C) constant and spikes of 1000°F (538°C).
- Good chemical resistance: Resistant to many corrosive chemicals often found in industrial applications.
- Cost-effective: Relatively inexpensive insulation solution
- Optional stainless steel overbraid available for enhanced abrasion resistance
Fiberglass Thermocouple Wire Insulation for Type J & Type K Thermocouples
304 thermocouple wire insulation is used for Type J and Type K thermocouple wire. While both types of thermocouple wire find extensive use across various industries, each type has key differences in their performance and application use.Type J Thermocouple Wire: Low-Temperature Applications
Type J thermocouple wires are made of iron (-) and constantan (+) (a copper-nickel alloy). While Type J is a cost-friendly thermocouple option, it isn't the best choice for harsh environments, as iron is susceptible to oxidation at high temperatures. Key features of Type J thermocouples include:- Temperature range: 32°F to 1382°F (0°C to 750°C)
- More affordable than other types, making it a cost-effective solution for compatible applications
- Not ideal for extremely high temperatures or oxidizing environments
Type K Thermocouple Wire: High-Temperature Applications & Corrosive Environments
Type K thermocouple wire is made of nickel-chromium (+) and nickel-aluminum (-) alloys, making Type K resistant to corrosion and oxidation. Type K thermocouple wire is very versatile and is used across many industries, including high-temperature furnaces, incinerators, wet & humid environments, chemical processing equipment, and more. Key features of Type K thermocouple wire include:- Temperature range: -328°F to 2300°F (-200°C to 1260°C)
- Exceptional versatility
- A great option for high-temperature industrial applications