What is an RTD (Resistance Temperature Detector)?

An RTD, or Resistance Temperature Detector, is indeed a temperature sensor that operates based on the principle that the electrical resistance of certain materials changes with temperature. Typically, RTDs are made from pure metals like platinum, which has a predictable and repeatable resistance-temperature relationship.

As the temperature increases, the resistance of the RTD changes in a linear fashion, allowing it to provide accurate and stable temperature readings over a wide range of temperatures. This characteristic makes RTDs highly desirable for applications requiring precise temperature measurements in various industrial processes.

Unlike devices that measure flow rate, speed, or regulate fluid movement, RTDs focus solely on temperature measurement, leveraging their resistance properties to deliver reliable data. Their accuracy, durability, and stability contribute to their popularity in fields such as manufacturing, HVAC, and laboratory settings, making them integral to effective process control systems.