A temperature controller, as the name implies, is a device that regulates the temperature. It accomplishes this by measuring the temperature and comparing it to the required value. The difference between these two numbers is then determined. Temperature controllers are important to ensure safe and effective operation and to prevent damage to any of the parts. For instance, if the heat levels are outside a set range, the system may fail, leading to excessive downtime, additional labor needs and added costs.
Types of temperature controllers
The 3 general types of temperature controllers used to monitor temperature are on-off, proportional and PID controllers. The operator will use either type to control the process depending upon the system that needs to be controlled.
On-off controllers:
In the on-off control method, the output control is carried out by the on/off or full output. When the process value reaches the set value, the output control is turned off, and when the process value falls below the set value, the output control is turned on. The temperature will fluctuate unpredictably as a result of this strategy. Most temperature controllers in a household heating system use this system.
Proportional control:
Proportional control is a type of control system that responds proportionally to the difference between the desired process variable (or set point) and the current value of the variable.
Proportional-Integral-Derivative or PID control:
In industrial applications, a PID is a type of device that is used to control various process variables such as pressure, flow, temperature and speed. A control loop feedback device is utilized to govern all process variables in this controller.
Applications of temperature controllers
Temperature controllers with sensors are important in industrial, commercial and residential applications. The purpose of having a temperature controller is to measure and control the temperature levels within a capacity to achieve the desired state. Temperature controllers are crucial for accomplishing and sustaining safe operations, especially in industrial sectors such as research and development centers, laboratories and processing plants.
Temperature controls are used in a wide range of applications and processes in the industrial sector. Some examples are given below:
- Managing temperatures during heat treating and other oven-based operations
- Integration into boilers, furnaces, heat exchangers and kilns
- Regulating temperature levels in heat-based packaging equipment, such as glue application, hot melt, sealing and shrink-wrapping systems
- Producing plastic equipment such as molding and extrusion systems, chillers, and dryers to ensure that the completed products meet client demands and industry standards
- Also used in the healthcare business to ensure that laboratory and test equipment, such as autoclaves, crystallization chambers, incubators and refrigerators are at the right temperatures for storing and processing samples and specimens
Nexthermal
Temperature controllers are an essential component of industrial heating applications that ensure optimal performance, safety and operational efficiency. Nexthermal is a collaborative electric heater manufacturing firm with a passion for customizing electric heaters, systems and components.
If you need temperature controllers for your facility, turn to the experts at Nexthermal. Nexthermal is a leader in designing efficient heaters. We can assist you in selecting and designing the temperature controller that is right for you.
For individuals who require portability, flexibility and accuracy in their application, Nexthermal has developed a unique PID controller solution. Our controller also has the added benefit of allowing you to monitor stats on your phone app, allowing you to make data-driven decisions in real-time.
