Replaces our standard type k thermocouples
The standard thermocouple used on the DynaTrol is Type K. The most common thermocouple configuration that we use is an 8 gauge exposed Type K thermocouple covered by a mullite ceramic protection tube (standard on Easy-Fire, Jupiter, Liberty-Belle, School-Master, Doll and DaVinci).
The best high temperature thermocouple is a type S
- The very best thermocouple for constant high fire applications is a Type S platinum thermocouple with an alumina sheath.
- This is normally only recommended for the most extreme conditions (like firing crystalline glazes) because of its expense - or if the value or precision of your work is such that you do not want to risk thermocouple drift.
- You can special order a DynaTrol with Type S thermocouples. They are not available for the One-Touch™ control.
Technical information
- Type S thermocouples are composed of a positive leg which is 90% platinum and 10% Rhodium, and a negative leg which is 100% platinum.
- It is usable from 32°F to 2700°F. (0°C to 1480°C).
- It has a different EMF output than Type K thermocouples (meaning the same temperature will produce different voltages to the control which must then be interpreted differently).
- That different scale requires both a simple hardware configuration change and a software change to take effect so it can not be done inadvertently.
- At temperatures used in pottery kilns (even the highest 2350°F) these thermocouples can last for a very long time (as long as they are not mechanically broken).
Retrofitting a control with type k thermocouples
- This is not a retrofittable option on DynaTrols used before Jan 1, 2006.
- On the newer 700 DynaTrol boards it is possible to switch from Type K to Type S with a programming change and a jumper change.
- You MUST also change the thermocouple extension wire from Type K wire to Type S wire.
Description
- The Type S thermocouples that we provide have a 5/16" OD alumina sheath.
- They are ungrounded.
- There are two lengths: 120mm (4.75") and 160mm (6.3")
- Termination is in a ceramic terminal block.
Which thermocouples are used on which kilns
- One 120mm thermocouple is used on the Doll
- Two 120mm thermocouples are used for any two section (18" high) Easy-Fire, Jupiter, eFL Series or DaVinci kiln
- Three 120mm thermocouples on all other Easy-Fire, Jupiter, eFL Series or Davinci kilns.
- EL2424 kilns use two. EL2427 and all other Easy-Load kilns use three. All front-loading kilns use 160mm TCs.
- Type S thermocouples are not available on the School-Master, Liberty-Belle, Doll or Renaissance kilns if fitted with a Bartlett 3 Button control or the One-Touch™ control.
- These are included as standard equipment on the JH Series Kilns.
Important Note
- If you have a Type S thermocouple or are retrofitting an older kiln with a Type S thermocouple the control must be configured for use with Type S thermocouples. If not the kiln could seriously overfire and melt down. See this for more information...
