Thermometrics TC-60 series tube-skin thermocouples are precision-engineered for continuous measurement of tube-wall temperatures in reformers, fired heaters, heat exchangers, and petrochemical furnaces. Welded directly to the tube OD, the sensor monitors metal temperature rather than process fluid temperature — the critical parameter for tube life management.
| Model | Description | Lead/Cable | Head / Fitting | Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TC-60-1 | Tube-Skin Weld-Pad — Bare MIMS Cable | MIMS extension, bare cold end | None — bare cable exit | Direct wiring to junction box; retrofit applications |
| TC-60-2 | Tube-Skin Weld-Pad with Head & Compression Fitting | MIMS to compression fitting | Aluminum connection head, 1/2" NPT | DCS field wiring with local junction box |
| TC-60-3 | Tube-Skin Weld-Pad — Extended MIMS Tail | Extended MIMS, customer-specified length | Custom termination at cold end | Long routing from furnace tube to remote panel |
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| TC Type | Type K (standard) · Type N (high-stability option) |
| Tolerance | ASTM E230 Standard · Special Limits available |
| Pad Material | Inconel 600 (standard) · 316SS for lower-temp service |
| Pad Dimensions | Approx 25mm × 20mm × 2mm; custom to drawing |
| MIMS Cable OD | 1/16" (1.6mm) standard; 1/8" (3.2mm) heavy-duty |
| Sheath Material | Inconel 600 (standard) · 316SS |
| Junction Style | Grounded (welded to pad underside) |
| Max Tube Temperature | 1100°C continuous (Inconel 600 pad) |
| Element Config | Simplex (single) · Duplex (measuring + spare) |
| Weld Method | TIG — AWS D17.1 qualified procedure |
| Calibration | NIST-traceable EMF verification; cert on request |
In fired heaters and reformer furnaces, tube metal temperature is the primary indicator of tube life. Exceeding the metallurgical limit of the tube alloy — even briefly — causes permanent creep damage. Tube-skin thermocouples provide the direct metal temperature measurement that fluid-immersion sensors cannot, enabling operators to manage heat flux and extend tube service life.
Thermometrics can supply TC-60 assemblies with weld-pad pre-tack-welded for customer final-weld, or with pre-welded installation completed in our facility on customer-supplied tube coupons. AWS D17.1 weld procedure qualification documentation available on request.
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