Thermocouple Disconnects

[MJK]

I have an application that requires 40 type K thermocouples to be quick disconnected for equipment maintenance. I want to use four 24 pin connectors and box receptacles with gold pins and sockets. The type K thermocouple wire will be on both sides of the connection (Chromega+,Alomega-). As long as each pair of gold pins remain equal in themperature I should have offsetting junction voltages, and therefore no error in signal. I would appreciate a thought check on this, is it typical? Thanks in advance.

 

[buzzp]

That may work for a while but what about corrosion? Will the gold contacts corrode over time? Or are these sealed connections?

 

[electricpete]

I agree with your statement: "As long as each pair of gold pins remain equal in themperature I should have offsetting junction voltages, and therefore no error in signal."

 

[busbar]

Compatible circuit-board connectors don't seem obscenely expensive:

http://www.omega.com/ppt/pptsc.asp?ref=PCC-OST-SMP&Nav=temg03

 

[MJK]

Functionality and expense are the main issues here. I am using sealed connections to minimize galvanic corrosion at the junctions. I believe the $1/gold pin vs. $25/TC pin justifies this approach. I appreciate your responses.

 

[cbarn24050]

Hi, this king of arrange ment was common in temerature controllers, the main problem is joining the thermocouple wires to the pins as you can't solder them.

 

[busbar]

MJK, maybe I misread it, but the price looks closer to $2/2-pin connector.

 

[MJK]

busbar, let me clarify the connectors: MTC-24 pin, 200C. TC wire will be crimped into gold pins.

http://www.newportus.com/Products/AccCalib/MTC.htm