Abstract: A strain-resistant resistance temperature element for a temperature averaging sensor and apparatus for producing same. Highly sensitive thin metal wire, typically of platinum, is attached to both sides of a high temperature, pliable yet stretch/strain resistant tape. A somewhat wider tape of similar description is then applied to both sides of the tape containing the sensor wire. As a result, a highly pliable, yet stretch/strain resistant resistance temperature detector is provided. The major advantages of the invention being that the resistance temperature detector (RTD) of the instant invention is provided substantial strain relief and, therefore, will overcome the problems of prior art sensors, which broke 100% of the time after a minimal period of use. Further, the RTD of the present invention may be pulled through the plastic tubing used to shelter the RTDs from the material being measured, without fear of breaking.

Abstract: There is provided a method for assembly of temperature probes. An insertion element or sensor such as a resistance temperature detector is mounted in a receiving cavity and surrounded by sufficient packing to electrically insulate the sensor. A stalk is utilized as a conduit for routing and insulating lead wires through the support casing. The stalk is notched at a point to facilitate the connection of wires threaded through the stalk to the sensor wires and to minimize the inadvertent contact of these wires with the metallic surfaces. The notch in the stalk protects the junction from contact with the metallic sides of the guide walls and protects the junction from mechanical stresses. To further protect the junction of the lead and sensor wires, the sensor is placed adjacent and parallel to the stalk prior to insertion. The stalk and the sensor are inserted simultaneously with the stalk coming to rest before the sensor travel stops, thereby minimizing the stresses to the junction.

Abstract: There is provided a temperature probe for measuring the temperature of the probe's surroundings and including a tip casing having an interior casing cavity in fluid communication with the probe's surroundings and at least one interior wall cavity located with respect to the interior casing cavity to facilitate heat transfer between the two cavities. A sensor such as a resistance temperature detector is mounted in the interior wall cavity and surrounded by sufficient packing to electrically insulate the sensor from the tip casing wall. A support casing is mated to one end of the tip casing with at least that portion of the support casing adjacent to the tip casing having an effective thermal conductivity lower than that of the tip casing. A heat dissipation mechanism such as a plurality of fins attached to the support casing may also be provided to limit heat transfer down the length of the support casing from the tip casing.