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Type E Thermocouple - Technical Information

Type E - Nickel-Chromium vs Copper-Nickel, IEC 60584-1

Thermocouple Type E, also known as Chromel-Constantan, this thermocouple is known for its high output - the highest of the commonly used devices, although this is less significant in these days of ultra stable solid state amplifiers. The usable temperature range extends from about -250°C (cryogenic) to 900°C in oxidising or inert atmospheres. Recognised as more stable than Type K, it is therefore more suitable for accurate measurement. However, Type N still ranks higher because of its stability and range.

Type E Thermocouples - Typical Constructions and Styles

Type E Mineral Insulated
Thermocouples
Rugged sensors, ideal for most applications. Vast choice of terminations e.g. pot seals, cables, connectors, heads etc.
Type E Swaged Tip
Thermocouples
Fast response thermocouples ideal for industrial and other applications.
Type E Miniature
Thermocouples
Ideal for precision temperature measurements where minimal displacement and a fast response is required.
Type E Heavy Duty
Thermocouples
For industrial applications such as furnaces, kilns, ovens, boliers, flues etc. Many types of sheath material available.
General Purpose
Type E Thermocouples
A wide range of thermocouples to suit many applications. Hand held, surface, bayonet, bolt, patch styles etc.
ATEX/IECEx Approved
Type E Thermocouples
A large range of thermocouples with a variety of terminations such as pot seal, terminal heads etc.

Type E - Technical Data

Conductor Combination Approximate generated
EMF change in µV
per ºC change
(referenced to 0ºC) at:
Approximate Working
Temperature Range
Thermocouple Output Tolerances
to IEC 60584-1
+ Leg - Leg 100ºC 500ºC 1000ºC Continuous Short Term Type Class 1 Class 2 Class 3
NICKEL - CHROMIUM
Also known as: Chromel™,
Tophel™, Chromium, Nickel
NICKEL - ALUMINIUM
Also known as: Nickel-Copper,
Constantan, Advance™,
Cupron™
68 81 0 to +800ºC -40 to +900ºC Temperature Range
Tolerance Value
Temperature Range
Tolerance Value
–40°C to +375°C
±1.5°C
375°C to 800°C
±0.004⋅ |t|
–40°C to +333°C
±2.5°C
333°C to 900°C
±0.0075 ⋅ |t|
–167°C to +40°C
±2.5°C
–200°C to –167°C
±0.015 ⋅ |t|
1. The tolerance is expressed either as a deviation in degrees Celsius or as a function of the actual temperature.
2. Thermocouple materials are normally supplied to meet the tolerances specified in the table for temperatures above –40 deg C. These materials however, may not fall within the tolerances for low temperatures given under Class 3 for Types T, E and K thermocouples. If thermocouples are required to meet limits of Class 3, as well as those of Class 1 and/or Class 2, the purchaser should state this, as selection of materials is usually required.
3. The maximum temperature rating is dependant upon construction, size and atmospheric conditions. A more detailed guide for the maximum temperature ratings of mineral insulated thermocouples can be found here.

E Type Thermocouple Cable Colour Codes

International Colour Code to IEC 60584-3 ANSI MC96.1 Redundant national colour coding for thermocouple cables
BS 1843DIN 43714 NFC 42324
IEC60584-3 Type E Thermocouple ANSI MC96.1 Type E Thermocouple BS1843 Type E ThermocoupleDIN 43714 Type E Thermocouple NFC 42324 Type E Thermocouple
Free Guide to Thermocouple and Resistance Thermometry