New Paradigms in Traceable Process Control Thermometry

Measurement and control of process temperature is key to maximizing product quality, optimizing efficiency, reducing waste and minimizing CO2 and other harmful emissions. Many processes are operated sub-optimally due to the effect of sensor calibration drift, whereby over time in the process the thermometer output is changed by environmental factors including, but not limited to, high temperature, vibration, ionizing radiation and contamination which result in a progressive loss of knowledge of the true process temperature. Here we describe a number of new developments aimed at overcoming sensor calibration drift by providing assured temperature measurement in-process. New techniques include self-validating thermometers, embedded temperature reference standards, and practical primary thermometry where the temperature is measured directly without recourse to sensor calibration.