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Compel Groupgroup

Thermistors

12 products available

Compel provides a wide selection of NTC thermistors for precise temperature sensing in industrial equipment and machinery. An NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) thermistor is a resistor whose resistance decreases as temperature increases, making it ideal for accurate temperature measurement and control. Our catalog is built for trade and industry, offering components for integration into control circuits, HVAC systems, and manufacturing processes.

We stock various thermistor types, from discrete components to fully assembled probes. You can find units with resistance values from 1K to 1M Ohm, common B-values like 3950K, and high-accuracy 1% tolerance options. With multiple form factors including waterproof probes, threaded mounts, and thin-film sensors, you can source the exact component required for your specific application and environment.

Understanding Thermistor Types: NTC vs. PTC

Thermistors are categorized mainly by their temperature coefficient. Our catalog focuses on NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) thermistors, where resistance drops as temperature rises. This characteristic makes them excellent for precise temperature measurement across a specific range.

The alternative, PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) thermistors, increase their resistance sharply at a certain temperature. This makes them more suitable for self-regulating heaters or as resettable overcurrent protection fuses. For measurement, control, and compensation circuits in industrial machinery, an NTC thermistor is the standard choice.

Selecting Resistance and B-Value for Your Circuit

Two key specifications determine a thermistor's performance: base resistance and B-value. The base resistance (e.g., 10K Ohm, 100K Ohm) is the nominal resistance at a standard temperature, typically 25°C. This value must be compatible with your measurement instrument or control board's input.

The B-value (or B-constant, e.g., 3950K) defines the slope of the resistance-temperature curve. It is for converting the thermistor's resistance reading into an accurate temperature. You must match the B-value to the value expected by your controller's firmware or software formula. For high-precision work, select a thermistor with a tight tolerance, such as the 1% options available.

  • Common Resistance Values: 10K and 100K Ohm are industry standards.
  • Broad Range Available: Our assortment kits and individual listings span from 1K to 1M Ohm.
  • Standard B-Value: 3950K is a frequent B-value for many controllers and applications.

Choosing the Right Physical Form Factor

How the thermistor is packaged determines where and how it can be installed. The physical form factor must match your application's space constraints and environmental conditions.

For direct mounting on a printed circuit board, choose small, epoxy-coated bead thermistors like the MF52 series. For applications with very limited space, an MF55 thin-film thermistor may be more suitable. When sensing temperature remotely or in harsh conditions, a pre-wired probe is necessary. We offer probes with various cable lengths and protective features.

Consider the mounting requirements. For secure attachment to a surface like a motor housing or pipe, use a probe with an M6 or M10 threaded stud. For measuring liquid temperatures or operating in wet or oily environments, select a designated waterproof and oilproof probe to ensure longevity and reliability.

Buying guide

Choosing Thermistors

What are the main differences between the NTC thermistor types available?
The primary differences are in their physical packaging and mounting style. We offer discrete bead thermistors for PCB mounting, thin-film sensors for tight spaces, and cabled probes. Probes are available in waterproof, oilproof, and threaded-mount (M6/M10) configurations to suit different industrial environments.
What does the B-value specification (e.g., 3950K) mean for a thermistor?
The B-value, or B-constant, defines the thermistor's characteristic resistance-temperature curve. To get an accurate temperature reading, your measurement device must be configured for the specific B-value of the thermistor you are using. Mismatched B-values will lead to significant measurement errors.
Which thermistor should I use for monitoring temperature inside a machine with coolant spray?
For environments with liquids, select an NTC thermistor probe that is explicitly rated as waterproof and oilproof. These probes feature sealed housings and cabling to protect the sensing element from moisture and chemical ingress, ensuring accurate and reliable operation over time.
How do I choose between a 10K Ohm and a 100K Ohm thermistor?
The choice depends entirely on the design of your measurement circuit or controller. The 10K Ohm NTC thermistor is a common standard for many industrial controls. Always consult the documentation for your equipment to find the required base resistance and B-value.
Can I extend the cable on a thermistor probe?
Extending the cable adds resistance to the circuit, which will cause inaccurate temperature readings. If a longer reach is needed, it is best to order a probe with the required factory-installed cable length, such as our 1m, 2m, or 3m options. If you must splice a cable, use the same wire gauge and account for the added resistance in your calibration.
Do I need a threaded probe like an M6 or M10?
A threaded probe provides a secure, thermally conductive mount directly to a surface. Use an M6 or M10 threaded probe when you need to monitor the surface temperature of a metal block, pipe, or machine chassis. The thread ensures consistent contact for reliable heat transfer and stable readings.