Oxidation-resisting technology of W-Re thermocouples and their industrial applications

We use DSC/TG, SEM and EPMA approaches to investigate the high temperature oxidation behaviors of the Type C W-Re thermocouple wires and W-Re powders which the wires were made from. To solve the oxidization of W-Re thermocouples the chemical method, other than the commonly used physical method, i.e. vacuum-pumping method, was developed. Several solid-packed techniques such as stuffing with inert material, chemical deoxidizing, gas-absorbing and sealing were employed to prevent the W-Re thermocouples from oxidizing. Based on comprehensive consideration of various parameters in process industries, a series of industrial W-Re thermocouples has been successfully used in oxidizing and reducing atmospheres, high temperature alkali and other harsh environments. The service life is 6 to 12 months in strong oxidizing atmosphere of Cr2O3-Al2O3 brick kiln and 2 to 3 months in high temperature alkali and in reducing atmosphere of CO.