ASTM E608/E608M-13(2019)

4.1 This specification describes the physical requirements of mineral-insulated, metal-sheathed base metal thermocouples and establishes suitable test criteria for their evaluation.

4.2 Standardized dimensional requirements and acceptable allowances for manufacturing variations, are given.

4.3 A set of standard tests to be applied to all thermocouples covered by this specification are described, in addition to optional tests from which applicable additional requirements may be selected.

4.4 Warning—Users should be aware that certain characteristics of thermocouples might change with time and use.

1.1 This specification covers the requirements for mineral-insulated, metal-sheathed base metal thermocouples for industrial or high-reliability applications. It applies specifically to thermocouples fabricated from sheathed thermocouple material in accordance with Specification E585/E585M. The specification provides for the selection of thermoelements, insulation, sheath material, measuring junction configuration, thermocouple assembly length, and the type of transition or termination.

1.2 This specification also includes provisions for either quality assurance or verification program requirements, or both, as a purchaser’s option.

1.3 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.