Head Type RTD Sensor: Everything You Need to Know Before Buying
By Aavad Instrument Pvt. Ltd. | PT100 Head Type RTD Sensor Manufacturer in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. Temperature Measurement | RTD Sensors | Industrial Instrumentation
Introduction to Head Type RTD Sensors
Accurate temperature measurement is essential in modern industrial processes. From power plants and chemical reactors to pharmaceutical manufacturing and food processing facilities, industries rely on dependable temperature sensors to ensure product quality, process safety, and operational efficiency.
Among the most widely used temperature sensors in industrial automation is the Head Type RTD Sensor. Known for its rugged construction, easy maintenance, and high accuracy, a head type RTD sensor is the preferred choice for demanding industrial environments.
If you’re a procurement engineer, maintenance manager, instrumentation engineer, or plant operator looking to purchase a PT100 head assembly, this guide explains everything you need to know before making your decision.
What is a Head Type RTD Sensor?
A Head Type RTD (Resistance Temperature Detector) is an industrial temperature sensor that uses a platinum sensing element (typically PT100 or PT1000) enclosed within a protective assembly consisting of:
- RTD sensing element
- Protection sheath
- Neck tube
- Connection head
- Terminal block or temperature transmitter
The connection head protects electrical connections from dust, moisture, vibration, and harsh environmental conditions.
Because of its durability and reliability, the head type RTD is commonly used in process industries where long-term temperature monitoring is required.
Anatomy of a Head Type RTD
Understanding the construction of a head type RTD helps engineers choose the right model for their application.
1. RTD Sensing Element
The sensing element is typically:
- PT100
- PT1000
The resistance changes proportionally with temperature, enabling accurate measurement.
2. Protection Sheath
The sheath protects the sensing element from:
- Corrosion
- Pressure
- Mechanical damage
- Process chemicals
Common sheath materials include:
- SS304
- SS316
- SS316L
- Inconel
3. Neck Tube
The neck tube provides separation between the hot process and the connection head.
Benefits include:
- Improved heat isolation
- Longer transmitter life
- Easier maintenance
4. Connection Head
The connection head houses:
- Terminal blocks
- RTD connections
- Temperature transmitters
Common head designs include:
Type A Head
Compact and economical.
Type B Head
Most widely used industrial head.
Type D Head
Suitable for larger terminal arrangements.
Type BB Head
Heavy-duty industrial design.
Type F Head
Ideal for transmitter mounting applications.
Aluminium vs Cast Iron Connection Heads
One of the most common purchasing questions is:
Which connection head material should I choose?
Aluminium Connection Heads
Advantages
✔ Lightweight
✔ Corrosion resistant
✔ Economical
✔ Suitable for most industrial applications
Applications
- Pharmaceutical plants
- Food processing
- HVAC systems
- Water treatment
Cast Iron Connection Heads
Advantages
✔ High mechanical strength
✔ Better impact resistance
✔ Suitable for harsh environments
Applications
- Steel plants
- Power stations
- Heavy manufacturing
- Mining operations
Head Type RTD Applications by Industry
Head type RTD sensors are used in virtually every process industry.
Power Plants
Applications include:
- Boiler temperature monitoring
- Turbine bearings
- Cooling water systems
- Heat exchangers
Benefits:
✔ Reliable operation
✔ Long service life
✔ High-temperature resistance
Chemical Industry
Used in:
- Reactors
- Storage tanks
- Process pipelines
Advantages:
✔ Corrosion-resistant construction
✔ Accurate process control
Pharmaceutical Industry
Applications:
- Reactors
- Clean steam systems
- Sterilization equipment
- HVAC monitoring
Benefits:
✔ High accuracy
✔ GMP compliance support
Food & Beverage Industry
Used in:
- Pasteurization systems
- Dairy processing
- Brewing operations
Benefits:
✔ Hygienic monitoring
✔ Consistent product quality
HVAC Industry
Applications:
- Air handling units
- Chillers
- Cooling systems
Benefits:
✔ Energy efficiency
✔ Stable temperature monitoring
Custom Head Type RTD: Aavad Instrument Build-Your-Product Service
Every industrial process has unique requirements.
Aavad Instrument Pvt. Ltd. offers customized RTD solutions based on:
Temperature Range
From cryogenic applications to high-temperature processes.
Sensor Type
Configuration
- Simplex
- Duplex
Wiring
- 2 Wire
- 3 Wire
- 4 Wire
Connection Head
- Type A
- Type B
- Type D
- Type BB
- Type F
Process Connection
- BSP Thread
- NPT Thread
- Flanged
- Custom
Sheath Material
- SS304
- SS316
- SS316L
- Inconel
How to Select the Correct Head Type RTD
Before ordering, consider the following parameters.
Temperature Range
Determine the operating temperature.
Accuracy Class
Choose:
- Class A
- Class B
Higher accuracy applications typically require Class A.
Sensor Configuration
Simplex or Duplex.
Process Connection
Select suitable mounting arrangements.
Environmental Conditions
Consider:
- Humidity
- Corrosion
- Vibration
- Outdoor exposure
Output Requirement
Direct RTD output or transmitter-integrated solution.
Maintenance and Replacement Guide
Proper maintenance increases RTD lifespan and measurement reliability.
Recommended Practices
✔ Periodic calibration
✔ Visual inspection
✔ Terminal tightening
✔ Corrosion checks
✔ Replacement during scheduled shutdowns
Signs That Replacement May Be Required
- Unstable readings
- Increased response time
- Physical damage
- Open circuit indication
Order Process & Lead Time from Ahmedabad
Ordering a custom RTD sensor from AAVAD is simple.
Step 1
Share specifications.
Step 2
Receive technical review.
Step 3
Approve drawing and quotation.
Step 4
Manufacturing begins.
Step 5
Quality inspection and dispatch.
Typical lead times depend on customization requirements.
Why Choose Aavad Instrument Pvt. Ltd.?
AAVAD is a trusted PT100 Head Assembly Manufacturer in India serving industries nationwide.
Key Advantages
✔ Custom manufacturing
✔ High-quality materials
✔ Fast delivery
✔ Technical support
✔ Competitive pricing
✔ PAN India supply
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a head type RTD sensor?
A head type RTD sensor is an industrial temperature sensor with a connection head that protects electrical connections and allows easy installation.
What is a connection head in RTD?
A connection head houses terminal blocks or transmitters and protects electrical wiring from environmental conditions.
What are the different RTD head types?
Common designs include Type A, Type B, Type D, Type BB, and Type F connection heads.
How do I install a head type RTD?
Install the sensor using the appropriate process connection, ensure correct immersion length, and connect wiring according to specifications.
What is the difference between head type and wire type RTD?
Head type RTDs have a protective connection head and are suitable for industrial applications, while wire type RTDs are more compact and used in limited-space applications.
Get a Custom Quote
Looking for a reliable Head Type RTD Sensor Manufacturer in India?
Aavad Instrument Pvt. Ltd. provides customized PT100 RTD assemblies for power plants, chemical industries, pharmaceuticals, food processing facilities, HVAC systems, and industrial automation projects.
📞 +91 90996 22823
Aavad Instrument Pvt. Ltd. – Precision Temperature Measurement You Can Trust.
