Fe-CuNi Type J Thermocouple Wire Durable And Accurate For Industrial Temperature Measurement
Fe-CuNi (Type J) thermocouple is a widely used temperature sensor in industrial and laboratory applications. It consists of two different metals, iron (Fe) and copper-nickel (CuNi), also known as Constantan, which create a thermoelectric effect for temperature measurement.
The Fe-CuNi (Type J) thermocouple is a versatile, cost-effective option for moderate temperature ranges in controlled environments. While its durability and performance are excellent for general-purpose use, careful consideration of environmental conditions is essential to prevent iron oxidation and maintain long-term accuracy. For higher temperatures or harsh conditions, Type K or other alternatives may be more suitable.
color codes of thermocouple ( J type )

The operating temperature range of type J thermocouple is -210~1200℃ , but it is usually used in the temperature range 0~750℃ due to embrittlement of Iron.
Type J thermocouple has good resistance to oxidation and high EMF output against Platinum 67, with good temperature accuracy, sensitivity and stability. It is recommended for vacuum, oxidizing, reducing or inert atmospheres, but it can not be used in sulphurous atmosphere above 500℃ .
Name | JP | JN |
Melting Range(℃) | 1402 | 1220 |
Density(g/cm³) | 7.8 | 8.8 |
Resistivity(μΩm20℃) | 12 | 49 |
Resistance-temperture coefficient ×10-4/K(0℃-1200℃) | 95 | 0.5 |
Tensile strength Rm N/mm² MPa | ≥240 | ≥390 |
Elongation % | ≥20 | ≥25 |
Thermocouple temperature range and tolerance
Name | Usag Classification | Grade | Max. operating temperature(℃) | emperitre nres) | Tnlerene | Standard |
Lang term | Short term |
Fe-CuNi (Type J) thermocouple bright wire | J | l | 600 | 750 | -40~750 | ±1.5℃ or ±0.4%t | GB/T4994 ISO 14125 |
Ⅱ | -40~750 | ±2.5℃ or ±0.75%t |
Key Features of Fe-CuNi (Type J) Thermocouple:
1. Composition:
- Positive Leg (Fe): Made of pure iron, which is cost-effective but prone to oxidation at higher temperatures.
- Negative Leg (CuNi): Made of Constantan (copper-nickel alloy), which offers excellent stability and resistance to environmental effects.
2. Temperature Range:
- Operational range: -40°C to 750°C (approximately -40°F to 1382°F).
- Best suited for low to mid-range temperatures. Beyond 750°C, iron oxidizes quickly, limiting its effectiveness and lifespan.
3. Sensitivity (Seebeck Coefficient):
- Voltage output: ~55 µV/°C (microvolts per degree Celsius).
- This level of sensitivity allows for precise temperature measurement across its operational range.
4. Accuracy:
- Accuracy is typically ±2.2°C or ±0.75% of the measured temperature, making it suitable for many industrial and laboratory applications.
5. Stability:
- Offers good long-term stability in non-corrosive environments.
- Iron's susceptibility to oxidation limits its use in environments with high oxygen or moisture levels at elevated temperatures.
6. Durability:
- The Constantan leg is corrosion-resistant, while the iron leg requires protective sheaths or coatings to enhance durability in harsh conditions.
- Type J is durable in moderate-temperature environments but less so in high-temperature or highly corrosive atmospheres.
7. Voltage Output:
- Provides a higher output compared to Type K at similar temperatures, improving resolution and accuracy in low-temperature applications.
Applications:
- Industrial Processes:Monitoring temperatures in furnaces, heat treatments, and kilns.
- Food and Beverage:Temperature measurement during cooking, pasteurization, and freezing processes.
- HVAC Systems:Used in heating and cooling systems for precise temperature control.
- Laboratories:Commonly used in experiments and calibration tasks due to its sensitivity and cost-effectiveness.
- Plastic and Polymer Industries:Monitoring processing temperatures in molding and extrusion systems.
Advantages:
- Cost-Effective: One of the more affordable thermocouple types.
- High Sensitivity: Provides good voltage output for precise readings.
- Wide Compatibility: Works with standard industrial temperature controllers and instrumentation.
- Reliable Performance: Stable and consistent measurements in moderate conditions.


