Temperature Switches

Temperature Switches

Temperature switches are instruments that monitor process temperature and provide discrete switching outputs for alarms, permissives, and protective interlocks, often combined with an analog output for trending or control integration. Endress+Hauser frames modern temperature switches around cost efficiency, space optimization, reliable operation, and easy commissioning, with selection options that include one or two switch outputs or a combination of switching and standardized analog output. A broad range of process connections supports flexible deployment across industrial and hygienic services.

Portfolio characteristics include versions with integrated transmitter and display, enabling local indication and simplified wiring while maintaining a compact footprint. Process connection breadth is emphasized, including hygienic-style connections such as clamp and other sanitary interfaces alongside industrial fittings, supporting consistent switching concepts across mixed-duty areas. Endress+Hauser also calls out fast sensor response as part of the portfolio description (t90 referenced at 2 seconds) for timely detection and control support.

The benefit of a temperature switch is deterministic decision-making at the edge of the measurement chain. A properly configured switch can execute a protective action quickly and predictably, independent of higher-level system polling intervals, while still providing a standardized analog value where needed for diagnostics or trend visibility. Combined switching and analog capabilities can reduce device count and streamline panel and I/O design in space-constrained installations.

Typical applications include high/low temperature limit protection, thermal alarms on heat transfer equipment, and interlocks for utility systems where a discrete state change is required at a defined setpoint. Hygienic variants are applied where sanitary connections and cleanable geometry are required, while industrial variants serve general process duties. Across these use cases, the switch output is commonly used to trigger annunciation, equipment protection logic, or shutdown sequences based on a defined temperature threshold.

Endress+Hauser also outlines the underlying measurement principles commonly used: RTD-based sensing (often Pt100) is valued for accuracy and long-term stability over a wide temperature span, while thermocouples leverage thermoelectric voltage generation (Seebeck effect) and standardized reference tables for temperature determination. Selecting the sensing principle, connection standard, and output configuration (switching and/or analog) defines the switch’s suitability for the thermal range, dynamics, and integration model of the application.

At Eastern Controls, We are proud to be the exclusive authorized sales and service representative for Endress+Hauser.