Printed Thermal Sensors for Harsh Environment by Plasma Spray

Abstract

Temperature sensors are critical components in many industrial and research applications, particularly in harsh environments where high temperatures, corrosion and mechanical stress are prevalent. In this paper, we investigate the use of plasma spray technique as a versatile and simple method to print thermocouples and Resistance Temperature Detectors (RTDs) on metallic and ceramic substrates. The thermocouples based on NiCr-NiAl coatings were directly printed using thick metallic masks, while the RTD’s were structured using laser ablation. The manufacturing methods and the preliminary characterization of these temperature sensors are presented and discussed.