The demand for S-type thermocouples has soared: new opportunities have emerged in the global industrial temperature measurement field

[Industry Trends] With the rapid development of global industrial automation, energy and high-end manufacturing, the demand for high-precision temperature measurement equipment continues to rise. As the "gold standard" in the field of high-temperature measurement, the S-type thermocouple (platinum-rhodium 10-platinum thermocouple) is becoming the preferred sensor in industries such as petrochemicals, aerospace, and semiconductors due to its outstanding stability and accuracy. The international market purchase volume has increased by 18% year-on-year.

The core advantages of S-type thermocouples

Ultra-high temperature performance: It can stably measure in an environment of 0 to 1600℃ for a long time and withstand up to 1750℃ for a short period, far exceeding that of K-type and J-type thermocouples.

High-precision standard: Complies with IEC 60584-1 and ASTM E230 international standards, with an error range of ±0.25%, suitable for laboratory-level applications.

Strong oxidation resistance: The platinum-rhodium alloy material performs exceptionally well in oxidizing environments, with its lifespan extended by more than 30% compared to ordinary thermocouples.

Global market drivers

The expansion of the new energy industry: The demand for high-temperature monitoring in the production of photovoltaic silicon materials and the sintering process of lithium batteries has soared, driving the growth of orders for S-type thermocouples.

Strict quality inspection requirements: In the European and American markets, the compliance standards for temperature recording in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries have been upgraded, and high-precision sensors have become a necessity.

The potential for substitution has emerged: Some users who originally used Type B thermocouples (platinum-rhodium 30- platinum-rhodium 6) have turned to Type S to balance cost and performance.

Hotspots in Foreign Trade Procurement

According to customs data, in the first quarter of 2024, the volume of S-type thermocouples exported from China increased by 22% year-on-year, mainly flowing to Germany, the United States, Japan and the Middle East. Key concerns of purchasers:

✅ Customized service: Flexible fitting of sheath material (corundum, quartz), wire diameter and interface form.

✅ Completeness of certification: CE, RoHS, ISO 9001 certified products are more favored by EU buyers.

✅ Fast delivery capability: Spot inventory and expedited production within 15 days are key to competition.