Cheap Thermocouples


 
You can find k-type thermocouples on ebay for anywhere between $3 and $10

I'd also suggest picking up 1 or 2 grill clips from Maverick so that you can easily secure the probe to your grill. Just drill out the holes a bit to match the size of the probe you bought.

This is what the probe I use looks like.

uxS434gl.jpg
 
I sell my 800 degree celcius thermocouples (type k connector, ceramic fibre insulated, 6.5ft cord) for $10 US. And maverick grill clips for $1.50 each. There's a wide range of pricing out there for essentially identical products.
 
If you're buying cheapies, make sure to inquire about whether or not the cord has metal braiding around it or not. I ordered a couple from ebay that showed metal braiding in the pictures, but the ones they shipped to me were fabric cords (less heat resistant/less durable). If you check out the pictures for that one on ebay with the alligator clip, some of them have metal braiding in some of the pictures, and some of them do not in one of the other pictures.
 
I don't have any experience with these cheap Ebay thermocouples, so far I've only used the Auberins alligator clips, but for my next batch I might buy a couple just to see how good or bad they are.
 
So I've decided to go a different route. I did a little research, and I think I might try to make my own custom probes. I can buy k-type thermocouple wire (alumel/chromel) for about 31 a metre. and customize attachment points, jacks, etc.

the process seems straight forward, but will have to come up with a method of "spot" welding the tips together. I'll do some experimenting and get back to Y'all.

Cheers,
W
 
Keep us posted! And don't electrocute yourself with your welding! :D

So I've decided to go a different route. I did a little research, and I think I might try to make my own custom probes. I can buy k-type thermocouple wire (alumel/chromel) for about 31 a metre. and customize attachment points, jacks, etc.

the process seems straight forward, but will have to come up with a method of "spot" welding the tips together. I'll do some experimenting and get back to Y'all.

Cheers,
W
 
So I just ordered 30m of k-type thermocouple wire (not extension wire) and my idea is to create 6ft (2M) lengths with alligator clip end. I'll keep y'all informed on how it goes. Just waiting on the slow boat for china. Total cost to make per probe should be around $3.
 
So I finally received some stuff from China to attempt my 1st home built thermocouple, and I must say it turned out quite well, and CHEAP. Here is what I bought.

K-Type Thermocouple Wire (not extension wire)
http://http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/391202639262?_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

Stainless Steel Alligator Clips
http://http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/131595395417?_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

Thermocouple Plug
http://http://www.auberins.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=7_43&products_id=417

I really liked the Auber design, so I was going for that. I don't yet have a method for "fusing/welding" the wires together, so at this point they're just tightly twisted to maintain contact with each other. Maybe I'll get daring, make sure my health insurance is paid up to date, and try to arc it with a car battery (don't try this at home)

Total cost for a 6 ft. (2m) probe:

TC male connector = $2.50 AUD (Australian Dollar)
2m cable = $1.97 AUD
Alligator Clip = $0.17 AUD

Total = $4.64 Australian, which translates to just $3.34 US.

Once I figure a way to get a more reliable welded connection on the hot end, I'll give y'all an update.

L3rQiid.jpg


Cheers,
W
 

 

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