Introduction to Cryogenic Temeperature Sensors

Cryogenic, or very low temperature sensors, are in a class of their own. Mainly used in low temperature physics research and in space applications, these sensors employ the same principals as standard temperature sensors but may use different materials.

The electrical properties of many materials changes rapidly, and even abruptly, as their temperature approaches absolute zero. In low temperature physics, the experimental set-ups can force special operating requirements on the sensors. For example, there may be strong magnetic fields or ionizing radiation associated with an experiment. Also, there may be significant temperature gradients, so the sensor must be small, and its wiring must not conduct heat into the system.

Types of cryogenic temperature sensors

A detailed coverage of cryogenic temperature sensors is beyond the scope of this document, however, the following table provides an outline of some available sensors:

The number of suppliers of cryogenic temperature sensors is limited. Try Lakeshore Cryogenic - their web site provides a reasonably complete coverage in this specialist area.