ASTM E2181/E2181M-01

1.1 This specification establishes dimensional and material requirements for compacted, mineral-insulated, metal-sheathed, Type S (platinum-10 % rhodium versus platinum), Type R (platinum-13 % rhodium versus platinum), and Type B (platinum-30 % rhodium versus platinum-6 % rhodium) noble metal thermocouples. This specification also establishes dimensional and material requirements for compacted, mineral-insulated, metal-sheathed cable with at least one noble metal thermoelement pair.

1.2 This specification describes both the required processing and testing requirements and also the optional supplementary testing and quality assurance requirements.

1.3 Provisions are made for selecting the type of noble metal thermocouple or thermoelements, either magnesia (MgO) or alumina (Al ₂O₃) insulation, and a noble metal alloy or other alternate heat-resistant sheath material. Provisions are also made for selecting a thermocouple measuring junction configuration and for a transition or termination.

1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units or SI (metric) units may be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system are not the exact equivalents, and each system shall be used independently of the other.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory requirements prior to use.