ASTM E 2181/E2181M : 2024

1.1This specification establishes dimensional and material requirements for compacted, mineral-insulated, metal-sheathed (MIMS), 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 recommendations and material requirements for compacted MIMS cable with at least one noble metal thermoelement pair.

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

1.3Provisions are made for selecting the type of noble metal thermocouple or thermoelements, either magnesia (MgO) or alumina (Al₂O₃) insulation, and a noble metal alloy or another heat-resistant sheath material. Provisions are also made for selecting a thermocouple-measuring junction style and for a transition or termination.

1.4The 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.

1.5This 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.