What Is A Thermostatic Temperature Controller?

'On Off control' describes the output behaviour of the thermostat which can be 100% energised ON or 0% deenergised OFF. There is no option for proportional control. For many applications this simple to install and understand form of temperature control is preferential to more complex and expensive methods.

Thermostatic temperature controllers are a type of temperature controller that use a temperature sensor and a control mechanism to regulate the temperature of a system or process. They work by sensing the temperature of the system or process and then adjusting the heating or cooling mechanism in response to that temperature. The controller output is typically a relay contact which can switch loads such as small compressors and heating elements directly with a minimum of interface wiring. 

The basic components of a thermostatic temperature controller include a temperature sensor, a control mechanism, and a set point. The temperature sensor measures the temperature of the system or process and sends this information to the control mechanism. The control mechanism compares the actual temperature of the system or process to the desired set point temperature and then adjusts the heating or cooling mechanism as needed to maintain the desired temperature.

Electronic Versus Mechanical Thermostats

There are several types of thermostatic temperature controllers, including mechanical, electronic, and digital controllers. Mechanical controllers use a bimetallic strip or a liquid-filled bulb to sense temperature and operate a mechanical switch that controls the heating or cooling mechanism. Electronic controllers use a thermistor or other temperature-sensitive device to sense temperature and then use an electronic circuit to control the heating or cooling mechanism.

Digital controllers are similar to electronic controllers, but they use a microprocessor to provide more precise temperature control and greater flexibility in programming and control options.

Why Choose An On Off Temperature Controller?

Digital controllers with a microprocessor offer the greatest versatility by adding a number of programmable parameters. With a controller such as the Novus N322 it is possible to have independent setpoints, reverse the direction of control, add time delays and an adjustable hysteresis. 

Digital controllers increasingly include communications options for integration into industrial networks. Many of our controllers include optional RS485 wiring.

For maximum flexibility in a basic heating or cooling application a digital thermostat is a great choice.

On Off Temperature Control Applications

Thermostatic temperature controllers can be used to control a wide range of heating and cooling systems, including HVAC systems, industrial processes, catering and general electrical equipment.

In HVAC systems, for example, thermostatic temperature controllers are used to regulate the temperature of the air that is circulated through the building.

In industrial processes, thermostatic temperature controllers are used to maintain specific temperature ranges to ensure consistent product quality and efficient operation.

They can often be found in catering equipment where they are used to maintain temperature ranges for cooking and storage of foods. Dedicated digital thermostats are available for cooling drinks cabinets, chillers and other refrigerated equipment.

Summary

Overall, thermostatic temperature controllers are an inexpensive tool for regulating the temperature of systems and processes in a variety of applications. By sensing the temperature and adjusting the heating or cooling mechanism as needed, these controllers can help to improve performance, reduce energy consumption, and extend the lifespan of equipment.

While they may lack the sophistication and precision of a PID controller for many applications a tolerance of a few degrees is perfectly acceptable. By choosing a thermostatic controller there are benefits such as a cost / time saving in implementation. Simplicity is also beneficial to those operating the controllers as there are few parameters and adjustments necessary for daily use.

Our digital thermostats from Novus Automation and Ageon offer an excellent alternative to the following brands:

Omron, Schneider, LAE, Eurotherm, ABB, Tempatron, West Instruments, Jumo, Eliwell, Tecnologic