Type K Thermocouple – Assembly guide

In this step-by-step guide we will show you the process of properly assembling a Maturix type K thermocouple probe.

Prefer a printable version? Download the PDF guide here.

Materials and tools needed

In order to assemble a Maturix type K thermocouple you will need the following tools and materials:

Materials:

• 1 x Type K mini connector
• 1 x Type K thermocouple wire
• 1 x heat shrink tubing (shrink: 3:1, width: 3mm, length: 10mm)

Tools:

• Phillips screwdriver (PH0)
• Wire stripper

Assembly Guide

Step 1
Disassemble the type K mini connector using the screwdriver.

Step 2
Prepare the wire to be connected to the type K mini connector.

• Inspect the cable before use. Do not use cables with damaged insulation – cuts or nicks can lead to faulty readings.
• Remove the white protection ring and place it on the cable
• Remove the insulation (approx. 1-1.5 cm) of the outer wire (blue insulation) using the wire stripper
  • Aviod cutting too deep, only remove the outer layer to prevent damaging the inner wires.
• Adjust the inner wires to fit in the type K mini connector
• Remove the insulation (5-10 mm) of the inner wires (red and black insulation) using the wire stripper

Step 3
Connect the cable to the type K mini connector.

• Loosen the screws in the Type K mini connector
• Connect the red wire to the positive pole (+ plus)
• Connect the black wire to the negative pole (- minus)
• Tighten the screws in the Type K mini connector
• Place the white protection ring in the type K mini connector and reassemble the lid

Step 4
Prepare the tip of the type K wire

• Remove the insulation using the wire stripper
• Join together the black and red wire by twisting them firmly around each other
  • Ensure that the exposed wires in the tip of the cable are tightly twisted for a good connection, otherwise the sensor will not work.
• Attach the heat shrink tube and heat it up carefully using a lighter so the exposed wire is entirely covered

Important: The exposed wires at the cable tip need to be electrically insulated to ensure that they do not come in contact with rebar or other conductive elements. When the concrete is poured the tip will migrate and if it touches the rebar without insulation, the data will be lost.

Fastening and Cable Routing

To ensure accurate readings and avoid cable damage, it’s important to route and fasten the thermocouple properly during installation:

• Fasten the cable securely, but gently – use zip ties, tape, or soft wire to attach it to rebar or formwork. Avoid overtightening, as this can pinch or damage the insulation.
• Support the cable along its path to reduce movement or strain during the concrete pour.
• Avoid routing the cable through areas with heavy traffic, sharp edges, or places where it may be crushed or stepped on.
• Anchor the tip firmly in the target location (e.g., the core of the concrete element) to make sure it stays in place and isn’t pulled out or shifted by the concrete flow.
• Make sure the cable is routed with gentle bends, not tight loops or sharp angles, especially near the connector and tip.

Do’s and Don’ts

Assembly of thermocouple connector

1. Remove the correct amount of insulation

2. Ensure that the wires are not exposed or twisted

3. Ensure correct polarity

Assembly of thermocouple tip

1. Ensure that the two wires are sufficiently connected

2. Ensure that the tip is sufficiently protected