TE Wire & Cable Thermocouple Solutions Blog

  

What do the thermocouple wire color codes mean?

Posted by Vlad Fedorchak

Feb 11, 2014 11:51:00 AM

 

Most countries developed their own thermocouple wire color codes years ago. Today, there are two governing bodies that are globally recognized for setting the accepted color codes standards:  ASTM International (formerly known as American Society for Testing and Materials or ASTM) and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). ASTM E230-03 is the standard adopted by the United States. The standard recognized in Europe is IEC 584-3.

 

The table provided below defines the thermocouple calibration types in the left column (i.e., Type J, K, E, T, N, S) and the alloy combination for the positive (+) and negative (-) leads. The standard insulation colors for the different thermocouple leads are illustrated in the remaining columns below the country.

 

WireColorCodes

 

 

Important: The color chart represents the standards for thermocouple extension accuracy wire.  For standard limit and special limit accuracy thermocouple wire, ASTM calls out a different jacket color – brown.

 

For additional information on the different thermocouple calibration types and temperature ratings, read this blog.  

 

Thermocouple Wire Color Codes Reference Guide

Topics: Thermocouple Selection, thermocouple color codes