DKD-R 5-1-A-DKD-Guidelines-for-calibration-of-Digital-Thermometers

DEUTSCHER KALIBRIERDIENST
Guideline Calibration of
DKD-R 5-1 Resistance Thermometers
Edition 10/2003 ♦ English translation 02/2009 Page 1 of 24

DKD-R 5-1 ♦ Calibration of Resistance Thermometers
Published by the Accreditation Body of the Deutscher Kalibrierdienst (DKD) in cooperation

with its Technical Committee “Temperature and Humidity”.
Copyright © 2003 by DKD

English translation 02/2009
The document and all its parts are protected by copyright. Any unauthorized use outside the
narrow limits set by the Copyright Act is inadmissible and liable to prosecution. This applies
in particular to copies, translations, microfilming and storage and processing in electronic systems.
Deutscher Kalibrierdienst (DKD)

The DKD consists of the Accreditation Body and independent calibration laboratories of in-
dustrial enterprises, research institutes, technical authorities, inspection and testing institutes.
The laboratories are accredited and supervised by the Accreditation Body. They calibrate
measuring instruments and material measures within the scope of accreditation. The DKD
calibration certificates issued by them prove traceability to national standards as required in
the ISO 9000 family and ISO/IEC 17025.
Calibrations carried out by DKD laboratories ensure that the user can rely on measurement
results, increase the customers' confidence and competitiveness on the national and interna-
tional markets and serve as a metrological basis for the inspection of measuring and test
equipment within the framework of quality assurance measures.
Publications: see Internet
Address:
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Internet: www.dkd.eu

Contents
Contents...................................................................................................................................... 3
Preface ....................................................................................................................................... 4
1 Scope .............................................................................................................................. 4
2 Introduction .................................................................................................................... 5
3 Resistance thermometers ................................................................................................ 5
3.1 Metal resistance thermometers ....................................................................................... 5
3.1.1 Standard platinum resistance thermometers (SPRT)...................................................... 5
3.1.2 Industrial platinum resistance thermometers (IPRT)...................................................... 6
3.2 Semiconductor resistance thermometers ........................................................................ 6
4 Fundamentals of the calibration of resistance thermometers ......................................... 6
5 Transport and initial inspection ...................................................................................... 7
6 Aging test........................................................................................................................ 7
7 Thermostat ...................................................................................................................... 8
8 Influencing factors.......................................................................................................... 8
8.1 Thermal load................................................................................................................... 8
8.2 Thermal coupling............................................................................................................ 9
8.3 Electrical measurement procedures ................................................................................ 9
8.4 Connection systems ........................................................................................................ 9
8.4.1 Two-wire connection system.......................................................................................... 9
8.4.2 Three-wire connection system...................................................................................... 10
8.4.3 Four-wire connection system........................................................................................ 10
8.4.4 Parasitic thermovoltage ................................................................................................ 11
8.4.5 Self-heating................................................................................................................... 11
8.4.6 Insulation resistance ..................................................................................................... 11
8.4.7 Asymmetry deviation ................................................................................................... 11
8.4.8 Hysteresis...................................................................................................................... 12
9 Recalibration................................................................................................................. 12
10 Results .......................................................................................................................... 13
Annex A: Measurement uncertainty in the calibration of thermometers by the
comparison method....................................................................................................... 14
Annex B: Uncertainty in measurements using a resistance thermometer ................................ 24

Preface
DKD Guidelines are application documents to the requirements of DIN EN ISO/IEC
17025:2005. DKD Guidelines describe technical and organizational processes serving the
calibration laboratories as examples when laying down internal procedures and regulations.
DKD Guidelines can become integral parts of the quality management documentation of cali-
bration laboratories. By application of the Guidelines equal treatment of the devices to be cali-
brated at the various calibration laboratories is supported and the continuity and verifiability
of the work of the calibration laboratories is enhanced.
The DKD Guidelines should not impede the further development of calibration procedures
and sequences. Deviations from the Guidelines and new procedures are admissible in agree-
ment with the Accreditation Body should this be advisable for technical reasons.
The Guideline was prepared by the Technical Committee "Temperature and Humidity" in
cooperation with the PTB and adopted by the Advisory Board of the DKD. With its publica-
tion it will become binding for all DKD calibration laboratories unless these have compiled
separate procedural instructions which have been approved by the Accreditation Body.
This DKD Calibration Guideline replaces the previous DKD Calibration Guidelines DKD-R
5-1 (1992) and DKD-R 5-2 (1992).
This document is a translation of the German Guideline DKD-R 5-1, Ausgabe 10/2003. In
case of any disputes the respective German version will be binding.
1 Scope
This Guideline was prepared to fulfil the need for a guide in the form of a general document
dealing with the calibration of resistance thermometers. It applies above all to platinum resis-
tance thermometers complying with the requirements of the standard DIN EN 60751 and cov-
ering the temperature range from ─200 °C to 850 °C.
It is also valid for all categories of resistance thermometers among which the following are of
particular importance:
• resistance thermometers from spectrally pure platinum meeting the requirements of the
ITS-90 (temperature range ─259 °C to 962 °C)
• nickel resistance thermometers
• copper resistance thermometers
• semiconductor resistance thermometers (thermistors, NTCs, PTCs)
Furthermore, the Guideline is applicable to:
• direct-indicating electrical thermometers with resistance sensor

• resistance thermometers with measuring transducer, the output signal of the latter be-
ing either analog or digital standardized signals
• data loggers with an electrical resistance thermometer as sensor

2 Introduction
Almost all thermometers used in practice belong either to the group of radiation thermometers
or to that of contact thermometers. The operation of the contact thermometer is based on a
sensor which by thermal contact is brought to the temperature of the object to be measured
and whose temperature is then determined by measurement of another quantity (expansion,
electrical resistance, etc.) showing a dependence on temperature.
In practical temperature measurement, the greatest measurement deviation is frequently due to
the fact that the sensor temperature and the temperature of the object to be measured are not
identical. A contact thermometer always measures "only" its own temperature. In this sense,
calibration of a contact thermometer means the metrological determination of the relation be-
tween the temperature of the sensor and the output quantity of the thermometer. It is the task
of the user to ensure that the temperature of the sensor corresponds to the temperature to be
measured. Measurement uncertainties due to poor thermal coupling at the user's are not in-
cluded in the measurement uncertainty of thermometer calibration.
3 Resistance thermometers
The operation of resistance thermometers relies on the fact that the electrical resistance of
metal conductors and semiconductors is temperature-dependent. The temperature measure-
ment is thus traced back to the measurement of an electrical resistance. In practice (disregard-
ing the low-temperature range with t < ─200 °C), the following materials are mainly used as
resistance sensors:
3.1 Metal resistance thermometers

Physically, metals are characterized by the existence of freely movable electrons as carriers of
the electrical current. The movement of the electrons is hampered by collisions with and with-
out scattering from the so-called phonons, the quanta of heat vibration. As the number of pho-
nons rises with increasing temperature, the specific resistance of metals increases with tem-
perature.
Today, platinum is almost the only metal used as material for resistance thermometers. The
following types are distinguished:
3.1.1 Standard platinum resistance thermometers (SPRT)

The acronym SPRT for the English designation "standard platinum resistance thermometer" is
also used in German language. The thermometers consist of spectrally pure platinum wire
which is wound free from mechanical stresses. Electrically, these thermometers excel by a
particularly large temperature coefficient, expressed by the requirement of the ITS-90 for
R(29,7646 °C) / R(0,01 °C) > 1,118 07. This requirement is more or less equivalent to the
requirement R(100 °C) / R(0 °C) > 1,392. In the (antiquated) laboratory slang, such ther-
mometers are therefore sometimes still referred to as 392-thermometers. SPRTs basically al-
low the most accurate temperature measurements as its inherent characteristic in the tempera-
ture range from 13,8 K to 962 °C defines the International Temperature Scale ITS-90. The
characteristic is well reproducible because only pure metal without any alloying constituents
is used. In practice, however, they are employed only rarely since only certain designs can be
realized and these are not very stable when mechanically stressed.

3.1.2 Industrial platinum resistance thermometers (IPRT)

The acronym IPRT for the English designation "industrial platinum resistance thermometer"
is also used in the German-speaking area. As sensor material the thermometers use platinum
which to a minor degree contains other alloying constituents in a composition ensuring that
the characteristic given in the standard DIN EN 60751 is complied with. The temperature co-
efficient of IPRTs is smaller than that of SPRTs; R(100 °C) / R(0 °C) ≅ 1,385 is valid, so in
laboratory slang 385-thermometers are sometimes spoken of. IPRTs with sensor types of dif-
ferent designs are most widely used. Wire-wound sensors have proved to be particularly sta-
ble but thin-film sensors are nevertheless most widely used worldwide. Best known are ther-
mometers with a resistance of 100 Ω at 0 °C, briefly also called Pt-100 thermometers. The
range of use of IPRTs extends from −200 °C to 600 °C.
For certain applications Ni or Cu resistors are used but they can be employed only in a limited
temperature range.
3.2 Semiconductor resistance thermometers

Semiconductors are physically characterized by the limited availability of free electrons (and
holes) as charge carriers, which arise as thermal excitation causes individual electrons to be
transferred from the completely filled valence band to the empty conduction band. As the
number of electron-hole pairs increases with increasing temperature, the electrical resistance
decreases accordingly. This is why sensors made of semiconductors are called sensors with
negative temperature coefficient (NTC). Profiting from certain parameters it is also possible
to manufacture sensors with a positive temperature coefficient (PTC). In practice, NTC sen-
sors are fabricated from a complex mixture of metal oxides; the designation "thermistors" is
also used. With 3% K-1 to 5% K-1, the temperature coefficient is substantially higher than for
metals and thus enables a relatively simple design for direct-indicating thermometers even
though the characteristic shows very strong non-linearity.
4 Fundamentals of the calibration of resistance thermometers

Prior to calibration, the thermometer is brought to a known temperature in a suitable environ-
ment, and the output parameter (e.g. the electrical resistance) is determined. According to the
kind of thermostating, a distinction is made between fixed point methods and comparison
methods. In the fixed point method, the temperature of the respective fixed point is realized,
whereas in the case of the comparison method the calibration item and a standard thermome-
ter are brought as exactly as possible to the same temperature using a thermostat and the indi-
cations are compared with each other. Fixed point cell and/or standard thermometer must have
been traceably calibrated.
For the measurement with the calibration item and/or the standard thermometer, suitable elec-
trical measuring devices must be used (ohmmeter, resistance measuring bridge, standard resis-
tors) which must also have been traceably calibrated. In many cases, the requirements for the
ambient conditions - especially the ambient temperature - are given in the specifications of the
electrical devices. Here the standard resistor which for measurements with small measurement
uncertainties is frequently kept at constant temperature in a separate thermostat is most criti-
cal. A calibrated thermometer is also needed for the measurement of the ambient temperature.

5 Transport and initial inspection

Thermometers are available in many different designs. Shocks and vibrations can have an
effect (according to the design, of different magnitude) on the structure of the sensor and thus
on the electrical properties and are therefore to be avoided. Neither can a metal conduit safely
prevent shocks from affecting the sensor. Changes are, however, rather easy to detect by
measurement at the ice point or at the triple point of water. A most critical operation is the
transport of the thermometer. Good packing, e.g. in suitable foam-padded packets is indispen-
sable. In spite of suitable marking, it unfortunately cannot always be taken for granted that
commercial forwarders treat the packages with the necessary care. Very complex calibration
items - such as reference standards with small measurement uncertainties - should therefore be
transported under the permanent control of an employee.
The initial inspection depends not only on the proposed use of the thermometers but also on
their design. First, the calibration item is checked for completeness and integrity. If transport
damages or other mechanical or electrical defects are ascertained, the customer is to be ad-
vised. The customer is also to be informed if the scope of calibration has not been stated
clearly and completely.
For thermometers with associated measuring transducers or thermometers with electrical
evaluation units, the operating instructions and technical data sheets must be submitted.
The calibration item must be clearly marked to ensure clear-cut identification. This also cov-
ers details such as serial number, type designation and manufacturer. As a rule, clear-cut iden-
tification can also be ensured by means of the calibration mark to be applied.
Before the calibration is started, the insulation resistance is to be determined at room tempera-
ture pursuant to the requirements of DIN EN 60751 (test voltage, Riso). It is to be ensured that
neither the sensor nor the connected electronics are destroyed by the test voltage.
6 Aging test
Mechanical stresses which have, for example, arisen during transport can in part be eliminated
by annealing (aging) at higher temperatures. To check the thermometers for adequate stability,
an aging test is usually carried out at a fixed temperature value (nominal value temperature,
ice point, triple point of water).
If a resistance thermometer is used, the resistance at the ice point is normally measured first.
Then the temperature sensor is heated over an appropriate period of time (approx. 8 h to 12 h)
to 10 K beyond the maximum calibration temperature taking into account that the maximum
operating temperature as stated by the manufacturer must not be exceeded. Afterwards, the
resistance of the thermometer is again measured at reference temperature (ice point). If the
difference between the two measurements at the ice point exceeds 30 % of the measurement
uncertainty aimed at, the aging procedure is to be repeated. If after the repeat measurement
the reference value deviates again from the preceding measurement by more than 30 %, the
calibration item is to be rejected as not calibratable.
If the thermometer is recalibrated and has not changed since the last calibration by more than
30 % of the measurement uncertainty aimed at, the aging test can be dispensed with.
The initial value before aging should be separately stated in the calibration certificate.

7 Thermostat
Platinum resistance thermometers and semiconductor sensors are calibrated either by the com-
parison method or in defined fixed points of the applicable temperature scale. Combination of
the two methods is permissible. In the comparison method the resistance thermometers or
semiconductor sensors to be calibrated are compared in temperature-stabilized baths or in
suitable furnaces using reference/working thermometers. Fixed points and standard ther-
mometers must be traceable to national measurement standards.
Within the scope of the determination of the measurement uncertainty, the spatial and tempo-
ral temperature distribution in the working space must be quantitatively determined and taken
into account for the thermostat used for calibration (thermostated bath, furnace).
For the determination of the temporal and spatial distribution, calibrated thermometers of
identical type are positioned on the boundaries of the working space (horizontal, vertical) of
the thermostat. After thermal stabilization, the temperatures measured with the thermometers
are continuously recorded (over a period longer than 20 min). The maximum resulting tem-
perature difference between the thermometers is allowed for as uncertainty component in the
uncertainty budget (rectangular distribution).
Temperature gradients in temperature-stabilized baths or furnaces can be reduced by provid-
ing a metallic compensation block with boreholes to accommodate the standards and calibra-
tion items.
For the calibration in defined fixed points of the applicable temperature scale, the preparation
of the fixed point cells must take place in accordance with the “Supplementary Information
for the International Temperature Scale of 1990”.
The calibration of a thermometer takes place after both the thermostat and the thermometer
itself have reached thermal equilibrium.
The number of calibration temperatures is to be agreed between customer and calibration
laboratory. For the determination of characteristic curves, refer to the DKD Guideline “De-
termination of Characteristic Curves” (DKD-R 5-6).
8 Influencing factors
The measurement uncertainty in the calibration of a thermometer is determined by different
influencing factors. These are not only the measurement uncertainty in the realization of the
temperature but also influences emanating from the calibration item itself. They can in part
amount to many times the measurement uncertainty in the temperature realization (accredited
measurement uncertainty of the calibration laboratory). In the following, these influencing
factors will be described in detail.
8.1 Thermal load

Besides short-time aging (investigation within the scope of the initial inspection, cf. chapter 6),
there are also long-time effects the magnitude of which depends on the thermal load during
use. An evaluation of this measurement uncertainty is the task of the thermometer user and is
determined from the recalibration values. The statement of the measurement uncertainty in the
calibration certificate does not include a contribution for the long-time stability of the ther-
mometer.

8.2 Thermal coupling

Erroneous measurements due to inappropriate immersion depths are the cause for the greatest
and most frequent measurement deviations in the calibration of resistance thermometers! It is
also to be considered that any immersion pockets and protective tubes the customer uses are
usually not used in the calibration. In such cases, it is advisable to inform the customer about
any measurement deviations which might occur between measurements under calibration and
under measurement conditions.
For the calibration, the maximum possible immersion depth and an optimum thermal cou-
pling, respectively, is aimed at for the thermostat and the thermometer to be calibrated. Any
measures which might have to be taken are to be stated in the calibration certificate. This pre-
scription is intended to ensure that the calibration results are reproducible and - in recalibra-
tion - also comparable. This procedure can call for measurement conditions different from
those in subsequent use. Any other measurement deviations must be determined and taken
into account by the user.
The control of the immersion depth for the calibration is carried out by reducing the maximum
possible immersion depth by 10 %. The resulting heat dissipation error must not exceed 10 %
of the measurement uncertainty aimed at, otherwise the measurement uncertainty must be
increased, which usually requires a new, detailed uncertainty budget.
8.3 Electrical measurement procedures
In the measurement of the electrical resistance, effects influencing the measurement result
must be allowed for and, if need be, taken into account when determining the measurement
uncertainty. The resistance measurement is made either with a constant alternating or a (vary-
ing) direct current. Kind and choice of the measuring instruments depend on the measurement
uncertainty aimed at for the calibration.
In the case of thermistors, an asymmetry effect can arise which is dependent on the direction
the current flows through the sensor element.
8.4 Connection systems

Misleading measurements can also arise due to the resistance of the incoming leads which is
to be distinguished from the resistance of the sensor. In electrical resistance measurement, a
distinction is made between three methods of connection: two-wire, three-wire and four-wire
circuits.
8.4.1 Two-wire connection system
In the two-wire circuit the connection between sensor element and measuring instrument is
ensured by a two wire cable. As all other electrical conductors, this too has a resistance which
is connected in series with the sensor element. The two resistances thus add leading to a tem-
perature indication which is systematically higher. This is reflected in the calibration value
but it is omitted from consideration that during use the electrical resistance of the lead also
varies due to external temperature influences. If the thermometer to be calibrated is provided
with a lead, the user must allow for additional measurement deviations which depend on the
temperature of the lead.

The calibration certificate also states the temperature of the lead during calibration.
Example:
Platinum resistance thermometer Pt-100 with 2,5 m lead (copper, cross section:
0,25 mm2)
Resistance of lead at room temperature: 410 mΩ
If the lead has a temperature of 70 °C, the loop resistance of the lead rises to
492 mΩ.
This corresponds to a temperature indication higher by +0,2 K.
In the determination of the measurement uncertainty in the calibration of the thermometer,

this must be taken into account, and as a matter of principle, a higher value is obtained.
8.4.2 Three-wire connection system

For the minimization of the influences of the line resistances and their temperature-dependent
variations, the three-wire connection system is used in industrial metrology. Two measuring
circuits are obtained, one of which is used as reference. Owing to the circuit used, the line
resistance is compensated as regards both its amount and its temperature dependence.
As the measuring instruments employed for the calibration operate, however, in the four-wire
technique, the loop resistance must be measured separately and be compensated by computa-
tion.
8.4.3 Four-wire connection system

The optimum method of connection is the four-wire circuit. As a result of the connection of a
separate current and voltage path to the sensor, the measurement result is adversely affected
neither by the line resistance itself nor by its temperature dependence. It must thereby be en-
sured (e.g. by the manufacturer's specifications) that the four-wire circuit is realized up to the
sensor element. However, if the sensor element inside the thermometer uses the two-wire
technique, an additional line resistance arises.

8.4.4 Parasitic thermovoltage

As a rule, the measuring circuit of a thermometer does not consist of a single material. Several
materials are in contact with one another, therefore a temperature gradient along the measur-
ing circuit can lead to the formation of a thermovoltage superimposed on the voltage drop at
the resistor. According to the direction of current, this voltage adds or subtracts, and a calibra-
tion value results which is systematically higher or lower. By current reversal during calibra-
tion the magnitude of the thermovoltage can be determined from the difference of the two
indicated values (providing the measurement current is known).
In the case of alternating current and varying direct current, this effect averages out and first
remains unaccounted for. To the customer it is, however, helpful if the magnitude of the ther-
movoltage is determined and stated in the calibration certificate together with the measure-
ment conditions of the calibration.
Example:
Resistance thermometer Pt-100
Measurement current: 1 mA
Thermovoltage: 25 µV
U 25 µV
Resulting offset from thermovoltage: =R= = 25 mΩ
I 1 mA
This corresponds to a temperature value of 0,063 K.
8.4.5 Self-heating
For the determination of the electrical resistance, an electrical measurement must be carried
out for which a measurement current must be fed through the sensor. The measurement cur-
rent leads to the sensor being heated (self-heating) and thus to the measurement result being
falsified. This effect is dependent not only on the magnitude of the measurement current but
also on the measurement conditions themselves. In the calibration, the self-heating mechanism
is to be investigated or a measurement current is to be chosen at which this effect is negligi-
ble.
Should this not be possible, the calibration value is to be extrapolated to I = 0 A by calibration
at different measurement currents.
8.4.6 Insulation resistance

The insulation resistance of the thermometer is already measured at room temperature during
the initial inspection. During the calibration, it is yet to be measured at the highest calibration
temperature.
8.4.7 Asymmetry deviation

In the case of semiconductor sensors in particular, it is possible that the output signal depends
on the direction of current. In this case, this is to be determined during the calibration and to
be stated in the calibration certificate.

8.4.8 Hysteresis
For accurate measurements it is further to be borne in mind that many thermometers (includ-
ing platinum resistance thermometers) show a hysteresis effect, i.e. the relation between tem-
perature and resistance is dependent on the previous history of the thermometer. This effect
arises, for example, if platinum is closely bonded with a ceramic carrier and the difference in
thermal expansion leads to mechanical stresses. For IPRTs this can result in a difference in the
indication of up to 0,5 K according to whether the thermometer was used before at higher or
at lower temperatures.
9 Recalibration
For measurements with the thermometer, the statements in a calibration certificate are not
valid for an unlimited time. The various influences acting on a thermometer during its use
lead to changes; the thermometer drifts. The influencing factors are:
• thermal load during the measurement
o temperature value
o period of use
o fast temperature changes
• mechanical stress
o vibration
o shock
• chemical influences
o diffusion of foreign matter into the resistor material
o structural changes in the resistor material
To get an idea of the changes, it is indispensable to recalibrate the thermometer at certain inter-
vals of time. The calibration periods cannot be laid down in the calibration certificate as they
depend very strongly on the required measurement uncertainty and the load during operation. So
the user is compelled to define the calibration periods himself according to the load during use.
The data from the successive calibrations in the same temperature range then allow a history
to be established for the thermometer. The drift values determined from the previous calibra-
tions are used for further evaluation. The user can himself adjust the recalibration periods to
the specific requirements placed on the measurement uncertainty and the history.
Example: A Pt-100 resistance thermometer has been calibrated four times on the whole at the
triple point of water. After the first calibration a drift has taken place during use, then the val-
ues are confirmed by the recalibrations, so that the recalibration period can, for example, be
doubled.

0,07
0,06
0,05
indication at TPW / K
0,04
0,03
0,02
0,01
0
1. calibration 2. calibration 3. calibration 4. calibration
10 Results
As a result of the calibration, a calibration certificate is issued.
The calibration certificate must meet the requirement of the publication DKD-5 “Instructions
for Issuing a DKD Calibration Certificate”. Within the scope of this Guideline, the following
is to be referred to:
(e) reference to the specifications or procedures applied.
It is recommended to describe the calibration procedure in detail.
(h) the measurement results and the associated measurement uncertainties or a statement on
the conformity with an established metrological specification.
It is recommended to state both the measurement results and the characteristic curve cal-
culated from them, together with the assigned measurement uncertainties.
(o) if an instrument to be calibrated was adjusted or calibrated, any calibration results avail-
able for the time before and after the adjustment or repair must be stated.
This is valid also for direct-indicating thermometers in particular.

Annex A: Measurement uncertainty in the calibration of thermometers by

the comparison method
The measurement uncertainty in the calibration of a thermometer depends on the calibration
method used, the uncertainty from the calibration of the standards, the characteristics of the
measuring equipment used and the characteristics of the test equipment. No general instruc-
tions for the measurement uncertainty of certain thermometer types can therefore be given.
The examples of calculation of the measurement uncertainty in calibration dealt with in this
section therefore cannot be directly transferred to any calibration actually carried out; the con-
tributions to the measurement uncertainty in the calibration are rather to be thoroughly deter-
mined in each individual case.
For accredited laboratories the Accreditation Body has established so-called “best measure-
ment capabilities”. Usually, these can, however, be attained by the calibration laboratories
only if the best measuring equipment available is deployed and if the calibration item behaves
more or less ideally. In DKD Calibration Certificates accredited laboratories are not allowed
to state measurement uncertainties which are smaller than the best measurement capabilities;
frequently, the actual measurement uncertainty will, however, be higher.
In the following, examples of the calibration of four different types of thermometers will be
given:
• calibration of a precision resistance thermometer with an AC measuring bridge
• calibration of an IPRT with an ohmmeter
• calibration of a direct-indicating electrical thermometer
• calibration of a thermometer with measuring transducer and analog output
All examples relate to calibration by the comparison method in a stirred liquid bath. In this
method, the temperature of the calibration item is determined with the aid of a thermometer
otherwise calibrated. In all cases, the mathematical model for the determination of the tem-
perature of the calibration item is therefore basically the same and is presented here only once
for reasons of space. In practice, some contributions (e.g. the correction due to heat dissipa-
tion from the calibration item) will, however, depend on the particular calibration item.
In the examples below, only the calibration at one temperature is considered. Thermometers
are normally calibrated at several temperatures, the values obtained serving to calculate a
characteristic whose uncertainty is greater than the measurement uncertainty at the individual
test temperatures.

A.1: Determination of the temperature of the calibration item

In all examples in this chapter the calibration of the calibration item is carried out by the com-
parison method at a nominal temperature of 180 °C. The measurements are performed in a
stirred oil thermostat without compensation block. As standard thermometer an SPRT (25 Ω)
is used which was calibrated at the internal laboratory against two reference standards cali-
brated by the PTB. The resistance of the SPRT is determined with a resistance measuring
bridge with direct temperature indication and a 100 Ω standard resistor which were both cali-
brated by a DKD laboratory.
The temperature at which the calibration item is calibrated is determined by measurement
with the standard thermometer and by additional corrections:
tx = tN + δtKal + δtDrift + cR δRR + δtBr + δtWaN + δtEWN + δtWAP + δtHom + δtStab
with
tx temperature of the calibration item according to ITS-90
tN mean value of the temperature of the SPRT
δtKal correction due to the measurement uncertainty in the calibration of the SPRT
δtDrift correction due to a possible drift of the SPRT since the last calibration
δRR correction due to the measurement uncertainty in the calibration of the standard resistor
δtBr correction due to the measurement uncertainty in the calibration of the resistance
measuring bridge
δtWaN correction due to a possible heat conduction by the SPRT
δtEWN correction for the self-heating of the SPRT
δtWAP correction due to a possible heat conduction by the calibration item
δtHom correction due to inhomogeneities in the thermostat
δtStab correction due to temporal instabilities in the bath
cR sensitivity of the measuring bridge; in the range selected, cR ≅ 10 K/Ω is valid.
The corrections given in this list are in most cases not known and presumably very small. As
best estimate a correction of 0 K is usually assumed which is, however, affected by an uncer-
tainty. In detail, the contributions were determined as follows:
tN mean value of the temperature of the standard thermometer (SPRT): The measuring
bridge calculates the temperature from the entered coefficients of the deviation func-
tion which were determined in the calibration, and calculates the mean value of ten in-
dividual measurements and the standard deviation of this mean value. As result of the
measurement a mean temperature of 180,234 °C is indicated, with a standard deviation
of the mean value of 1,2 mK.
δtKal correction due to the measurement uncertainty in the calibration of the SPRT: Accord-
ing to the calibration certificate, the measurement uncertainty of the SPRT at 180 °C is
15 mK (k = 2), so the standard uncertainty is 7,5 mK.
δtDrift correction due to a possible drift of the thermometer since the last calibration: From
the known history of the thermometer it is concluded that the drift since the last cali-
bration will not be greater than ±6 mK. From this a standard uncertainty of 6 mK / √3
= 3,5 mK follows.

δRR correction due to the measurement uncertainty in the calibration of the standard resis-
tor: The relative measurement uncertainty of the standard resistor is given in the cali-
bration certificate as 3 ⋅ 10-6 (k = 2). For an actual resistance of the SPRT of approx.
43 Ω, this corresponds to an uncertainty of 0,13 mΩ (k = 2) and to a standard uncer-
tainty of 0,07 mΩ. Experience has shown that the drift of the resistor since the last
calibration can be neglected.
δtBr correction due to the measurement uncertainty of the resistance measuring bridge. For
the measurement range used, the calibration certificate states an expanded uncertainty
(k = 2) of 3 mK. The indication of the bridge shows six digits but at the interface to the
data acquisition seven digits are available over which temporal averaging is carried
out. So measurement uncertainties due to the limited resolution can be neglected in
contrast to the other contributions to the measurement uncertainty.
δtWaN correction due to a possible heat conduction by the SPRT: Pulling the SPRT 20 mm
out of the bath led to a temperature change of 2 mK (which due to the temperature
variations of the bath could be estimated only inaccurately). From this a standard un-
certainty of 2 mK / √3 = 1,2 mK follows.
δtEWN correction for self-heating of the SPRT: The calibration certificate states that a meas-
urement current of 1 mA in a water triple point cell has led to a heating of 2.1 mK.
This contribution is neglected in the following as the thermometer is both calibrated
and used now at a measurement current of 1 mA.
δtWAP correction due to a possible heat conduction by the calibration item: Pulling the cali-
bration item 20 mm out of the bath led to a temperature change of 1 mK (which due to
the temperature variations of the bath could be estimated only inaccurately), measured
with the resistance bridge. This contribution is neglected. In part of the examples, it
would not have been possible to detect any effect due to the low resolution of the cali-
bration items.
tHom correction due to inhomogeneities in the thermostat: It is known from previous inves-
tigations that the temperature difference between calibration item and standard ther-
mometers due to inhomogeneities in the bath can amount to ±8 mK at most. From this a
standard uncertainty of 8 mK / √3 = 4,6 mK follows.
δtStab correction due to temporal instabilities in the bath: It is known from previous investi-
gations that the temperature difference between calibration item and standard ther-
mometers due to temporal instabilities in the bath can amount to ±6 mK at most. From
this a standard uncertainty of 6 mK / √3 = 3,5 mK follows.
Compared with these contributions, further influences such as, for example, the short-time
stability of the measuring instruments during measurement can be neglected.
The individual contributions to the uncertainty of the temperature of the calibration item are
summarized in Table A.1.

Quantity Brief description Estimate Standard Distribution Sensitivity Uncertainty

uncertainty coefficient contribution
Dispersion of
tN measurement values 180,234 °C 1,2 mK normal 1 1,2 mK
- SPRT
δtKal Calibration - SPRT 0K 7,5 mK normal 1 7,5 mK
Drift - standard
δtDrift 0K 3,5 mK rectangular 1 3,5 mK
thermometer
δRR Standard resistor 0Ω 0,07 mΩ normal 10 K/Ω 0,7 mK
δtBr Measuring bridge 0K 1,5 mK normal 1 1,5 mK
Heat dissipation -
δtWaN 0K 1,2 mK rectangular 1 1,2 mK
SPRT
Homogeneity -
δtHom 0K 4,6 mK rectangular 1 4,6 mK
thermostat
δtStab Stability - thermostat 0K 3,5 mK rectangular 1 3,5 mK
Temperature -
tx 180,234 °C 10 mK
calibration item
Table A.1: Uncertainty of the temperature of the calibration item
A.2 Calibration of a precision resistance thermometer with an AC measuring bridge

The resistance of the calibration item (Pt-100 precision thermometer) is measured at the tem-
perature tx. For the measurement the resistance measuring bridge and the standard resistor
which had already been used for the measurement with the reference standard are employed;
in this case, the resistance is measured directly using the measuring bridge. The model for this
measurement reads
R(tx) = RMB + δRR + δRBr + δRPar+ ct·δT
with
RMB indication of the measuring bridge
δRR correction due to the measurement uncertainty in the calibration of the standard resistor
δRBr correction due to the measurement uncertainty in the calibration of the resistance meas-
uring bridge
δRPar correction due to parasitic thermovoltages
δT correction due to the uncertainty of the temperature of the calibration item
ct sensitivity of the thermometer, amounts here to 0,4 Ω / K
These contributions were in detail determined as follows:
RMB indication of the measuring bridge: The measuring bridge used calculates the mean
value from 10 individual measurements of the resistance. A resistance of 168,432 Ω
with a standard deviation of the mean value of 2,2 mΩ is read off as result.
δRR correction due to the measurement uncertainty in the calibration of the standard resistor:
The relative uncertainty of the standard resistor is stated in the calibration certificate with
3 ⋅ 10-6 (k = 2); with the ratio from the bridge this means for 170 Ω an uncertainty of
0,5 mΩ (k = 2) and a standard uncertainty of 0,25 mΩ. On account of the experience
made with the resistor, the drift of the resistor since the last calibration can be neglected.

δRBr correction due to the measurement uncertainty in the calibration of the resistance
measuring bridge: The relative uncertainty of the resistance measuring bridge is given
in the calibration certificate with 3⋅10-6 (k = 2), from which a standard uncertainty of
0,15 mΩ (related to the standard resistor) results. The indication of the bridge shows
six digits but at the interface to the data acquisition seven digits are available over
which temporal averaging is carried out. Compared to the other contributions to the
measurement uncertainty, measurement uncertainties due to the limited resolution can
therefore be neglected.
δRPar correction due to parasitic thermovoltages: The influence of parasitic thermovoltages
can be neglected if the measurements are carried out with an AC bridge. If the resis-
tance thermometer is intended to be operated with a DC measuring instrument, the de-
termination of measurement errors due to parasitic thermovoltages requires supple-
mentary measurements (upon agreement with the customer).
δT correction due to the uncertainty of the temperature of the calibration item: In Table
A.1 it is stated that the standard uncertainty assigned to the temperature of the calibra-
tion item is 10,3 mK.
These contributions are summarized in Table A.2.

Reading -
RMB 168,432 Ω 2,2 mΩ normal 1 2,2 mΩ
measuring bridge
δRR Standard resistor 0Ω 0,25 mΩ normal 1 0,25 mΩ
δRBr Measuring bridge 0Ω 0,15 mΩ normal 1 0,15 mΩ
Temperature -
δT 0K 10,3 mK normal 0,4 Ω/K 4,1 mΩ
calibration item
R(tx) 168,432 Ω 4,66 mΩ
R(tx) k=2 9,32 mΩ
Table A.2: Uncertainty of the resistance of the calibration item
The following measurement result is stated normally1:

The resistance of the IPRT at the temperature of 180,234 °C is 168,432 Ω. The measurement
uncertainty is 9,4 mΩ. This corresponds to an uncertainty of the temperature measurement of
24 mK.
The uncertainty stated is the expanded uncertainty obtained by multiplying the standard un-
certainty by the coverage factor k = 2. It has been determined in accordance with DKD-3. The
value of the measurand lies within the assigned range of values with a probability of 95 %.
1
The case is not a normal one when the probability distribution is such that a coverage probability of 95% cannot be
achieved with a coverage factor of k = 2. The above note is then to be modified stating the value of the coverage
factor. More detailed explanations are given in DKD-3 or can be obtained from the DKD Accreditation Body.

A.3 Calibration of a precision resistance thermometer with an ohmmeter

At the temperature tx the resistance of the calibration item (Pt-100 precision thermometer) is
measured. The measurement of the resistance of the calibration item is made with a five-digit
calibrated resistance measuring instrument (ohmmeter) for which a DKD Calibration Certifi-
cate is available. The model for this measurement is obtained as follows:
R(tx) = RW + δROhm + δRDrift + δRAuf + δRPar+ ct·δT + δRHys
with
RW indication of the ohmmeter
δROhm correction due to the measurement uncertainty in the calibration of the ohmmeter
δRDrift correction due to the drift of the ohmmeter since the last calibration
δRAuf correction due to the limited resolution of the ohmmeter
δRPar correction due to parasitic thermovoltages
δT correction due to the uncertainty of the temperature of the calibration item
ct sensitivity of the thermometer, here: 0,4 Ω/K
δRHys correction due to hysteresis effects

RW indication of the ohmmeter: The ohmmeter displays a value of 168,43 Ω. The standard
deviation of the mean value from several measurements is determined to be 0,005 Ω.
δROhm correction due to the measurement uncertainty in the calibration of the ohmmeter: Ac-
cording to the calibration certificate, the measurement uncertainty of the ohmmeter is
0,020 Ω (k = 2) and the standard uncertainty thus is 10 mΩ.
δRDrift correction due to the drift of the ohmmeter since the last calibration: Due to the known
history of the ohmmeter it is ensured that the drift since the last calibration is ±20 mΩ
at most. From this a standard uncertainty of 20 mΩ/√3 = 11,5 mΩ follows.
δRAuf correction due to the limited resolution of the ohmmeter: The limited resolution of the
ohmmeter of 0,01 Ω allows a reading within ±0,005 Ω. From this a standard uncer-
tainty of 5 mΩ / √3 = 2,9 mΩ follows.
δRPar correction due to parasitic thermovoltages. The influence of parasitic thermovoltages
was determined by reversal on the ohmmeter. Due to the limited resolution of the
ohmmeter, an effect could not be detected and can therefore be neglected.
δT correction due to the uncertainty of the temperature of the calibration item: In Table
A.1 it is stated that the standard uncertainty assigned to the temperature of the calibra-
tion item is 10,3 mK.
δRHys correction due to hysteresis effects: Two measurements were carried out. For one
measurement the thermometer had previously been in a salt bath at 250 °C and for the
other measurement at 0 °C. The results differed by 22 mΩ. From this a contribution to
the measurement uncertainty of 22 mΩ / 2√3 = 6,4 mΩ follows.


Reading -
RW 168,43 Ω 5 mΩ normal 1 5 mΩ
ohmmeter
Calibration -
δROhm 0Ω 10 mΩ normal 1 10,0 mΩ
ohmmeter
Drift -
δRDrift 0Ω 11,5 mΩ rectangular 1 11,5 mΩ
ohmmeter
Resolution -
δRAuf 0Ω 2,9 mΩ rectangular 1 2,9 mΩ
ohmmeter
δRHys Hysteresis effects 0Ω 6,4 mΩ rectangular 1 6,4 mΩ
Temperature -
δT 0K 10,3 mK normal 0,4 Ω/K 4,1 mΩ
calibration item
R(tx) 168,43 Ω 18,0 mΩ
R(tx) k=2 33,6 mΩ
Table A.3: Uncertainty of the resistance of the calibration item

The resistance of the IPRT at the temperature of 180,234 °C is 168,43 Ω. The measurement
uncer-tainty is 0,04 Ω. This corresponds to an uncertainty of the temperature measurement of
0,09 °C.
A.4 Calibration of a direct-indicating electrical thermometer

At the temperature tx the indication A(tx) of a direct-indicating electrical thermometer is read off.
It is a Pt-100 thermometer with an associated indicating device with a resolution of 0,01 K.
What is searched is the correction K(tx) which must be added to the indication for the right
temperature to be obtained. The model for this measurement is obtained as
K(tx) = tx + δtAuf - A(tx)
with
K(tx) correction for the thermometer
tx temperature of the thermometer
A(tx) reading of the thermometer
δtAuf correction due to the limited resolution of the thermometer
1

tx temperature of the thermometer: According to Table A.1, the temperature of the ther-
mometer is 180,234 °C with a standard uncertainty of 10,3 mK.
A(tx) reading of the thermometer: The thermometer displays a temperature of 180,25 °C.
During a measurement time of 5 min, this temperature was constantly indicated; the
statistical variation thus can be neglected within the resolution.
δtAuf correction due to the limited resolution of the thermometer: At a resolution of 10 mK,
the reading is possible only within ±5 mK. From this a standard uncertainty of 5 mK / √3
= 2,9 mK follows.
tx Temperature - 180,234 °C 10,3 mK normal 1 10,3 mK
thermometer
A(tx) Reading 180,25 °C 0 mK normal 1 0 mK
δtAuf Resolution 0K 2,9 mK rectangular 1 2,9 mK
K(tx) Correction ─16 mK 10,7 mK
K(tx) k=2 21 mK
Table A.4: Uncertainty of the temperature indication of the calibration item

At the temperature of 180 °C the correction K(tx) = ─16 mK must be added to the indication
to obtain the temperature to be measured. The measurement uncertainty of the correction is
21 mK.
1

A.5 Calibration of a resistance thermometer with connected transmitter

At the temperature tx the output current of the transmitter connected to the thermometer shall
be measured and calibrated. The thermometer sensor is of the type Pt-100. The transmitter
furnishes an analog output signal which, with the adjustment: 4 mA ≙ 0 °C, 20 mA ≙ 320 °C,
rises linearly with the temperature, i.e. a variation of 20 °C leads to a variation of the signal
current of 1 mA.
For the measurement of the output signal, an amperemeter with a resolution of 1µA is used
for which a DKD Calibration Certificate is available.
The model for this measurement reads
i(tx) = iAm + δiAK + δiAD + δiUm+ ci δT + δiEW
with
iAm indication of the amperemeter
δiAK correction due to the measurement uncertainty from the amperemeter
δiAD correction due to the drift of the amperemeter since the last calibration
δiUm correction due to ambient influences on the transmitter
δiEW correction due to retroaction of the input resistance of the electronic evaluation unit
δT correction due to the measurement uncertainty of the temperature of the bath
ci sensitivity of the thermometer with transmitter, here: 50 µA/K

iAm indication of the amperemeter: The amperemeter displays a measured value of 13,103 mA
with a standard uncertainty of the mean value from several measurements of 1,7 µA.
δiAK correction due to the measurement uncertainty of the amperemeter: For a measurement
current of 94 mA, the calibration certificate gives a correction of 2,2 µA with an un-
certainty of 1,8 µA (k = 2). From this a standard uncertainty of 0,9 µA follows.
δiAD correction due to the drift of the amperemeter since the last calibration: It is concluded
from the known history of the amperemeter that the drift since the last calibration will not
be greater than ±2 µA. From this a standard uncertainty of 2 µA / √3 = 1,2 µA follows.
δiUm correction due to ambient influences on the transmitter: According to the customer's
statements, the operating temperature of the transmitter in use is between 40 °C and
60 °C. During calibration the temperature of the transmitter was 52 °C. According to
the manufacturer's specifications, the output current can change by ±6 µA at most un-
der the effect of the influences to be expected. From this a standard uncertainty of
6 µA / √3 = 3,5 µA follows.
δiEW correction due to retroaction of the input resistance of the series-connected electronic
evaluation unit: According to the data sheet, this influence is 8 µA at most. From this a
standard uncertainty of 8 µA / √3 = 4,6 µA follows.
δT correction due to the measurement uncertainty of the bath temperature: According to
Table A.1, the temperature of the thermometer is 180,234 °C with a standard uncer-
tainty of 10,3 mK.


Indication -
iAm 13,103 mA 1,7 µA normal 1 1,7 µA
amperemeter
Calibration -
δiAK 2,2 µA 0,9 µA normal 1 0,9 µA
amperemeter
Drift -
δiAD 0 µA 1,2 µA rectangular 1 1,2 µA
amperemeter
Ambient
δiUm 0 µA 3,5 µA rectangular 1 3,5 µA
temperature
δiEW Input resistance 0 µA 4,6 µA rectangular 1 4,6 µA
Temperature -
δT 0K 10,3 mK normal 50 µA/K 0,5 µA
calibration item
K(tx) Signal current 13,1052 mA 6,2 µA
K(tx) k=2 12,4 µA
Table A.5: Uncertainty of the signal current of the transmitter

At the temperature of 180,234 °C a signal current of 13,1052 mA is output. The measurement
uncertainty is 12 µA, which corresponds to an uncertainty of the temperature of 0,24 K.
The measurement uncertainty is valid for an operating temperature of the transmitter between
40 °C and 60 °C.
1

Annex B: Uncertainty in measurements using a resistance thermometer
The above examples A.1 to A.4 relate to the calibration of a thermometer at one temperature
only. Usually, a thermometer is calibrated at several temperatures (temperature points) for
which, as a rule, different measurement uncertainties result. As the user also employs the
thermometer to carry out temperature measurements between the calibration points, it is, how-
ever, helpful if the calibration certificate also contains statements on the use of the thermome-
ter in the whole temperature range. This is frequently achieved by giving a characteristic
curve (see DKD-R 5-6) whose uncertainty is naturally greater than that of a calibration in one
point.
At the customer's, the thermometer is possibly used under conditions which are different from
those under which the calibration was carried out. So contributions to the measurement uncer-
tainty might dominate which could remain unaccounted for in the calibration. The measure-
ment uncertainty in use can therefore considerably exceed the measurement uncertainty in
calibration. The essential factors influencing the measurement uncertainty when resistance
thermometers are used are summarized in Table B.1.
Maximum contribution to
Influence quantity Evaluation
measurement uncertainty
Up to more than 10 % of the
Temperature difference Different immersion
temperature difference
between object measured depths, flow velocities,
between object measured and
and thermometer coupling, positions, …
environment
Recording of measure-
ments, check using Up to the amount of the tem-
Temporal instabilities
thermometers with a perature variations
different time constant
Investigation of the
dependence of the previous
Hysteresis of the thermometer Up to 0,5 K
history on the measurement
result
Calculation of the line
Resistance of the leads Up to some K
resistance
Parasitic thermovoltages Reversal Up to 0,2 K for Pt-100
Drift of the thermometer, Check at fixed points
Up to 0,5 K
long-time stability (ice point)
Electronic evaluation unit
(for direct-indicating Data sheet Up to 0,5 K
thermometers)
Table B.1: Factors influencing the uncertainty in measurements using resistance thermometers

DKD-R 5-1-A-DKD-Guidelines-for-calibration-of-Digital-Thermometers

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DKD-R 5-1-A-DKD-Guidelines-for-calibration-of-Digital-Thermometers

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DEUTSCHER KALIBRIERDIENST

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Published by the Accreditation Body of the Deutscher Kalibrierdienst (DKD) in cooperation

Copyright © 2003 by DKD

Deutscher Kalibrierdienst (DKD)

Publications: see Internet

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• direct-indicating electrical thermometers with resistance sensor

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3.1 Metal resistance thermometers

3.1.1 Standard platinum resistance thermometers (SPRT)

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3.1.2 Industrial platinum resistance thermometers (IPRT)

3.2 Semiconductor resistance thermometers

4 Fundamentals of the calibration of resistance thermometers

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5 Transport and initial inspection

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8.1 Thermal load

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8.2 Thermal coupling

8.3 Electrical measurement procedures

8.4 Connection systems

8.4.1 Two-wire connection system

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In the determination of the measurement uncertainty in the calibration of the thermometer,

8.4.2 Three-wire connection system

8.4.3 Four-wire connection system

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8.4.4 Parasitic thermovoltage

8.4.6 Insulation resistance

8.4.7 Asymmetry deviation

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Annex A: Measurement uncertainty in the calibration of thermometers by

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A.1: Determination of the temperature of the calibration item

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Quantity Brief description Estimate Standard Distribution Sensitivity Uncertainty

A.2 Calibration of a precision resistance thermometer with an AC measuring bridge

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Quantity Brief description Estimate Standard Distribution Sensitivity Uncertainty

The following measurement result is stated normally1:

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A.3 Calibration of a precision resistance thermometer with an ohmmeter

These contributions were in detail determined as follows:

These contributions are summarized in Table A.3.

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Quantity Brief description Estimate Standard Distribution Sensitivity Uncertainty

The following measurement result is stated normally1:

A.4 Calibration of a direct-indicating electrical thermometer

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These contributions were in detail determined as follows:

Table A.4: Uncertainty of the temperature indication of the calibration item

The following measurement result is stated normally1:

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A.5 Calibration of a resistance thermometer with connected transmitter

These contributions were in detail determined as follows:

These contributions are summarized in Table A.5.

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Quantity Brief description Estimate Standard Distribution Sensitivity Uncertainty

The following measurement result is stated normally1:

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Annex B: Uncertainty in measurements using a resistance thermometer

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