Temperature Sensors

Basic Description

Automotive temperature sensors are usually relatively simple devices that exhibit a resistance that depends on the temperature. Temperature sensors are used at various places in an automobile:

Engine Temperature Sensor

This sensor is installed in the coolant circuit. The engine control module uses its signal to determine the temperature of the engine. The measuring range of this type of sensor is usually from -40 degrees to +130 degrees Celsius.

Air Temperature Sensor

The air temperature sensor is installed in the intake manifold and is used to measure the temperature of the engine intake air. The The engine control module uses the air temperature and pressure to calculate the intake air mass. The measuring range of this type of sensor is usually from -40 degrees Celsius to +120 degrees Celsius.

Engine Oil Temperature Sensor

This sensor is used to calculate the temperature of the engine oil. The measuring range of engine oil temperature sensor is generally from -40 degrees to +170 degrees Celsius.

Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor

The exhaust gas temperature sensor usually employs a platinum measuring resistor. Information from this sensor is used to regulate the exhaust gas recirculation system in an engine. This sensor is mounted in the exhaust system of the engine. The measuring range is usually from -40 degrees to +1000 degrees Celsius.

Manufacturers

Beru, Bosch, Continental, Delphi, Denso

For More Information

[1] Temperature Measurement, Wikipedia.

[2] Measuring the Air Intake Temperature in Motorcycle Engines, GE Sensing Application Note 930-123A, Nov. 2005.