Currently the only ESCC qualified Pt temperature sensors in the market, IST AG’s Hi-Rel Pt temperature sensors have been re-confirmed as suitable for space applications. The thin-film sensor elements provide stable measuring results at 100,000 cycles from -200 ° C to +200 ° C (the equivalent of the ISS circumnavigating Earth 16 times a day for nearly 20 years), which ratifies their resistance against thermal cycles and percussion.

The temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) experienced virtually no changes during tests and confirms the sensors’ drift stability. Its small size (2.3 x 2.0 x 1.1 mm), light weight and robustness due to the lack of moving parts give the component an advantage over e.g. traditionally used wire-wound sensors.

Also suitable for other High Reliability (Hi-Rel) applications in e.g. aerospace or automotive industries, the RTDs are available with different resistances, ranging from Pt100 to Pt2000. They can be used in a temperature range from -200 ° C to +200 ° C and are classified as tolerance class B (IEC 60751 F0.3). The temperature sensors are obtainable both as Engineering Model (EM) or as Flight Model (FM) and can be customized.

The next milestone in sighting distance

The high demand of customized extended wires (with an ESCC qualified wire) resulted in the next endeavor, which is the ESCC qualification of extended wires (“pigtails”) available in 4 types of wiring, which is expected to be completed by the end of this year.

With several successful space missions to look back upon, current ventures and ongoing projects as well as visions for the future, IST AG is in it for the long run.