What’s the Difference Between Direct Weld Compression Fittings, Stainless Steel Weld Bungs, Mild Steel Bungs, and Clamp-On Fittings for Thermocouples?

Submitted by Robd on

Proper installation is essential for accurate and reliable temperature readings in industrial applications. HGSI offers a variety of thermocouple mounting solutions to fit different environments, materials, and operational needs. Here's a breakdown of the most common options and where each one excels:

1. Direct Weld Compression Fitting

Overview:
A compression fitting is welded directly onto the process pipe, duct, or surface.

Advantages:

  • Clean and compact installation – ideal where space is limited.
  • Permanent solution – provides a secure and stable mounting.

Best For:

  • Industrial machinery or piping where access is limited.
  • Long-term, high-vibration environments requiring robust mounting.

2. Weld Bung & Separate Compression Fitting

Overview:
A threaded steel bung is welded to the process equipment, allowing the thermocouple to be installed or removed easily using a compression fitting.

Advantages:

  • Threaded design allows for easy probe maintenance or replacement.

Best For:

  • Applications requiring regular sensor service or calibration checks.

4. Clamp-On or Surface-Mount Fittings

Overview:
These fittings use mechanical fasteners or magnets to attach the thermocouple directly to the measurement surface—no welding required.

Advantages:

  • Non-permanent – ideal for testing, diagnostics, or systems that can't be modified.
  • Quick installation – no special tools or downtime needed.
  • Great for R&D and field service work.

Considerations:

  • Less robust than welded options in high-vibration environments.

Best For:

  • Research and development.
  • Temporary monitoring in manufacturing lines or rotating equipment.

Need Help Selecting the Right Mounting Option?
HGSI’s application engineers are here to help. Whether you're retrofitting an existing system or building a new process, we can recommend or customize a solution to meet your temperature sensing requirements.

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