Resistance Temperature Detectors (RTDs) are sensors used to measure temperature by correlating the resistance of the RTD element with temperature. A three-wire configuration is a common method of connecting an RTD to a measurement device. This setup seeks to minimize the effects of lead wire resistance on the temperature reading. Because the lead wires connecting the RTD to the measuring instrument also have resistance, and this resistance changes with temperature, it can introduce error into the temperature measurement. The calculation involved uses a balanced bridge circuit or similar techniques to compensate for the lead wire resistance, aiming for a more accurate temperature determination. The system typically relies on measuring the resistance across different wire combinations to estimate and subtract the lead wire resistance from the total measured resistance, thereby isolating the resistance of the RTD element itself.
This compensation technique is crucial in applications where precision temperature measurement is essential, such as in industrial process control, scientific research, and calibration laboratories. Accurate temperature readings can directly impact product quality, process efficiency, and safety. The three-wire approach offers a significant improvement over simpler two-wire configurations, providing a more robust and reliable measurement. Historically, the development of this method represented an important step in improving the accuracy and reliability of RTD-based temperature measurement systems, allowing for more confident deployment in demanding applications.