BTC-BAY Fast Response Copper Tip Bayonet Thermocouple

SKU: BTC-BAY

BTC-BAY Fast Response Copper Tip Bayonet Thermocouple

Adjustable Bayonet Bearing Thermocouple for Reliable Temperature Monitoring of Rotating Equipment

Protect critical rotating equipment with the BTC-BAY Copper Tip Bearing Thermocouple. Featuring an adjustable spring-loaded bayonet and copper sensing tip, it delivers fast, dependable bearing temperature measurement for motors, pumps, compressors, gearboxes, and other industrial machinery. Available in Type K, J, and T, the BTC-BAY helps detect overheating early to improve equipment reliability and reduce unplanned downtime.

Copper Sensing Tip

Improves heat transfer for faster temperature response

Fast Response

Detects temperature changes quickly and accurately

Easy Insatallation

Spring-loaded bayonet lock allows fast installation and simple adjustment

Rugged Construction

Protects against vibration, abrasion, and mechanical damage

Multiple Terminations

Choose connector styles to match your application.

Custom Configurable

Custom-built to meet your process and installation requirements

Download Datasheet

Quick Specifications

Thermocouple Type Type K,J & T
Measuring Junction Ungrounded
Sensing Tip Copper Tip
Bayonet Design Adjustable Spring-Loaded
Sheath Material SS316 Stainless Steel
Sheath Diameter 3/16 in (4.76 mm)
Ideal for
Compressors
Electric Motors
Mining
OEM Equipment
Plastic
Predictive Maintenance
Pump
Turbine

When accurate bearing temperature monitoring is critical to equipment reliability, the BTC-BAY Copper Tip Bearing Thermocouple provides a dependable solution for measuring bearing temperatures on rotating machinery. Designed with an adjustable spring-loaded bayonet and a high thermal conductivity copper sensing tip, the sensor maintains consistent contact with the bearing housing to deliver fast, reliable, and repeatable temperature measurements. By detecting abnormal temperature increases early, maintenance teams can identify developing bearing problems before they result in costly equipment failures or unplanned downtime.

Unlike conventional fixed-length bearing thermocouples, the BTC-BAY allows the immersion depth to be adjusted during installation. This makes it easier to achieve proper contact with the bearing housing without changing the sensor or modifying the mounting arrangement. The spring-loaded bayonet continuously applies controlled pressure against the measurement surface, helping maintain stable contact even on equipment exposed to vibration, thermal expansion, or normal mechanical movement. Combined with the copper sensing tip, which transfers heat significantly faster than stainless steel alone, the sensor responds quickly to changes in bearing temperature, allowing operators to react sooner to developing process conditions.

Manufactured with a durable 316 stainless steel sheath, the BTC-BAY is built for demanding industrial environments. It is available in Type K, Type J, and Type T thermocouples, with a wide selection of sheath lengths, lead wire insulation, connector styles, armored cable protection, and mounting accessories. Each sensor can be configured to match the application’s operating temperature, installation requirements, and environmental conditions.

The BTC-BAY is commonly installed on electric motors, pumps, compressors, turbines, generators, gearboxes, fans, blowers, conveyors, mixers, and other rotating equipment where continuous bearing temperature monitoring is an important part of a preventive or predictive maintenance program. Monitoring bearing temperature helps maintenance personnel identify problems such as inadequate lubrication, excessive loading, shaft misalignment, bearing wear, or developing mechanical faults before they lead to unexpected shutdowns.

The sensor is suitable for both OEM equipment manufacturers designing new machinery and maintenance teams replacing existing bearing temperature sensors during repairs or plant upgrades. Whether the application requires a standard configuration or a custom-built assembly, the BTC-BAY can be supplied with the appropriate thermocouple type, cable construction, connector, mounting hardware, and accessories to simplify installation and ensure reliable long-term performance.

At Tempotech Controls, we understand that no two applications are exactly the same. Our engineering team works closely with customers to configure bearing thermocouples that match the process, operating environment, and installation requirements rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all solution. From standard replacement sensors to fully customized assemblies, the BTC-BAY is designed to provide dependable temperature measurement, easy installation, and long service life in demanding industrial applications.

Product Specifications

Review the standard specifications and available configuration options for the BTC-BAY Copper Tip Bearing Thermocouple. Product dimensions, materials, temperature ratings, and optional features may vary depending on the selected configuration

Thermocouple TypeType K,J & T
Measuring JunctionUngrounded
Sensing TipCopper Tip
Bayonet DesignAdjustable Spring-Loaded
Sheath MaterialSS316 Stainless Steel
Sheath Diameter3/16 in (4.76 mm)
Immersion and Lead LengthConfigurable
Lead Wire InsulationTeflon or Fiberglass
Maximum Temperature*Up to 205°C (Teflon), 510°C (Fiberglass)
Cable ProtectionOptional Stainless Steel Armor
Installation TypeAdjustable Bayonet Mount
Industry StandardsASTM E230, IEC 60584

Spare Parts & Accessories

Complete your installation with compatible mounting accessories, connectors, and replacement components for the BTC-BAY Bearing Thermocouple.

Image: BT-MC PROTECTION BOOT FOR MINI CONNECTOR

BT-MC PROTECTION BOOT FOR MINI CONNECTOR

The two flexible silicone rubber boots will cover the connector set snugly and prevent moisture, water and dirt entering the connector. Construction Silicone cover with retention ring prevent disconnection due to vibration.…

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Image: BT-MC PROTECTION BOOT FOR MINI CONNECTOR

BT-SC PROTECTION BOOT FOR STD. CONNECTOR

The two flexible silicone rubber boots will cover the connector set snugly and prevent moisture, water and dirt entering the connector. Construction Silicone cover with retention ring prevent disconnection due to vibration.…

Find more…
Read

Product Videos

Watch product overview, installation, and application videos for the BTC-BAY Bearing Thermocouple

Temperature Transmitter | Tempotech Controls Inc

PT2M44S

A temperature transmitter takes the temperature data from a sensor, like an RTD or thermocouple, and converts it into a standard signal, usually 4-20mA or 0-10V. This signal can be sent to control systems, PLCs, or monitoring equipment to keep track of temperature in real-time.

Read transcript

Video Transcription: Temperature Transmitter Technology & Application
[00:05] A temperature transmitter is a critical component in industrial automation that converts low-level sensor signals into standardized outputs. This ensures accurate, reliable, and long-distance signal transmission for complex control systems.

[00:14] Thermocouple and RTD sensors are the industry standards for measuring the temperature of processed media. However, in challenging environments—characterized by high temperatures, electromagnetic interference (EMI), or long cable runs—the raw signals from these sensors can degrade.

[00:33] This signal degradation, often caused by wire resistance and electrical noise, can lead to inaccurate readings. To mitigate these issues, temperature transmitters are used to amplify, condition, and convert sensor data into a standardized 4-20mA output, ensuring high-integrity data across the plant.

[00:59] Several signal types are used depending on the application:

4 to 20 mA Analog Signal: The most common standard, highly resistant to noise and ideal for long distances.

0 to 10V: A common analog option, though more susceptible to signal loss over length.

Digital Signals (HART & Modbus): Used for advanced remote communication and diagnostics.

RS485/RS232: Essential for integrating transmitters with PLCs and SCADA systems.

[01:35] The Tempotech TT367 series temperature transmitters are engineered for versatility. They offer precise sensor-transmitter matching and robust protection against interference. Configurable via the HART protocol, these units allow for easy setup and reliable field operation.

[01:56] Key reliability features include open/short-circuit detection, incorrect wiring alerts, and NAMUR NE43 failure standards. The TT367 supports RTD, TC, Ohm, and Millivolt inputs, making it a universal solution for your instrumentation needs.

[02:26] With integrated dot-matrix displays and easy configuration options, our transmitters provide the precision you can trust. Contact our technical sales team today to find the best transmitter for your application.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about the BTC-BAY Copper Tip Bearing

What is the advantage of a copper sensing tip?+

Copper conducts heat significantly better than stainless steel, allowing heat to reach the sensing junction more quickly. This improves the thermocouple's response time, helping detect bearing temperature changes sooner during start-up, load variations, or developing bearing faults.

Why should I choose the BTC-BAY Bearing Thermocouple over a standard bearing sensor?+

The BTC-BAY is designed for applications where maintaining reliable contact with the bearing housing is important. Its adjustable spring-loaded bayonet keeps the copper sensing tip firmly against the surface, helping improve heat transfer and temperature response. This makes it well suited for monitoring rotating equipment where early detection of overheating can help reduce unplanned downtime.

Which thermocouple type should I choose: Type K, J, or T?+

Type K is the most common choice for industrial bearing temperature monitoring because it offers a wide operating temperature range and excellent durability. Type J is suitable for moderate-temperature applications, while Type T is often selected for lower-temperature applications where good accuracy is required. If you're unsure, our technical team can help you select the best option for your application.

How is the BTC-BAY Bearing Thermocouple mounted?+

The BTC-BAY is installed using a spring-loaded adjustable bayonet adapter, which keeps the copper sensing tip in constant contact with the bearing housing. The correct adapter size and mounting method depend on your equipment and installation requirements. For the best performance, use the recommended bayonet adapter and mounting accessories listed in the Spare Parts & Accessories section. If you're unsure which adapter is suitable, Tempotech Controls can help you select the correct size for your application.

Can the BTC-BAY Bearing Thermocouple be customized?+

Yes. The BTC-BAY can be manufactured with different immersion lengths, lead wire lengths, insulation materials, connector styles, armored cable protection, and accessories. If your application has specific installation or environmental requirements, Tempotech Controls can configure the sensor to match your needs.

How do I select the correct immersion length?+

The sensing tip should make firm contact with the bearing housing without excessive spring compression. Selecting the correct immersion length ensures reliable heat transfer and accurate temperature measurement. If you're replacing an existing sensor, matching the original immersion length is usually the best starting point.