The AMETEK RTC-159 is a professional reference temperature calibrator designed for highly accurate temperature sensor calibration in laboratories, pharmaceutical manufacturing, biotechnology, healthcare and industrial applications.
With an exceptionally wide temperature range from −100 °C to +155 °C, temperature stability of ±0.03 °C and accuracy down to ±0.06 °C with the specified external reference sensor, the AMETEK RTC-159 provides reliable performance for demanding temperature calibration applications.
The instrument combines advanced Free Piston Stirling Cooler technology with active dual-zone temperature control and optional Dynamic Load Compensation (DLC).
These technologies help ensure excellent temperature stability, fast heating and cooling, and outstanding temperature homogeneity within the calibration insert.
The AMETEK RTC-159 is particularly suitable for calibrating resistance temperature detectors, Pt100 sensors, thermocouples, temperature transmitters and temperature switches.
Its ultra-low temperature capability makes it especially useful for calibrating temperature sensors used in pharmaceutical freezers, ultra-low temperature storage systems, freeze-drying equipment and biotechnology applications.
The compact design, interchangeable calibration inserts, large color display and USB communication interface make the AMETEK RTC-159 suitable for both laboratory and field calibration.
For professional temperature calibration equipment and metrological traceability, visit the europascal Calibration Service.
Your Benefits at a Glance
The AMETEK RTC-159 combines excellent temperature accuracy with advanced cooling technology and convenient operation.
Its main advantages include:
- Temperature range from −100 °C to +155 °C
- Internal reference accuracy of ±0.30 °C
- Accuracy of ±0.06 °C with the specified external reference sensor
- Excellent temperature stability of ±0.03 °C
- Radial temperature homogeneity of 0.01 °C
- Free Piston Stirling Cooler technology
- Active dual-zone temperature control
- Optional Dynamic Load Compensation
- Heating from −100 °C to +23 °C in approximately 12 minutes
- Heating from +23 °C to +155 °C in approximately 14 minutes
- Cooling from +23 °C to −100 °C in approximately 135 minutes
- Interchangeable calibration inserts
- Intelligent external reference sensors
- Large 5.7-inch color display
- USB communication interface
- Automatic temperature stepping
- Optional sensor-under-test measurement
- Optional temperature switch testing
- Compatible with JofraCal calibration software
- Three configurations: RTC-159A, RTC-159B and RTC-159C
- Portable construction weighing approximately 15.2 kg
Temperature Range from −100 °C to +155 °C
The AMETEK RTC-159 provides an exceptionally wide temperature calibration range.
−100 °C to +155 °C
This temperature range covers demanding applications requiring both ultra-low and elevated temperatures.
Typical calibration temperatures include:
- −100 °C
- −90 °C
- −80 °C
- −60 °C
- −40 °C
- −20 °C
- 0 °C
- +25 °C
- +50 °C
- +100 °C
- +155 °C
The full temperature range is specified at ambient temperatures of 0 °C and 23 °C.
At an ambient temperature of 40 °C, the minimum achievable temperature is −83 °C.
The minimum temperature can also be influenced by the number and dimensions of the sensors being calibrated.
This distinction is important when selecting the instrument for demanding ultra-low temperature applications.
High Temperature Accuracy
The AMETEK RTC-159 provides two different temperature accuracy specifications.
Accuracy with Internal Reference
The manufacturer specifies:
±0.30 °C
This value describes the accuracy when using the internal temperature reference.
Accuracy with External Reference
When using the specified STS-200 external reference sensor, the manufacturer specifies:
±0.06 °C
This specification applies to the RTC-159B and RTC-159C configurations.
The external reference thermometer measures the temperature within the calibration insert.
This enables accurate comparison calibrations using a traceable reference thermometer.
The specified accuracy applies under the manufacturer’s defined conditions over a 12-month period.
It must not be confused with the expanded measurement uncertainty stated on an individual calibration certificate.
Excellent Temperature Stability
The AMETEK RTC-159 provides excellent temperature stability.
The manufacturer specifies:
±0.03 °C
Temperature stability describes the variation of the calibration temperature over time under defined operating conditions.
The manufacturer evaluates stability after the stability indicator has been active for 15 minutes, followed by a 30-minute measurement period.
Excellent temperature stability is essential for accurate temperature sensor calibration.
Stable temperature conditions help reduce measurement variations during comparison measurements.
Free Piston Stirling Cooler Technology
The AMETEK RTC-159 uses advanced Free Piston Stirling Cooler technology.
This cooling system enables the instrument to generate temperatures down to −100 °C.
The Stirling cooler operates using a closed thermodynamic cycle and provides efficient cooling performance.
Unlike conventional thermoelectric cooling systems, this technology is particularly suitable for generating very low temperatures.
The integrated cooling system eliminates the need for liquid nitrogen during normal operation.
This simplifies ultra-low temperature calibration procedures and improves portability.
The AMETEK RTC-159 is therefore particularly suitable for pharmaceutical laboratories, biotechnology companies and industrial users requiring reliable calibration below −80 °C.
Active Dual-Zone Temperature Control
The AMETEK RTC-159 features active dual-zone temperature control.
The system uses two independently controlled temperature zones.
The lower zone provides precise temperature control in the calibration area.
The upper zone compensates for heat losses caused by the open top of the calibration block and the inserted temperature sensors.
This design improves temperature homogeneity and reduces axial temperature gradients.
It is particularly useful when calibrating sensors with different dimensions or sensing element positions.
Dynamic Load Compensation
The RTC-159B and RTC-159C support Dynamic Load Compensation.
This technology is designed to reduce temperature gradients caused by the thermal loading of the calibration insert.
When several sensors are inserted simultaneously, heat conduction along the sensor stems can influence the temperature distribution.
The DLC system uses a dedicated differential temperature sensor to monitor temperature differences within the insert.
The measured information is used by the active dual-zone temperature control system to compensate for these effects.
This improves temperature homogeneity and supports accurate comparison calibration.
Dynamic Load Compensation is particularly useful when calibrating:
- Multiple temperature sensors simultaneously
- Sensors with large diameters
- Sensors with different sensing element positions
- Industrial Pt100 probes
- Temperature sensors with extended sensing elements
The DLC function requires the appropriate sensor and is available with the RTC-159B and RTC-159C configurations.
Fast Heating Performance
The AMETEK RTC-159 provides efficient heating performance.
Typical heating times include:
| Temperature Change | Heating Time |
|---|---|
| −100 °C to +23 °C | 12 minutes |
| +23 °C to +155 °C | 14 minutes |
Fast heating reduces waiting times between calibration points.
This is particularly useful when performing multi-point calibration procedures.
The actual heating time depends on ambient conditions, sensor loading and the selected calibration insert.
Efficient Cooling Performance
The AMETEK RTC-159 provides controlled cooling over its entire operating range.
Typical cooling times include:
| Temperature Change | Cooling Time |
|---|---|
| +155 °C to +23 °C | 40 minutes |
| +23 °C to −80 °C | 65 minutes |
| −80 °C to −90 °C | 20 minutes |
| −90 °C to −100 °C | 50 minutes |
| +23 °C to −100 °C | 135 minutes |
| +155 °C to −100 °C | 175 minutes |
The final cooling stage from −90 °C to −100 °C requires additional time.
This should be considered when planning calibration procedures involving extremely low temperatures.
Excellent Radial Temperature Homogeneity
The AMETEK RTC-159 provides excellent radial temperature homogeneity.
The manufacturer specifies a temperature difference between calibration holes of:
0.01 °C
This characteristic is particularly important when calibrating multiple temperature sensors simultaneously.
Good radial homogeneity helps minimize temperature differences between the reference thermometer and the devices under test.
The actual measurement uncertainty also depends on sensor geometry, immersion depth, thermal contact and loading conditions.
Interchangeable Calibration Inserts
The AMETEK RTC-159 uses interchangeable calibration inserts.
These allow different temperature sensors to be accommodated within the calibration block.
Metric and imperial multi-hole insert kits are available.
The metric insert kit covers sensor diameters from approximately 3 mm to 13 mm.
The imperial insert kit accommodates common sensor diameters from 1/8 inch to 1/2 inch.
The manufacturer specifies the following dimensions:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Calibration well diameter | 30 mm |
| Calibration well depth | 185 mm |
| Insert outer diameter | 29.7 mm |
| Insert length | 150 mm |
| Sensor immersion depth from insulation plug | 190 mm |
The appropriate insert should be selected according to the dimensions of the temperature sensors being calibrated.
Good thermal contact between the sensor and insert helps minimize measurement errors.
Intelligent External Reference Sensors
The RTC-159B and RTC-159C support intelligent external reference temperature sensors.
The specified STS-200 reference sensor contains individual calibration coefficients stored in its intelligent connector.
When the sensor is connected, the calibrator can automatically recognize the stored calibration information.
This simplifies reference thermometer setup and reduces the risk of entering incorrect calibration coefficients.
The STS-200 reference sensor features a 90-degree angled design.
This facilitates the calibration of temperature sensors with connection heads, threaded fittings or other mechanical restrictions.
Three Available Configurations
The AMETEK RTC-159 is available in three configurations.
AMETEK RTC-159A
The RTC-159A is the basic reference temperature calibrator.
It provides precise temperature generation and control using the internal temperature reference.
This configuration is suitable for applications where external measurement instruments are already available.
AMETEK RTC-159B
The RTC-159B provides the most comprehensive measurement functionality.
In addition to temperature generation, it includes:
- External reference thermometer input
- Dynamic Load Compensation sensor input
- Sensor-under-test measurement
- RTD measurement
- Thermocouple measurement
- Current measurement
- Voltage measurement
- Temperature switch testing
- Advanced calibration functions
The RTC-159B is particularly suitable for automated calibration procedures.
AMETEK RTC-159C
The RTC-159C includes an external reference thermometer input and a Dynamic Load Compensation sensor input.
It is designed for accurate temperature comparison measurements using an external reference sensor.
Unlike the RTC-159B, the RTC-159C does not provide the complete sensor-under-test measurement functionality.
Calibration of Pt100 and RTD Sensors
The AMETEK RTC-159 is particularly suitable for calibrating resistance temperature detectors.
Typical applications include Pt100, Pt1000 and industrial RTD calibration.
The temperature sensor is inserted into a suitable calibration insert.
The calibration block generates a stable temperature that can be compared with the temperature indicated by the device under test.
For demanding applications, an external reference thermometer is recommended.
The RTC-159B additionally provides integrated sensor-under-test measurement functionality.
Calibration of Thermocouples
The AMETEK RTC-159 can also be used for thermocouple calibration.
Thermocouples are widely used in industrial and laboratory temperature measurement.
The instrument provides a stable temperature environment for checking thermocouple measurement systems.
The thermocouple is inserted into the calibration block and allowed to stabilize.
Its indicated temperature can then be compared with the reference temperature.
For accurate thermocouple calibration, reference junction compensation and the measurement uncertainty of the readout must be considered.
Temperature Transmitter Calibration
The AMETEK RTC-159 is suitable for calibrating temperature transmitters.
Temperature transmitters convert temperature sensor signals into standardized electrical output signals.
A common industrial output range is:
4–20 mA
The RTC-159B can measure compatible transmitter output signals using its integrated sensor-under-test measurement functionality.
The calibration block generates the required temperature.
The transmitter output can then be compared with the expected signal at the selected temperature.
This allows the complete measurement chain to be evaluated.
Automatic Temperature Stepping
The AMETEK RTC-159 supports automatic temperature stepping.
Up to 20 temperature steps can be programmed.
The user can define temperature setpoints and holding times.
This allows the instrument to perform predefined temperature sequences automatically.
Automatic stepping is particularly useful for repetitive calibration procedures.
It reduces manual intervention and helps improve calibration efficiency.
USB Communication and Calibration Software
The AMETEK RTC-159 includes a USB communication interface.
This interface allows communication with compatible calibration software.
The instrument supports JofraCal calibration software.
The software can be used to assist with calibration procedures, documentation and data management.
Depending on the selected instrument configuration, calibration procedures can be performed with integrated measurement functions.
Computer-assisted calibration helps improve efficiency and consistency.
Applications in Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
The AMETEK RTC-159 is particularly suitable for pharmaceutical temperature calibration.
Many pharmaceutical products require storage at very low temperatures.
Ultra-low temperature freezers are commonly used to maintain temperatures below −70 °C.
Reliable temperature measurement is essential for product quality and process monitoring.
The AMETEK RTC-159 can generate temperatures down to −100 °C, making it suitable for checking sensors used in ultra-low temperature storage systems.
Typical pharmaceutical applications include:
- Ultra-low temperature freezers
- Pharmaceutical storage systems
- Freeze-drying equipment
- Lyophilization processes
- Temperature monitoring systems
- Laboratory temperature sensors
- Temperature data loggers
The instrument can also generate temperatures up to +155 °C.
This makes it suitable for additional applications such as checking temperature sensors used in autoclaves.
Portable Design
The AMETEK RTC-159 combines professional calibration performance with portable construction.
The instrument weighs approximately:
15.2 kg
Its compact design makes it suitable for transportation between laboratories and industrial measurement locations.
A protective carrying case is available as an accessory.
The case provides storage space for the calibrator, inserts, reference sensors and additional accessories.
Technical Highlights
| Specification | AMETEK RTC-159 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | AMETEK |
| Model | RTC-159 |
| Product type | Reference Temperature Calibrator |
| Temperature range at 23 °C ambient | −100 °C to +155 °C |
| Temperature range at 40 °C ambient | −83 °C to +155 °C |
| Internal reference accuracy | ±0.30 °C |
| Accuracy with external STS-200 | ±0.06 °C |
| Temperature stability | ±0.03 °C |
| Radial homogeneity | 0.01 °C |
| Temperature resolution | 1 °C / 0.1 °C / 0.01 °C / 0.001 °C |
| Cooling technology | Free Piston Stirling Cooler |
| Temperature control | Active dual-zone |
| Dynamic Load Compensation | Models B and C |
| Heating time, −100 °C to +23 °C | 12 minutes |
| Heating time, +23 °C to +155 °C | 14 minutes |
| Cooling time, +23 °C to −100 °C | 135 minutes |
| Typical stabilization time | 10 minutes |
| Well diameter | 30 mm |
| Well depth | 185 mm |
| Insert outer diameter | 29.7 mm |
| Insert length | 150 mm |
| Communication interface | USB |
| Reference sensor input | Models B and C |
| Sensor-under-test input | Model B |
| Temperature switch testing | Model B |
| Software | JofraCal |
| Operating temperature | 0 °C to +40 °C |
| Relative humidity | 0–90% RH |
| Power supply | 90–127 V or 180–254 V AC |
| Power consumption | 590 VA |
| Protection rating | IP10 |
| Weight | Approx. 15.2 kg |
Calibration Service by europascal
Regular calibration is essential for maintaining reliable and traceable temperature measurements.
europascal provides professional calibration services for temperature measuring instruments and calibration equipment.
When the AMETEK RTC-159 is used for temperature sensor calibration, the measurement uncertainty must be evaluated according to the complete calibration procedure.
Relevant uncertainty contributions may include:
- Calibration of the internal or external reference thermometer
- Temperature stability
- Axial temperature distribution
- Radial temperature distribution
- Loading effects
- Sensor immersion depth
- Thermal contact between sensor and insert
- Reference thermometer readout uncertainty
- Sensor-under-test measurement uncertainty
- Measurement repeatability
The uncertainty evaluation should follow the applicable calibration procedure and relevant metrological guidelines.
For professional calibration services and metrological traceability, visit the europascal Calibration Service.
Why Choose the AMETEK RTC-159?
The AMETEK RTC-159 combines outstanding low-temperature calibration performance with advanced temperature control and convenient operation.
Its temperature range from −100 °C to +155 °C covers demanding industrial and laboratory applications.
The Free Piston Stirling Cooler provides efficient cooling performance without requiring liquid nitrogen.
Active dual-zone temperature control helps maintain excellent temperature homogeneity.
Dynamic Load Compensation provides additional control of temperature distribution when calibrating multiple sensors simultaneously.
Temperature stability of ±0.03 °C and an accuracy of ±0.06 °C with the specified external reference sensor provide reliable conditions for precision calibration.
Interchangeable calibration inserts accommodate temperature sensors with different diameters.
Intelligent reference sensors simplify setup and reduce the risk of incorrect calibration coefficient entry.
The RTC-159B configuration provides additional measurement and documentation functions for automated calibration procedures.
For calibration laboratories, pharmaceutical manufacturers, biotechnology companies and industrial users requiring a professional ultra-low temperature calibrator, the AMETEK RTC-159 provides an excellent combination of accuracy, flexibility and efficiency.
europascal supports customers with professional temperature calibration equipment, technical advice and calibration services.
Typical Applications for the AMETEK RTC-159
Typical applications include:
- Ultra-low temperature sensor calibration
- Pt100 calibration
- Pt1000 calibration
- RTD calibration
- Thermocouple calibration
- Precision temperature measurement
- Temperature transmitter calibration
- Temperature switch testing
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing
- Biotechnology
- Ultra-low temperature freezers
- Freeze-drying equipment
- Lyophilization
- Autoclave temperature sensors
- Temperature data loggers
- Industrial process instrumentation
- Calibration laboratories
- Industrial quality assurance
- Temperature metrology
- Field calibration
The combination of an exceptionally wide temperature range, excellent temperature stability, advanced cooling technology and flexible measurement functions makes the AMETEK RTC-159 a professional solution for demanding temperature calibration applications.
Find more AMETEK calibration products at europascal.
Manufacturer information for the AMETEK RTC-159 can be found on the official AMETEK website.
