What is a PTC130 sensor ?
The PTC130 is a positive temperature coefficient thermistor designed to detect and signal the exceedance of a predefined temperature limit, here approximately 130 °C.
Below this threshold, the resistance is low and stable; beyond it, it increases sharply, triggering a cutoff or alarm signal in the circuit.
These sensors are widely used for the thermal protection of electric motors, transformer windings, coils, and power supplies.
Operating principle
Unlike linear sensors (KTY, RTD), the PTC130 operates in threshold mode.
When the temperature reaches the nominal value, the resistance increases sharply — typically from 150 Ω to several kilo-ohms over a few degrees.
Typical behavior curve:
| Temperature (°C) | Resistance (Ω) |
| 20 | 150 |
| 100 | 180 |
| 130 | 1 650 |
| 140 | 4 500 |
| 160 | 10 000 |
| 180 | 20 000 |
🧠 This rapid increase in resistance allows for triggering a command or cutting off a relay in case of overheating.
Technical specifications
| Parameter | Typical value |
| Nominal resNominal temperature (T_N) | 130°C |
| Resistance at 25 °C (R_25) | 150 Ω ±20 % |
| Resistance at T_N | ≥ 1650 Ω |
| Maximum measuring current | 2,5 mA |
| Electrical isolation | ≥ 2,5 kV |
| Response time | 3 to 5 s |
| Case | Epoxy, glass or encapsulated ceramic |
Wiring Configuration
| Type | Description | Precision |
2-wire |
Simple connection (series in the control circuit). | ✅ Standard |
Multiple chain |
Several PTCs in series for multi-winding motors. | 🏆 Industrial |
Integrated |
Stuck in the winding or encapsulated in resin. | 💡 Engine protection |
Self-heating
The recommended measurement current is very low (< 2.5 mA) so as not to influence the threshold behavior.
Self-heating is almost negligible, even at the limit temperature.
Application areas
⚙️ Protection of three-phase electric motors
🔋 Thermal monitoring of transformers and inductors
🧱 Temperature control in converters and inverters
🧠 Thermal safety devices (alarm, shutdown)
🚗 Protection of batteries or charging modules