Balco® is a proprietary alloy composed of 70% nickel and 30% iron, designed for use in electrical applications requiring predictable resistance behavior over a wide temperature range.
Balco® is a resistance alloy valued for its consistent and measurable change in electrical resistance when exposed to temperature fluctuations. This property makes it especially useful in resistance temperature detectors (RTDs), HVAC controls, and environmental monitoring systems. With a relatively high temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR), Balco® enables precise detection of small temperature changes, ensuring accuracy in feedback and control systems. The alloy is also mechanically durable and corrosion-resistant, allowing long-term reliability in demanding environments such as industrial facilities, data centers, and institutional infrastructure. While not suited for high-voltage or high-current applications, Balco® is critical for precise thermal regulation in building automation and advanced climate control networks.
Temperature sensing devices using Balco® may align with design and safety recommendations from ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) and IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers).
Balco® was developed and trademarked by the Wilbur Driver Company to provide thermally sensitive wire for industrial controls. It became closely associated with temperature compensation in sensors and remains in use today, particularly within legacy and OEM systems.