Which type of resistor can operate at higher temperatures?

Wire-wound resistors are constructed using a metal wire, typically made of a resistive material like nichrome, wound around a core. This design allows them to handle higher temperatures compared to other types of resistors due to several factors. The materials used in wire-wound resistors have higher melting points and can withstand thermal stress without degrading. Additionally, wire-wound resistors can dissipate heat effectively across their length, reducing the risk of overheating.

In applications where high temperatures are prevalent, wire-wound resistors are often preferred for their stability and reliability. They also have lower temperature coefficients, meaning their resistance changes very little with temperature fluctuations, contributing to their performance in high-temperature environments. Other types of resistors, such as carbon-composition or thin film, may not offer the same level of heat tolerance and can be affected by temperature variations, leading to changes in resistance or even failure under extreme conditions.