Frequently Asked Questions about Infrared Thermometers
Q: What are the common applications?
A: There are many uses for non-contact thermometers.
Most commonly used for: Predictive and preventive industrial maintenance: inspection of transformers, switchboards, connectors, switchgear, rotating equipment, furnaces, etc.
Automotive: Diagnose cylinder heads and heating or cooling systems.
Heating general and air conditioning systems/dampers: Monitor air stratification, supply/return dampers and furnace performance.
Food Service and Safety: Check storage, service and storage temperatures.
Process control and monitoring: Check the process temperature of steel, glass, plastic, cement, paper, food and beverage.
Q: How is temperature measurement performed?
A: To take a temperature measurement, just point the instrument at the dot you want to measure. Be sure to take the distance-to-size ratio and field of view into account. Important things to keep in mind when using an infrared thermometer are:
1. Only the surface temperature is measured. Infrared thermometers cannot measure internal temperature.
2. Do not measure temperature through glass. Glass does not reflect and transmit differently than other materials, thus affecting infrared temperature readings.
3. It is recommended not to use infrared thermometers to measure bright or polished metal surfaces (stainless steel, aluminum, etc.).
4. Pay attention to the environmental conditions. Steam, dust, smoke, etc. cover the lens and prevent precise measurements.
5. Pay attention to the ambient temperature. If the thermometer encounters a sudden environmental temperature difference of more than 10 degrees, let the instrument adapt to the new ambient temperature for at least 20 minutes.
6. Different objects use different emissivity. (see instruction manual)
