A foolproof guide radiation thermometer— Understanding non-contact temperature measurement with general Q&A

Basic

What is the measurement principle of radiation thermometer?

The infrared rays (thermal radiation) emitted by the target object are collected by a lens, and the sensor converts this into an electrical signal that is then converted into temperature. The surface temperature is measured, and the laser light is a target marker.

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What is emissivity?emissivity

emissivity (epsilon) is a coefficient that expresses "how much infrared radiation the surface emits" on a scale of 0 to 1. Painted surfaces and wood have a higher coefficient (e.g., 0.90 to 0.98), while mirrored metal surfaces have a lower coefficient, which can lead to large errors if the settings are not matched.

We have an emissivity table, so please check here for details.

I don't know emissivity. How do I determineemissivityprocedure

1) Set a provisional value close to that of the material in emissivity table → 2) Fine-tune to match the reference temperature measured with a contact thermometer such as a thermocouple → 3) For difficult objects such as blackbody tape or matte black paint and measure from there. This is the most reliable way to proceed.

Can you measure objects through glass?

This is not possible with standard models. The temperature display is the surface temperature of the glass in front of you. Make sure you measure from a position where you can see the object directly.

We handle radiation thermometer for glass. For more information, please click here.

radiation thermometer? Can it measure internal temperature?

Only surface temperature can be measured non-contact. If you need to check the internal temperature, please use a contact thermometer such as a thermocouple or resistance thermometer.

What is the difference between radiation thermometer and a thermograph (infrared camera)?Differences in equipment

radiation thermometer is a device that quickly measures the temperature of a single point, while a thermograph is a device that visualizes the temperature distribution over a surface in an image. Thermography is suitable for detecting abnormalities over a wide area and observing radiation thermometer. In addition, some radiation thermometer are scanning type, which can measure temperature as a line rather than a point by rotation the element.

Are they measuring the temperature with a laser? (For targeting?)Laser

Temperature is calculated from the amount of infrared light. The laser is only a target and does not directly affect the measurement.

What is distance to spot size (D:S ratio)?

The D:S ratio is the ratio of "measurement distance (Distance) to spot diameter (Spot)". The farther the distance, the wider the measurement area, so as a guideline, the target should be at least twice the size of the spot diameter.

How to use

What distance should I aim at?D:S ratioaiming method

Using the D:S diagram in the instruction manual as a guide, move as close as possible so that the object fits within field of view. If in doubt, the golden rule is "closer, smaller."

What's the trick to measuring moving objects correctly?Scan

Slowly scan across the measurement line and pick up the maximum (peak) on display, using the reading hold function if necessary.

How to avoid the effects of reflections and backgrounds?

Mirrors and shiny surfaces reflect the surrounding infrared light. Adjust the angle so that hot objects in the background do not enter field of view, and if necessary, block the surrounding area with shielding shield or black cloth.

Should I adjust emissivity every time? (When to use hold function)emissivityfunction

If the material and finish are the same, frequent changes are not necessary. However, since emissivity changes depending on the target, making a note of each material will improve repeatability. Use peak/average/minimum hold depending on the application.

Can I record data and connect to a smartphone?Logging

Depending on the model, you can save logs or connect to a PC or smartphone via internal memory, USB, Bluetooth, etc. Choose the model based on the number of records you need and models (CSV, etc.).

Measurable/unmeasurable

How to measure specular metals and aluminum correctly?Low emissivity

Specular surfaces have low emissivity and are greatly affected by reflection. Create a "measurement spot" using blackbody tape or matte black paint, or consider a sensor with a wavelength (short wavelength) or dichroic ratio method appropriate for the target.

Can you measure liquids (water, oil, molten materials)?

Measurements can be taken as long as the surface is visible, but ripples, bubbles, and splashes will make the reading unstable. Repeated measurements in a quiet place or in the same position will ensure stability.

What are the uses and limitations of food and cooking utensils?Kitchen

It is effective for controlling surface temperatures (such as griddles, oil, and pizza stones). However, to safely check the core temperature, please use a contact thermometer such as a thermocouple.

Can it be used to measure human body temperature (difference from medical use)?

Industrial radiation thermometer are not medical devices. For clinical temperature determination, medical equipment that complies with applicable standards (e.g. ISO 80601-2-56 / ASTM E1965) should be used.

Can it be used in a furnace or explosion proof environment?Special environment

For high-temperature furnaces and hazardous locations, dedicated models (high-temperature compatible, heat-resistant accessories, explosion proof certification, etc.) are required. Be sure to check specifications and scope of application.

environmental impact

What about in environments with a lot of wind, steam, smoke, or dust?environment

Infrared rays are blocked, resulting in errors. Choose a location with a clear field of view and frequently clean the lens. Also, by using a two-color radiation thermometer that is resistant to dirt, it may be possible to measure the temperature from the energy difference. Please contact us for more information.

Precautions when exposed to strong sunlight or radiant heat from a furnacereflection

Reflections from surrounding hot surfaces may result in a higher reading. This can be reduced by not including heat sources in field of view, blocking the light with shielding shield, or adjusting the measurement angle.

What is the ambient temperature and warm-up time?Environment

The device has an operating temperature range. If you bring it into a sudden temperature environment, it will stabilize after a few minutes of acclimatization.

Will dirt and dew condensation on the lens or protective window cause errors?

Yes. Dirt and dew condensation will block infrared rays. Please clean the unit by wiping it with a soft cloth and letting it dry, as instructed in the instruction manual.

troubleshooting

Unable to measure the correcttemperature

Common causes include (a) insufficient D:S causing extraneous surfaces in field of view, (b) emissivity settings or specular reflection, (c) obstruction by steam or dust, (d) reflection from a strong heat source in the background, and (e) insufficient temperature adaptation of the equipment. First, take measures by getting closer, reviewing emissivity, and cleaning the lens.

What is the reason why my readings are always low/high?Identifying the cause

If there is a deviation in one direction, it is likely due to the emissivity setting or the influence of reflection. Make a reference point using blackbody tape and compare it to it, then fine-tune emissivity.

How can you spot lack of view (mixing in ambient temperature)?field of view

If there are areas of different temperatures around the target, they will be averaged out. By shifting the target slightly and looking for the maximum/minimum values, you can see whether there is an effect.

What symptoms do lens dirt, temperature drift, and remaining battery power cause?Maintenance

Dirt on the lens will cause the readings to be unstable/low, temperature drift will cause the readings to not settle after a sudden change in the environment, and low battery will cause display to be delayed or a warning lights to flash. These issues can usually be resolved by cleaning and replacing the battery.

Inspection and calibration

Is there a way to check radiation thermometer?

On-site, it is easy to compare with a calibrated contact thermometer. If high accuracy is required, calibration is performed using blackbody furnace.

Tips for simple inspections you can do yourself (blackbody tape)Inspection

By sticking blackbody tape on mirrored or metal surfaces and using it as a reference point, you can fine-tune emissivity to match the contact meter value, making it useful for daily inspections.

What are the calibration intervals and traceability?Calibration

The interval should be set according to the frequency of use and the required accuracy. Generally, annual calibration is recommended. For process that require quality assurance, we recommend regular calibration with traceable calibration certificates.

What is blackbody (reference source)?standard

This is a standard heat source with emissivity close to 1, and is used to calibrate radiation thermometer. It has a uniform surface with a constant temperature, allowing for highly reliable comparisons.

Safety/Standards

What is the safety and class of laser?Laser

Most lasers are Class 2. Please observe basic rules when using them, such as not pointing them directly at eyes or mirrors (reference standards: IEC 60825-1 / JIS C 6802).

Precautions when using for medical purposesmedical care

Industrial thermometers are not medical devices. For clinical temperature assessment, use a thermometer that meets medical standards (e.g., ISO 80601-2-56, ASTM E1965).

Can you check the waterproof/ dust proof (IP) and drop resistance performancerobust

Please check the IP rating (e.g. IP54, IP67) and drop height rating in specifications. IP is a protection rating based on IEC 60529.

Selection guidelines

Which D:S ratio should I choose?

A larger D:S ratio is more advantageous when measuring small or distant objects. You can't go wrong by determining the measurement distance and required spot diameter before making your selection.

What about the measurement temperature range, accuracy, and repeatability?specifications

"Range" is the range of temperature reached, "Accuracy" is the proximity to the true value, and "repeatability (repeatability)" is the stability that gives the same value under the same conditions. Determine the level you need for your application and check it out in the specifications table.

What are the effects of different wavelengths (short wavelength/long wavelength)?Wavelength

Short wavelengths can be advantageous for highly reflective targets such as hot metals, while longer wavelengths (8–14 µm) are more commonly used for plastics and food.

What is the difference between aiming lasers (single dot/two dots/circle)?Aiming

The single point is easy to aim at, while the two points give you an idea of the spot diameter. The circular sight is a system that makes it easy to intuitively grasp field of view.

How to choose between portable and fixed type?Selection

Portable types are suitable for inspections and spot measurements, while fixed types are suitable for line monitoring and automatic recording. Choose based on data integration and response speed.

Reference materials (public information)

  • IEC 60825-1 / JIS C 6802: Safety standards for laser products
  • ISO 80601-2-56 / ASTM E1965: Standard for medical thermometers
  • IEC 60529: IP Code (dust proof and water proof)

*The information on this page is a guide based on general principles and practical practices. For final decisions, please refer to the instruction manual for your device and the latest standards.

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