A thermal infrared sensor is one of the vital non-contact monitoring devices used for tracking and controlling temperatures in the industrial landscape. The thermal IR sensor are primarily used for monitory applications in machinery, motion detections, electrical equipment, and quality control processes in the food, metal, and mining industry. To get an accurate measurement, it is necessary to get hold of the right product. One must consider certain factors before buying infrared thermal sensors.
Table of Contents
Wavelength
Wavelength is one of the important factors during the measurement of temperature, and it shouldn’t be ignored. The selection of wavelength in an infrared temperature sensor impacts directly the measurement of infrared radiation emitted by the specific surface. The radiation emission of an object at different wavelengths will vary when it is monitored. Metals are highly reflective objects, and they tend to have low emissions. Depending on the types of surfaces, the thermal IR sensors with specified wavelengths are used.
The advanced and modern infrared thermal sensors are equipped with features that can adjust emission correction. This helps with the precise temperature measurement at different conditions. Henceforth, when one is choosing a thermal IR sensor, he/she must know about the wavelength band. In addition, the values of object emissions over temperature and wavelength must be recorded as well.
Range of temperature
The best aspect of thermal IR sensors is that there is a vast range of temperatures that can be measured, whether it is way below the freezing point, or as high as 2200oC. when the sensors need to be used in laboratories, or hot blast furnaces, the thermal IR sensors are equipped with features to give a correct temperature reading under extreme environmental conditions. Thus, it is important to consider the temperature range of the sensors before investing in a particular device. The appropriate temperature is important for monitoring and controlling different cooling and heat-treating applications.
Response time
When measuring, moving, or quickly heating and cooling objects, thermal IR sensors with quick response times are needed. The market is flooded with a wide array of sensors with a response time of as low as 1 millisecond. Furthermore, there are certain applications where there is an adequate thermal lag in the process of heating. In such scenarios, the thermal sensors might exceed the potential of the present control and measurement instrument. In cases like this, IR sensors with moderate response time are the best option.
Application type
Factors like noise, dust, vapor, gas, vibrations and electromagnetic fields can be the reasons behind inaccurate temperature measurements. In addition, such environmental factors can also damage the lens of the sensors. Hence, one must choose IR sensors with features like protective air purging, housing, and water cooling. This is because the features can protect the sensor device against environmental factors and render accurate results.
Conclusion
The above-mentioned are some of the considerations that must be taken into light when choosing thermal IR sensors. Considering the factors help a buyer get hold of the right device that renders optimal temperature monitoring and control
