Infrared Thermometer Uses

Thermometers that tell the temperature by measuring infrared energy from an object are called infrared thermometers. These thermometers have a lens that focuses the infrared energy on a device that converts it into an electrical signal and passes it on to a display panel, which has been calibrated to show the measurement in temperature units. The key advantage of such thermometers is their ability to measure temperature without coming in contact with the object, because infrared energy can be measured from a distance. This is particularly useful in situations where it may not be possible to measure temperature using conduction techniques, such as in industrial applications with very high temperatures or in complex mechanical assemblies with no direct accessibility.

Residential Use

• Infrared thermometers can help assess the quality of insulation in construction works such as walls, pipes, and windows. They can also be used to ascertain room temperatures or thermostat settings in heating and cooling systems. In greenhouses and outdoor gardens, infrared thermometers may be used to inspect the soil temperatures.

  In the kitchen, infrared thermometers can be used to check pantry, refrigerator, and freezer temperatures. While cooking food, they can be used for verification of cooking and serving temperatures. Another use of these thermometers is to accurately measure temperatures during preparation and storage stages of wine and beer making, since these processes are temperature sensitive.

  Infrared thermometers can also be useful while inspecting problems in household electrical or mechanical appliances. By measuring temperatures of typical heating points and ascertaining abnormal sources of heating, a quick diagnosis can be made.

  Infrared thermometers can also find uses in hobbies such as photography, because developing prints requires a control over the temperature.

Applications in Automotive and Transportation Industries

• Engine and exhaust troubleshooting in automobiles can be effectively carried out using infrared thermometers. For instance, low compression and ignition problems can be identified by scanning the manifold temperature. Incorrect fuel/air mixture leads to inefficient combustion, which can be determined by measuring the temperature of exhaust system components.

  Diagnostics of cooling systems, radiators, climate control sensors, and other devices that operate on temperature gradient can be carried out using infrared thermometers. Similarly, in brake systems of automobiles, very high temperatures of rotors, drums, or bearings indicate excessive wear and can be measured using an infrared thermometer.

Applications in Electrical and Electronics Industries

• In electrical devices and components such as connectors, motors, bearings, transformers, and batteries, any abnormal heating is indicative of malfunctioning. Since infrared thermometers measure the surface temperature of an object from a distance, they can be extremely useful in preventive maintenance operations.