A quick guide to infrared thermometers

Infrared (IR) thermometers are valuable tools used for their accurate and consistent measurement of temperature in different environments and scenarios. They are used in many industries that require reliable and efficient temperature measurements. It’s important to note that these are industrial tools, not medical ones for measuring body temperature.

What is an infrared thermometer?

The best infrared thermometers from Testo are highly precise, safe and robust. These kinds of thermometers use infrared technology to measure surface temperature, and in some cases internal temperature, in a fast, non-contact way. In addition to traditional thermometers, pyrometers (also known as laser pointer thermometers or IR thermometers) are also proven instruments for measuring temperature.

Many different industries benefit from good infrared thermometers because environmental control is important in quality control. Here are some of the different trades and occupations that rely on accurate measurement:

HVAC
Electrical
Processing plants
Food production, food service and retail
Other industrial areas

Industrial infrared thermometers enable you to carry out efficient and necessary temperature measurements, including providing accurate measurement area readings for reflective surfaces. The non-contact IR thermometer will ensure that you are well equipped, especially for undertaking control measurements in trade and industry.

Applications of an infrared thermometer

An infrared thermometer has many industrial applications. The benefits of an infrared thermometer that is non-contact can give an accurate temperature reading of the surface or a chosen specific location. Consistency and accuracy is key in these uses and is often recorded to ensure safety.

Non-contact thermometers are ideal for moving targets and machinery because the temperature measurement can be taken from a distance. In addition, laser pointer thermometers find use in hazardous or inaccessible targets. Recording these accurate measurements not only provides an element of quality control but also protects the company from potential litigation.

Maintenance

Many different industries rely on their equipment and machinery working in peak condition to operate effectively. Hot spots are often indicative of potential issues that could arise in that piece of machinery. Temperature audits are conducted for this very reason. They can prevent the equipment from breaking down completely because an expert can assess the issues and possibly replace or fix the impending problem.

Building and storage temperatures

Building and warehouse managers can use infrared thermometers to find leaks in insulation using surface temperature differences or to ensure that the storage temperature is accurate and safe for the product. This can save the manufacturer money because they can address environmental-related issues. Some products require specific temperatures and there should be little to no deviation from them, which is why an accurate reading is necessary. This is something that an infrared temperature measuring instrument can help maintain.

Food temperatures and incoming goods check

It is extremely important that certain food is transported, stored and served at a particular temperature. If caterers, supermarkets and other food businesses fail to do so, not only will their reputation be at stake, but they could be in violation of food safety regulations.

Mould detection

The infrared non-contact thermometer testo 805i, as well as the testo Smart Probes App, are useful professional tools in detecting possible mould. Room temperature and humidity are valuable data points in discovering mould in the home or workplace.

How do I read an infrared thermometer gun?

Testo thermometers are user-friendly, but common mistakes still happen. In order to get the most accurate readings, it is important to know how to use them. Here are some of the most important tips:

Ensure that the lens is clean.
Try to make sure that the surface is relatively dirt free.
Get as close as you can to the target.
Calibrate the tool.
Ensure you have the correct emissivity setting.

To learn more about using a non-contact infrared thermometer to measure temperature in a food application, download our How-to Guide.

How do I calibrate an infrared thermometer?

Accuracy is important to maintain in your thermometer, and calibration is key to ensuring a good temperature reading. It protects you and your clients from potential issues. Calibration includes documentation of the temperature deviation and calculation of the measurement uncertainty. This fact sheet goes into detail about the differences between calibration and adjustment, as well as the importance of standards and traceability.

Here is some basic calibration information that any IR thermometer user should know in order to get the best readings. The difference between calibration and adjustment is valuable to know:

Calibration: Comparison of temperature measurement values, traceable to a (national) standard.
Adjustment: Setting a measuring instrument to the smallest possible deviation from the correct value. In adjustment, interference with the instrument is necessary.

A knowledgeable professional can perform most minor adjustments themselves, but calibration can be more complicated. Calibrations are required by law in Australia and companies that choose an accredited calibration service can get a higher score. To learn more about calibration and its importance, check out our Infosheet for extensive information. Testo Service can be contacted via service@testo.com.au or by calling (03) 8761 6108.

Testo’s selection of IR thermometers

Testo has a wide range of infrared thermometers for a variety of different requirements and industries. We have some of the best and classic tools that could increase your temperature gun measuring prowess. Here are few options, ones with infrared options and one with both laser and probe capabilities especially useful in the food sector.