How does Infrared thermometer work?
In nature, all objects whose temperature is higher than the absolute zero which is -273C radiates electromagnetic waves to surroundings. The relationship between the density of radiation energy and the object's temperature follows the Stefan-Boltzmann law.
Stefan-Boltzmann law, statement that the total radiant heat power emitted from a surface is proportional to the fourth power of its absolute temperature. Formulated in 1879 by Austrian physicist Josef Stefan as a result of his experimental studies, the same law was derived in 1884 by Austrian physicist Ludwig Boltzmann from thermodynamic considerations: if E is the radiant heat energy emitted from a unit area in one second (that is, the power from a unit area) and T is the absolute temperature (in kelvins), then E = σT4, the Greek letter sigma (σ) representing the constant of proportionality, called the Stefan-Boltzmann constant. This constant has the value 5.670374419 × 10−8 watt per metre2 per K4. The law applies only to blackbodies, theoretical surfaces that absorb all incident heat radiation.
The infrared thermometer works based on the same principle. The object infrared energy is measured by the thermopile sensor. The sensor then convert the infrared energy into thermoelectricity signals which can be displayed in a human readable fashion.
The infrared temperature sensor can also detect infrared energy emitted by the eardrum. A built-in lens focuses and collects energy. it will be converted into a temperature reading through complex electronic circuitry.
WHY INFRARED?
There are a number of reasons why you should consider choosing infrared technology for your temperature reading needs. When shopping for a thermometer to add to your stable of equipment, consider purchasing a quality infrared thermometer for some of the following reasons.
1. Accuracy. Obviously, you need to be confident that you are getting an accurate reading from your thermometer when you put it to use, and infrared models have a great reputation for accuracy. The technology used in these products is simple yet advanced, and you should be able to rely on the information that you receive - provided that the thermometer is used in the right way.
2. Safety. One of the great things about being able to check on temperature remotely is that you don't actually need to touch the object in question. If you are trying to take the temperature of a particularly hot item, you won't need to place your hand, or even another piece of equipment, onto the hot surface. Just by aiming your IR thermometer at the object you wish to measure, you can get all of the information you need without putting yourself at risk.
3. Contamination prevention. Another benefit to the remote measuring system is avoidance of contamination. This is particularly important within the food service world, but it applies in other applications as well. Since you don't need to touch the item that you are measure, you won't need to worry about contaminating that product with the probe of a thermometer. Rather than having to make sure that all of your temperature measuring equipment is properly sterilized prior to each use, you can simply point the IR gun at the item being measured and forget any worries about contamination problems.
4. Durability. You want an Infrared Thermometer that is tough enough to stand up to the demands of the jobsite, workshop or just being bounced around in your toolbox.
There are certainly more than three advantages to using infrared, but the three listed above are some of the most important. Additionally, the cost of this technology has come down in recent years, meaning you can access this great method of temperature measurement for a significantly lower cost than it would have required just a few short years ago.