InfraRed Measurement Considerations
When taking IR measurements the meter automatically
compensates for ambient temperature changes. Note that it may
take up to 30 minutes to adjust to extremely wide ambient
changes.
Low temperature measurements quickly followed by high
temperature measurements may require several minutes to
stabilize as a result of the IR sensor cooling process.
If the surface of the object under test is covered with frost, oil,
grime, etc., clean before taking measurements.
If an object's surface is highly reflective apply masking tape or flat
black paint before measuring. Steam, dust, smoke, etc. can obstruct
measurements.
To find a hot spot, aim the meter outside the area of interest then
scan across (in an up and down motion) until the hot spot is
located.
IR Theory
IR thermometers measure the surface temperature of an object. The
meter’s optics sense emitted, reflected, & transmitted energy that is
collected and focused onto the meter’s detector. The meter’s circuitry
translates this information into an LCD reading.
IR Field of View
Ensure that the desired target is larger
than the spot size as shown in the
diagram below. As the distance from an
object increases, the spot size of the
area measured by the meter becomes
larger. The meter’s field of view ratio is
8:1, meaning that if the meter is 8 inches
from the target, the diameter (spot) of the object under test must be at
least 1 inch. Other distances are shown below in the field of view diagram.
