A pyrometer is an instrument used to measure temperature across various industries to produce quality products safely and efficiently. To choose the industrial pyrometer your organisation should use, you must understand its workings, use cases, and technical specifications. This blog will discuss the factors to consider when selecting the right pyrometer for your industrial use case.
Understanding Pyrometers and Their Applications
A pyrometer is a device that measures temperature without needing physical contact with the object. It measures temperature by detecting the thermal radiation from an object without physical contact. The pyrometer instrument is used across multiple industries for these use cases:
- Metal processing: A furnace requires a pyrometer, which monitors temperatures during metal processing operations, including casting, forging, and welding.
- Glass manufacturing: A pyrometer is used to check the temperature of manufactured glass, as the quality of the final product depends on this manufacturing temperature.
- Ceramics industry: It is used to monitor kilns and ceramic product temperature at all times.
- Semiconductor industry: This instrument measures temperature when the wafer is being processed.
- Automotive and Aerospace: It is used for quality control in production and maintenance processes in these sectors.
Key Factors in Pyrometer Selection
When choosing pyrometers for use, several factors need to be considered.
A list of these factors is given below:
- Temperature measurement range
- Wavelength
- Optical resolution
- Emissivity settings
- Compliance with industry standards
Selecting Appropriate Wavelength for Accuracy
When choosing between different infrared pyrometers, wavelength is of the utmost importance. Different materials emit infrared radiation at varying wavelengths, so choosing the wrong range may result in inaccurate readings.
- Short wavelength (0.7–2.6 µm): Ideal for measuring high temperatures, like metals and molten steel.
- Mid-wavelength (3–5 µm): Due to their high penetrative abilities, they are best suited to measuring the temperature of glass and ceramics.
- Long wavelength (8–14 µm): It is best suited to low-temperature measurements such as plastic and paper.
Determining the Suitable Temperature Range
The temperature range to be measured differs from industry to industry. When choosing among industrial pyrometers, consider the temperature range it supports.
- A low-temperature pyrometer (up to 500°C) suits the food processing, textile, and plastic industries.
- A medium-temperature pyrometer (500°C–1,200°C) is used in glass manufacturing, ceramics, and foundries.
- High-temperature pyrometer (above 1,200°C): This instrument is essential in metal processing, steel plants, and aerospace.
Evaluating Optical Resolution and Field of View
Optical resolution describes how accurately an industrial pyrometer can measure the temperature of a tiny target at a distance from it. It can be described using the distance-to-spot ratio (D: S ratio).
- High D:S ratio: It allows accurate readings from a greater distance and measures the temperature of small objects.
- Low D:S ratio: It can measure the temperature of large objects placed close to it.
Considering Emissivity Settings and Adjustments
Emissivity refers to the efficiency with which a material emits infrared rays. Different surfaces have different emissivity levels, and to ensure accurate readings, you should look for adjustable emissivity settings before choosing among the industrial pyrometer options available.
- Low-emissivity materials like metals and polished surfaces require a pyrometer with emissivity compensation.
- High-emissivity materials like ceramics, rubber, and painted surfaces are easier to measure in comparison, but adjustable emissivity settings still help with them.
Ensuring Compliance with Industry Standards
Complying with international safety and quality standards in industrial settings is essential.
The required certifications for a pyrometer include:
- ISO 9001: To show quality management.
- CE Certification: To show compliance with European safety standards.
- ATEX Certification: To show that the instrument is safe for use in an explosive environment.
- NIST Traceability: To show that the readings are accurate and reliable through calibration with national standards.
Conclusion
The right pyrometer for your industrial use case should be selected after carefully considering several factors, such as wavelength, temperature range, optical resolution, emissivity, adjustments, and compliance with industry standards. Go over your requirements to choose the most suitable industrial pyrometer for accurate temperature requirements and increased safety and productivity in your industrial work.
