Infrared Temperature Sensor [How it Works, Applications, Advantage and Usage Considerations]

IR infrared temperature sensors offer reliable non-contact temperature measurement solutions and are mainly used in industrial environments and in challenging and hazardous conditions to determine the temperature of the devices and systems. High temperatures are often the first danger sign for mechanical equipment, electrical circuits, and building systems. Constant monitoring of temperature changes in the main components and equipment can identify potential problem areas and prevent disastrous breakdowns. 

Infrared temperature sensors are actually ideal for use in situations that can not use conventional contact sensors to measure temperature. 

This sensor measures the infrared light emitted by objects, so unlike most temperature sensors, it can determine their temperature from a distance without any physical contact.

All objects emit a specific color and light at different temperatures, which can be used to measure the temperature of an object using this light or the same thermal power emitted from an object. 

In other words, the temperature of objects can be obtained based on the spectrum of light emitted from the object.

Because this sensor does not require contact with the object to measure its temperature, it can detect a larger temperature range than most digital sensors.

How Do Infrared Temperature Sensors Work?

Objects emit waves of different wavelengths depending on their temperature. Infrared temperature sensors receive these waves with different wavelengths and measure their temperature from a distance without contact with the target object. 

This sensor consists of a lens that concentrates an infrared (IR) energy beam to a detector. This detector converts energy into an electrical signal which is in proportion to the infrared energy emitted by the object and the electrical signal can be displayed in units of temperature after compensating for changes in ambient temperature.

Infrared signals are transmitted to the sensor through a window made from specific plastic. While plastic does not normally allow infrared frequencies to pass, the sensors use a form that is clear for certain frequencies. 

It filters unwanted frequencies and protects the electronic appliances inside the sensor against dust, dirt, and other external objects.

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Applications of Infrared Temperature Sensors

infrared temperature sensors are mostly used in factories and industries to measure continuous temperature as well as to measure high temperatures. 

These sensors provide accurate and reliable temperature detection From the low temperatures in cooling chains or laboratories to the highest temperature in hot melt metals and long furnaces. Usually, the temperature range of these sensors is -50 ° C to 3500 ° C.

These sensors are a highly efficient solution for industrial, benchtop, laboratory, Meteorology, Astronomy, medical and educational applications. 

They can be used in circumstances where the target object is moving or is surrounded by an EM field, as in induction heating; in applications where the object is contained in a vacuum or other controlled atmosphere; where a fast response is required and distances are too great.

Advantages

• Contactless measurement so no wear and friction
• High sensitivity
• High reliability and durability
• Simple circuit
• Low power consumption
• High speed
• Very reasonable price
• Easy installation

What should be considered about the application when selecting an infrared temperature sensor?

There are different temperature ranges and mounting, sensor types, target size and distance, type of surface being measured, and outputs that are important to consider when choosing the appropriate infrared temperature sensor for your application.

Response time, environment, mounting limitations, viewing port or window applications, and desired signal processing are other considerations that should be taken into account. 

Tap here to get more information about temperature sensor:

How to Choose a Temperature Sensor?

Everything About Temperature (Units and Unit Conversion)

What is a Temperature Sensor? (Contact, Non Contact, Semiconductor Types)

Common Applications of Temperature Sensors