What To Know
- Moving the infrared thermometer further away from the object being measured can increase the area of the surface being measured and potentially lead to a higher reading.
- Applying a heat source, such as a hair dryer or heat gun, to the object being measured can temporarily raise the surface temperature and produce a higher reading.
- By adjusting the emissivity setting, compensating for ambient temperature, using a reflective surface, increasing the distance, applying a heat source, using a black body, and calibrating the thermometer, you can obtain more accurate and higher readings.
Infrared thermometers are widely used in various settings, including healthcare, industrial, and home environments. However, there may be situations where you need to make the infrared thermometer read higher. This can be due to various reasons, such as compensating for a low ambient temperature or obtaining a more accurate reading in specific applications.
Understanding Infrared Thermometers
Infrared thermometers measure the surface temperature of objects by detecting the infrared radiation emitted by them. The measured temperature is displayed on a digital display. Infrared thermometers are non-contact devices, which means they do not require physical contact with the object being measured.
Factors Affecting Infrared Thermometer Readings
Several factors can affect the accuracy of infrared thermometer readings, including:
- Emissivity: Different materials have different emissivities, which is the ability to emit infrared radiation. The emissivity of the object being measured should be considered when using an infrared thermometer.
- Distance: The distance between the infrared thermometer and the object being measured can affect the accuracy of the reading. Maintaining a consistent distance is crucial.
- Ambient Temperature: The ambient temperature can influence the reading. Compensation for ambient temperature may be necessary in certain situations.
Methods to Make Infrared Thermometer Read Higher
1. Adjust the Emissivity Setting
Many infrared thermometers allow you to adjust the emissivity setting. The emissivity value for the object being measured can be found in the manufacturer’s specifications or online resources. Setting the correct emissivity ensures accurate readings.
2. Compensate for Ambient Temperature
In cold ambient temperatures, the infrared thermometer reading may be lower than the actual temperature. To compensate for this, use a calibration tool or consult the manufacturer’s instructions to adjust the temperature offset.
3. Use a Reflective Surface
Placing a reflective surface behind the object being measured can increase the amount of infrared radiation emitted, resulting in a higher reading. However, this method may not be suitable for all applications.
4. Increase the Distance
Moving the infrared thermometer further away from the object being measured can increase the area of the surface being measured and potentially lead to a higher reading. However, maintaining a consistent distance is still important for accuracy.
5. Use a Heat Source
Applying a heat source, such as a hair dryer or heat gun, to the object being measured can temporarily raise the surface temperature and produce a higher reading. This method should be used with caution to avoid damaging the object.
6. Use a Black Body
A black body is an object that absorbs all incident radiation and emits it as blackbody radiation. Placing a black body next to the object being measured can increase the ambient temperature and result in a higher reading.
7. Calibrate the Infrared Thermometer
Regular calibration is essential to ensure the accuracy of infrared thermometers. Calibration involves comparing the thermometer’s readings to a known temperature source and adjusting it accordingly.
Other Considerations
- Use a High-Quality Infrared Thermometer: Invest in a high-quality infrared thermometer with accurate readings and adjustable settings.
- Clean the Lens: A dirty lens can interfere with infrared radiation detection, leading to inaccurate readings. Clean the lens regularly with a soft cloth.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Direct sunlight can interfere with infrared radiation detection. Avoid using infrared thermometers in direct sunlight for accurate readings.
Wrapping Up
Making an infrared thermometer read higher requires understanding the factors affecting the accuracy of the readings and employing appropriate methods. By adjusting the emissivity setting, compensating for ambient temperature, using a reflective surface, increasing the distance, applying a heat source, using a black body, and calibrating the thermometer, you can obtain more accurate and higher readings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is my infrared thermometer reading lower than the actual temperature?
A: Factors such as low ambient temperature, incorrect emissivity setting, or a dirty lens can contribute to lower readings.
Q: How do I adjust the emissivity setting on my infrared thermometer?
A: Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific steps on adjusting the emissivity setting.
Q: Can I use any object as a reflective surface?
A: Reflective surfaces should be made of materials with high emissivity, such as aluminum foil or black electrical tape.
