How to Calibrate Infrared Thermometers

How Do Infrared Thermometers Work?

Infrared thermometers work by detecting infrared radiation coming from an object and then converting it into a temperature reading. Objects radiate infrared radiation proportionally to their temperature. This is what the IR thermometer measures to give a temperature value.

The working procedure:

1. Infrared Detection: the surface of the object emits radiation, which is detected by the sensor on the thermometer;
2. Conversion: A detector in the infrared thermometer converts radiation into an electric signal;
3. Temperature Calculation: the processor in the thermometer then converts the electric signal into a reading depending on the amount of energy detected.

Importance of Infrared Thermometer Calibration

Calibration is vital because the results produced by the infrared thermometer need to be highly accurate and reliable. However, the thermometer can show wrong temperature readings due to dust and debris on the lens, changes in atmospheric conditions, or wearing out of internal parts.

Reasons for doing proper calibration

• Accuracy assurance: well-calibrated infrared thermometers give accurate readings, thus reducing any chances of error.
• Compliance with standards: Industries related to food safety, healthcare, and manufacturing have quality and safety standards that need to be met and hence require periodic calibrations.
• Downtime prevention: Routine calibration helps in the detection and identification of potential risks early that could alter the operation of the thermometer.

How to Calibrate Infrared Thermometers

There are several ways to calibrate infrared thermometers. All of these methods are dependent on each of the tools and the amount of accuracy being sought. The following are the most common methods used in the calibration of thermometers:

Ice Water Method

This method involves taking ice water as a reference against which to check whether your infrared thermometer returns proper readings at 32° Fahrenheit or 0° C.

Steps:

1. Fill a container with ice;
2. To the container with ice, add water until all the ice is covered;
3. Leave it to settle for some time;
4. Stir up the mixture to have a uniform temperature maintained;
5. Make sure your infrared thermometer is set to an emissivity setting of 0.98;
6. Aim the infrared thermometer at the surface of the ice water apparatus without letting the thermometer touch the water and take a reading.

The reading should be 32°F 0°C. If not, the calibration of the thermometer needs to be corrected.

Boiling Water Method

Similar to the ice water technique, this method uses the boiling point of water as a reference at 212°F or 100°C.

Steps:

1. Heat some water in a container until it hits its full boiling point.
2. Aim the infrared thermometer at the surface of the boiling water while avoiding steam interfacing the head from the thermometer.
3. The thermometer should read 212°F or 100°C; otherwise, calibration should be done.

These procedures are based on a few assumptions. The assumptions are normal atmospheric pressure and sea level due to changes in boiling points that are a result of changes in altitude.

Blackbody Calibration

A more accurate calibration could be performed with the use of a blackbody calibrator. Using a blackbody calibrator is a standard practice in laboratories, manufacturing, and research settings to ensure the accuracy and reliability of infrared thermometers. It emits infrared radiation at known temperatures, thus offering a well-known reference to base the calibration on.

Steps:

• Set the blackbody calibrator to a known temperature, such as 50°C and 100°C.
• Aim the infrared thermometer at the calibrator and take a reading.
•  Refer back to the temperature you set on the calibrator. Compare this temperature with the reading of the thermometer. Adjust the settings on the infrared thermometer accordingly to provide the correct reading.

This technique is very accurate; thus, it finds its application in highly sensitive industries that require critical control of temperatures, such as laboratories and manufacturing.

Surface Probe Method

Another technique is utilizing a calibrated surface probe and taking the reading parallel to the infrared thermometer.

Steps:

• Heat or cool a surface to a known, constant temperature.
• Point at the same surface where the exact temperature of that surface is measured by a surface probe, and simultaneously compare its reading with the infrared thermometer.
• In case there is a different reading, make adjustments to the infrared thermometer.

Troubleshooting Common Calibration Problems

There are other causes of calibration issues. Some general issues and troubleshooting methods include the following:

Variable Readings: The reading is changing while you try to calibrate it. Clean the lenses of your thermometer from fingerprints and dust. Filthy lenses will give false readings. These are ambient reasons such as temperature changes in the surroundings brought about by drafts, heat sources, or cold air. Calibration is best carried out in a controlled environment.

Incorrect Distance: During the time of calibration, you should not be too close or too far away from the object, as this prevents the thermometer from picking the correct infrared radiation. These are guidelines concerning the distance-to-spot ratio issued by the manufacturer.

How can you ensure that your infrared thermometer is always right? The following are some things to do to keep your infrared thermometer accurate.

• Cleaning: Remove dust and fingerprints that may block the path of the sensor by wiping with a soft dry cloth regularly.
• Controlled Environments: Keep your thermometer away from extreme temperatures, humidity, and shock, as they may impact the thermometer’s accuracy with time.
• Recalibration Schedule: The thermometer should be recalibrated based on the recommendation of the manufacturer. This should be done annually.
• Use Calibration Certificates: This is a must for the manufacturing company if your thermometer is for either professional or regulatory use so that it guarantees the standard of the industry in terms of precision.

ThermoPro TP450 Dual Laser Infrared Thermometer for Cooking

ThermoPro TP450 Dual Laser Infrared Thermometer for Cooking is a must-have kitchen tool for any culinary enthusiast or professional chef. This advanced infrared thermometer combines precision and convenience, allowing you to measure surface temperatures quickly and accurately without direct contact. Featuring dual laser technology, the TP450 provides a clearer visual of the measurement area, ensuring you target exactly what you intend to measure, whether it’s a sizzling skillet, a roasting turkey, or a delicate chocolate sauce.

With a temperature range of -58°F to 1112°F (-50°C to 600°C), the TP450 is versatile enough to handle various cooking tasks, from grilling and frying to baking and candy making. Its ergonomic design and easy-to-read LCD display make it user-friendly, while the adjustable emissivity setting allows for greater accuracy across different surfaces. Plus, with features like a backlit screen and automatic shut-off, the TP450 enhances both safety and usability in the kitchen.P