What is an Infrared Thermometer? An radiation thermometer, also known as infrared laser thermometer or non-contact thermometer, is a device that measures body temperature from a safe distance without any physical contact. It works using infrared technology to sense the infrared energy emitted by the object and measure its surface temperature. Radiation thermometers point the device at the forehead to get an infrared reading of the body's temperature. How does an Infrared Thermometer Work? All objects above absolute zero emit a certain amount of infrared energy. The radiation thermometer senses this infrared radiation and uses it to calculate the temperature. Inside the Infrared Thermometer, there is an infrared sensor that detects the infrared light emitted by the skin surface. This sensor converts the infrared readings into electrical signals that a microprocessor inside interprets. The temperature is then digitally displayed on the screen of the thermometer. No direct contact is needed to take the temperature reading through this contactless method. Advantages of Infrared Technology Some key advantages of radiation thermometers include: - Safe and Hygienic: Since it does not require any physical contact, radiation thermometers help maintain hygiene and reduce the risk of disease transmission compared to traditional thermometers. This makes them perfect for mass screenings and situations like COVID-19 pandemic. - Fast Readings: Infrared technology allows getting an accurate temperature reading within 1-2 seconds from a distance of few centimeters. This makes the process quick and convenient. - Non-Invasive: Taking temperature through mouth or ears using traditional thermometers can be unpleasant at times, especially for kids. Radiation thermometers avoid any discomfort through a non-invasive contactless method. - Easy to Use: Most radiation thermometers come with an ergonomic design and simple one-button operation. Minimal training is required to use them effectively. - Mobility and Portability: Being compact and lightweight, radiation thermometers offer good mobility. This allows taking temperature anywhere, from homes and offices to public places. Accuracy and Limitations of Radiation thermometers While radiation thermometers provide instant contactless readings, their accuracy depends on various factors: - Emissivity: Materials have different abilities to emit infrared energy. The thermometer requires adjusting the emissivity setting to match the material for accurate readings. Skin emissivity is preset in most units. - Distance and Target Size: The target area of measurement must fall within the specified focal distance and size mentioned in product specifications. - Environmental Factors: Surrounding temperature, humidity, air currents etc. can impact the readings if not accounted for. Calibration is necessary in varying outdoor conditions. - Location: For human body temperature, the recommended site is inner canthus (tear duct) close to the eye or forehead region. Measurements from other areas may vary. Proper Use Tips for Radiation thermometers To ensure accurate and consistent infrared temperature readings, it's important to follow a few guidelines: - Clean and calibrate the thermometer periodically as per manufacturer's recommendations. - Allow sufficient time for the thermometer sensor to adjust to the ambient temperature before use. - Stand the recommended distance away as clearly marked on the unit. - Aim the thermometer at the center of the target area and avoid edges and hairlines. - Take readings from the same location, preferably inner canthus area for oral-free body temperature. - Keep the measurement environment still without any air drafts or ambient heat sources nearby. - Wait few seconds to register a stable reading and note it down. Repeat for verification if required. - Consult product manual for any specific pre-use preparations or post-use care instructions. Applications of Radiation thermometers With their ease of use and accuracy, radiation thermometers have found widespread applications in healthcare as well as various other industries: - Fever Screening: Widely used in healthcare facilities, airports, workplaces for mass screenings during pandemics and outbreak situations. - Child and Elder Care: To monitor body temperature of infants, young children and elderly without any discomfort. - Veterinary Care: For contactless temperature measurement of animals without any physical restrain. - Food Safety: Suitable for checking surface temperature of food, meat, appliances to ensure safe cooking and handling. - Industrial Processes: Used to monitor industrial equipment temperature for quality control and preventive maintenance. - Building Insulation: Helps inspect insulation gaps and air leakage issues through infrared temperature scans. - Scientific Research: Valuable research tool in life sciences, material analysis, combustion studies requiring non-contact temperature readings. 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Alice Mutum is a seasoned senior content editor at Coherent Market Insights, leveraging extensive expertise gained from her previous role as a content writer. With seven years in content development, Alice masterfully employs SEO best practices and cutting-edge digital marketing strategies to craft high-ranking, impactful content. As an editor, she meticulously ensures flawless grammar and punctuation, precise data accuracy, and perfect alignment with audience needs in every research report. Alice's dedication to excellence and her strategic approach to content make her an invaluable asset in the world of market insights.
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