Metrology Glossary: Infrared Thermometer (IR Thermometer)
What Is An Infrared Thermometer?
An infrared thermometer, commonly known as an IR thermometer, is a valuable tool for contactless temperature measurement. Its primary function is to determine an object’s temperature by capturing the infrared radiation it emits. Infrared radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation beyond the visible spectrum, but can be detected through electronic sensors. These thermometers operate by concentrating the infrared radiation emitted by the object onto a sensor, which transforms it into an electrical signal. The thermometer processes this signal to compute the object’s temperature.
What Are Infrared Thermometers Used For?
- Industrial: Supervising machinery and equipment for signs of overheating, pinpointing faulty components, and executing proactive maintenance measures.
- Automotive: Diagnosing engine issues, assessing tire pressure, and detecting electrical abnormalities using accurate infrared temperature readings.
- Construction: Examining insulation for potential leaks, swiftly identifying moisture infiltration, and closely monitoring the progress of drying processes.
- Medical: Precisely gauging body temperature to identify fever symptoms, continuously monitoring the temperature of newborns, and acquiring non-intrusive temperature measurements.
- Food Safety: Verifying food temperatures during both cooking and storage, ensuring adherence to hygiene standards, and mitigating the risk of foodborne illnesses.
- Environmental: Recording precise air and water temperatures, overseeing pollution levels, and investigating thermal characteristics of various materials.

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