Visual IR Thermometer
Menu Functions
Temperature Measurement
All objects radiate infrared energy. The quantity of energy radiated is based on the actual surface temperature and the surface emissivity of the object. The Product senses the infrared energy from the surface of the object and uses this data to calculate an estimated temperature value. Many common objects and materials such as painted metal, wood, water, skin, and cloth are very good at radiating energy and it is easy to get relatively accurate measurements. For surfaces that are good at radiating energy (high emissivity), the emissivity factor is ≥90 % (0.90). This simplification does not work on shiny surfaces or unpainted metals as they have an emissivity of <60 % (0.60). These materials are not good at radiating energy and are classified as low emissivity. To more accurately measure materials with a low emissivity, an emissivity correction is necessary. Adjustment to the emissivity value will usually allow the Product to calculate a more accurate estimate of the actual temperature.
Note
Surfaces with an emissivity <0.60 make reliable and consistent determination of actual temperatures problematic. The lower the emissivity, the more potential error is associated with the temperature measurement calculations of the Product, even when emissivity and reflected background adjustments are attempted and performed properly.
Warning
To prevent personal injury, see emissivity information for actual temperatures. Reflective objects result in lower than actual temperature measurements. These objects pose a burn hazard.
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