Specifications of a Total Radiation Pyrometer

How It Works

• The pyrometer uses radiation to measure the heat from any particular object by measuring the radiating waves between the object and its sensor. Items measured for heat can be anywhere within the pyrometer range of view or within the machines scope. Total radiation measures both visible and non-visible radiating waves so that the full scope of the temperature and heat can be determined. While there are several types of pyrometers, one of the most common uses mirrors in combination with a vacuum thermocouple to take in and measure the heat radiation.

Advantages

• Total radiation pyrometer can be used to determine the temperature and heat level in a vast array of areas. Traditional heat and temperature sensors are often limited to use in safe locations or places without corrosives, radiation or similar elements that could cause them to break down or produce an improper result. The total radiation pyrometer can be used from a distance so that it can be used safely and does not take system damage.

Disadvantages

• The single worst disadvantage of a total radiation pyrometer is the price. Pyrometers are expensive to build and purchase as well as requiring hefty installation and maintenance bills. This price limits pyrometers to use by large companies and government corporations. Other disadvantages include that all pyrometers will not measure the same objects, for example, the more complicated the device being measured for heat, the more complicated the pyrometer must be. If debris such as dust, smoke or even gas has penetrated into the sighting chamber of the pyrometer, it will affect the reading and cause it to be false, or in some cases cause the machine to not give a reading.

Maintenance

• Pyrometers, like other machines, require routine maintenance to ensure they are working correctly and safely. Generally a pyrometer does not require a great deal of maintenance due to sturdy construction, however; it occasionally becomes necessary to remove dust and debris from sensors as well as to clear the sighting path and clean the optical (sighting) elements.