Thermometer

A thermometer is a device used for measuring temperature. It has two important parts – a temperature sensor and some means of converting the data into a numerical value. One of the oldest types is the typical mercury thermometer – its use has, however, declined for they can be dangerous if the mercury leaks. Some other types include for example infrared thermometer.

Thermometers are used in many industries, for example to monitor processes, in meteorology, in medicine, technology, or in scientific research. You can choose from contact or contact-free thermometers, each of them being more suitable for a different type of measurements. There are many various types of thermometers. Digital thermometers, for example, have a heat sensor which measures the temperature but need physical contact with the area to deliver accurate measurements. They are very often used in medicine for measuring the patient´s body temperature in the armpit, rectum, ear, or mouth, but are being replaced by the contact-less thermometers, which are becoming more and more popular because there is no risk of infection. These are usually forehead thermometers. They resemble gun and use infrared sensors.

In technology, however, the most popular types of thermometers are for example infrared thermometer, dual laser thermometer, thermal anemometer, video thermometer or imaging thermometer.

Infrared thermometer

This type of thermometer is very useful in cases when you cannot – for whatever reason – get close to the object you are measuring or the object is very fragile – they are contact-less, so there is no need to access the object itself and you can perform the measurement even from certain distance. Infrared thermometer uses the infrared radiation to measure the surface heat or coldness. The distance from which infrared thermometer can measure the surface depends on the specific product – so before purchasing, make sure the product´s specifications suit your exact needs. These devices are often used where other types of thermometers are not practical.

If you are looking for a professional infrared thermometer, you should certainly take a look at this product: Bosch Professional GIS 1000 C - Infrared-Thermometer – Measuritec.

Dual laser infrared thermometer

Works on the same principles as regular infrared thermometer with the exception that it uses two lasers to target the measured object, which allows for much more accuracy. It is easier to spot the object or surface you want to measure. Also, the distance between the two laser spots on the surface of the object gives an approximation of the measured area from which the sensor is collecting data.

If you are interested in dual laser infrared thermometers, take a look at this product: Extech 42570 - Dual Laser Infrared Thermometer – Measuritec

Thermal anemometer or hot-wire anemometer

This type of thermometers is used for measuring the air velocity, air temperature and air flow (in other words, the temperature, speed, and direction of air). Some models, like this one Extech SDL300 - Data Acquisition Weather Vane Thermoanemometer – Measuritec, also have an internal memory or SD card to store the data for later usage. Thermal anemometer is a great tool for taking fast and constant measurements. Most of the currently used thermal anemometers are hot-wire anemometers (a sub-type of thermal anemometer). These use an electrically heated fine wire which is cooled down by the flowing air. This way it can measure its´s temperature. Check out this thermometer Extech 407123 - Hot Wire Thermo Anemometer – Measuritec or a more expensive model with extra functions here Extech SDL350 - Hot Wire Thermal Anemometer – Measuritec.

Video infrared thermometer

They use the very same technology as infrared thermometers, but they have a display to show graphs and curves which mediate the acquired data. So instead of only showing the number or value of the acquired data, you can see the data progression, etc. For example, this type Extech VIR50 - Dual Laser IR Video Thermometer – Measuritec features both LCD display and dual laser for more accurate data acquisition, it is therefore a very good tool for any advanced or professional user.

Imaging thermometer

Imaging thermometers are a brand-new class of tools which should find compromise between infrared thermometers and thermal imaging cameras. It therefore combines the functions of these two devices. Thermal imaging cameras are used to record temperature for each sensor pixel, while the infrared thermometers only measure the temperature of the single point covered by the laser. If you are interested in these new hybrid tools, check out this premium quality thermal imaging thermometer by FLIR: FLIR TG167 - IR Thermal Imaging Thermometer – Measuritec.

Before you choose which thermometer to buy, make sure it suits your needs and the specifications are appropriate for you. Each of the devices is a very useful tool for a specific set of actions and for each purpose you are going to need a different product to boost your efficiency.