IR Thermometers

Infrared (IR) thermometers measure surface temperature without physical contact by detecting emitted infrared radiation from a target. An optical system focuses the IR energy onto a detector, which calculates temperature based on the emissivity of the surface. IR thermometers range from basic spot models to advanced dual-laser instruments with high distance-to-spot (D:S) ratios, enabling precise measurements on small or hard-to-reach targets from a safe distance. Thermal cameras and building inspection systems extend this capability to full two-dimensional thermal imaging of equipment and structures.

Key specifications include temperature range, D:S ratio, emissivity adjustment capability, and response time. High-end models such as the Fluke 572-2 offer ranges up to 1000°C with adjustable emissivity and dual laser targeting, suitable for demanding industrial environments. Black body calibration sources from manufacturers such as Isotech and Wahl Instruments provide traceable reference temperatures for verifying IR thermometer accuracy to ASTM E1965 and similar standards.

Typical Applications

Electrical panel and switchgear inspection for hot spots indicating loose connections or overloaded circuits
Predictive maintenance of motors, bearings, and rotating machinery in manufacturing plants
HVAC and building envelope inspection for insulation defects, thermal bridging, and air leaks
Refractory and furnace temperature monitoring in metal processing and glass manufacturing
Calibration and verification of IR thermometers using black body radiation sources

Popular Brands

Fluke offers the widely used 570-series high-performance IR thermometers for electrical and industrial inspections. Teledyne FLIR provides infrared cameras and multi-sensor building inspection systems combining IR with moisture and other measurement technologies. Isotech and Wahl Instruments supply black body calibration sources used to verify and calibrate IR measuring instruments.