Infrared thermometers, also known as IR thermometers, are widely used to measure the temperature of objects and surfaces. These devices are known for their speed, accuracy, and convenience, but it is important to periodically verify the accuracy of your IR thermometer to ensure that it is providing reliable temperature readings. In this blog post, we will discuss how to verify the accuracy of your IR thermometer using an ice bath and the IR thermometer calibration procedure.
Why Calibrate Your IR Thermometer?
Calibrating your IR thermometer is important to ensure that you are getting accurate temperature readings. IR thermometers use a lens to focus the infrared energy emitted by an object onto a temperature sensor. Over time, the lens may become dirty, scratched, or damaged, which can affect the accuracy of the temperature readings. In addition, the temperature sensor may drift due to changes in ambient temperature or humidity, which can also impact the accuracy of the readings.
By regularly calibrating your IR thermometer, you can ensure that it is providing accurate temperature readings. This is particularly important for applications that require precise temperature measurements, such as cooking, HVAC, and industrial processes.
The Ice Bath Calibration Procedure
The ice bath calibration procedure is a simple and effective way to verify the accuracy of your IR thermometer. Here are the steps to follow:
Fill a container with ice and water. Stir the water until it reaches a homogeneous temperature, which is typically close to 32°F (0°C).
Immerse the temperature sensor of your IR thermometer into the ice bath, making sure that it is fully submerged.
Turn on your IR thermometer and aim it at the surface of the ice bath.
Take a temperature reading and compare it to the known temperature of the ice bath, which is 32°F (0°C).
If the reading is different from the known temperature, adjust the calibration of your IR thermometer to match the ice bath temperature. This can usually be done using the menu settings on the device.
Repeat the process a few times to ensure that the IR thermometer is providing accurate and consistent temperature readings.
Tips for Accurate Ice Bath Calibration
Here are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure accurate ice bath calibration:
Use a large enough container of ice and water to ensure that the temperature of the ice bath is homogeneous.
Stir the water in the ice bath to help it reach a homogeneous temperature.
Immerse the temperature sensor of your IR thermometer fully into the ice bath to ensure that it is getting a representative temperature reading.
Avoid touching the lens of your IR thermometer during the calibration procedure, as this can affect the accuracy of the temperature readings.
Repeat the calibration procedure a few times to ensure that the IR thermometer is providing accurate and consistent temperature readings.
Conclusion
Verifying the accuracy of your IR thermometer using an ice bath is a simple and effective way to ensure that it is providing reliable temperature readings. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can ensure that your IR thermometer is providing accurate temperature readings for all your applications. Don’t forget to calibrate your IR thermometer regularly to ensure that it is providing accurate temperature readings over time.
Call us to discuss your calibration and repair needs at:
713.944.3139.
