Temperature measurement devices

Temperature sensors are being increasingly used in industry in a wide range of applications. From their use in the newspaper industry, where they are used to monitor the temperature of high speed electrical motors that work in close proximity to the temperature sensitive newsprint, to their use in chilled stores that need to be kept below a certain setpoint temperature level, it seems that many industries now rely on these temperature measuring devices.

Thermal imaging cameras

Thermal imaging cameras can provide accurate temperature measurement in a range of situations. The latest cameras have on-board memory, so images can be stored and downloaded to a computer after the image has been taken. Most cameras also use a laser pointer light, so accurate temperature readings at a specific location can be taken.

Thermal imaging cameras are especially useful to monitor temperature in electrical control panels or fuse boards. They can highlight specific ‘hot-spots’ where the electrical contact may not be properly made. Rectifying problem areas such as loose connections can stop future electrical failures. As well as finding loose connections, thermal imaging cameras can also locate areas such as overheating joints or terminals due to increased contact resistance and areas of unequal loading or overloading. With this information, repairs can be made or modifications to the design of the electrical system can be implemented.

With their uses seemingly endless, it’s no wonder there are now many different types of thermal imaging cameras available. The better ones take high resolution pictures in a similar way to standard digital cameras and can take temperature measurements anywhere from -35°C to +900°C.