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My meter seems to provide readings that are too high or to low when measuring metal surfaces. Why?

April 26, 2017high low measuring metal meter readings surfaces

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My meter seems to provide readings that are too high or to low when measuring metal surfaces. Why?

1 Answer

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IR Thermometers measure the surface temperature of an object. The thermometers optics sense emitted, reflected, and transmitted energy. The thermometers electronics translate the information into a temperature reading which is then displayed on the LCD. The amount of IR energy emitted by an object is proportional to an object’s temperature and its ability to emit energy. This ability is known as emissivity and is based upon the material of the object and its surface finish. Emissivity values range from 0.1 for a very reflective object to 1.00 for a flat black finish. If an object’s surface is highly reflective, apply masking tape or flat black paint to the surface before measuring. Allow time for the paint or tape to adjust to the temperature of the surface it is covering.