A fiber optic infrared probe is one way to make non-contact high temperature measurements in industrial applications. With a lens probe assembly aimed at the object to be measured, and a fiber optic interconnecting cable connected to an electronics package, a transmitter makes temperature measurements and converts them into a usable output signal.
A new infrared transmitter, the OS4000, includes an optical field of view or spot size as small as 0.025 in., which is less than half the size typically available, and a response time as fast as 1 msec, an order of magnitude faster than similar devices. The unit is CE compliant and is manufactured in the USA.
Because infrared probes are often placed within a few inches of the measured object, their construction assembly can vary dramatically. Special probes may have threaded housings, be constructed of special materials such as ceramics, and even have non-glass lenses or glass or quartz optical rod (tips).
The fiber optic cable acts as a waveguide to bring the radiation to the infrared detector assembly in the electronics package. The quality of the fiber optic interfaces at each end is critical to overall system accuracy and repeatability.
The electronic package does the work of converting the infrared radiation delivered by the fiber optic cable into a temperature reading or a signal proportional to the temperature. The electronic package may include many enhancements such as high and low temperature alarms, various output options, and even a computer interface connection.
The OS4000 High Speed Industrial Fiber Optic Infrared Transmitter is versatile with many options and configuration choices. It covers a temperature range of 100 to 1600°C with sampling rates ranging from 1 msec up to 3.2 seconds. The unit also offers peak and hold function with an adjustable holding time. The optical field of view ranges from 0.22 in. to 0.025 in.; the smallest spot size available on a standard product. A custom version can go as low as 0.010 in. spot size.
Omega Engineering
www.omega.com
Filed Under: SENSORS, TEST & MEASUREMENT
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