Measuring surface temperature correctly is a must in industrial production. The following explains what it is, the thermometers that measure it and why temperature labels are of great help to obtain a correct and reliable reading at an affordable price.
Measuring surface temperature
Surface temperature refers to the temperature on the external surface of a product, machinery, radiator or industrial installation. For many reasons, this temperature may differ from the temperature of the machine or the product itself.
In sectors such as construction, energy or industry, knowing the surface temperature poses a common problem for various reasons. This type of measurement is needed, for example, in production quality control and maintenance checks on radiators or machinery in general.
The problem when it comes to measuring surface temperature is basically that the device has to be in contact with the surface at issue. This calls for a thermometer or probe that can either adhere to the surface or measure the temperature through a single contact point. Sometimes, because of the high heat, we cannot get close to measure the temperature. In these specific applications, we need suitable devices.
Types of surface thermometer
There are different solutions to perform surface temperature measurements. From probe-based products that work at a certain distance to infrared thermometers or sensors adhered to the surface in question.
Usually, they are somewhat sophisticated products that perform this task. An affordable and user-friendly alternative is to use temperature labels. These adhesive thermometers only need to be adhered to the surface to measure its temperature.
Let’s take a look at the most common types:
Probe thermometer
It consists of a reader with a display and a control panel. A fixed probe is connected to it. This probe comes into contact with the surface whose temperature is to be measured. It can also be connected to be used only at specific times. The probes are of different shapes so that they can adapt more easily to any surface.
Thermometer connected to a mobile phone
The measuring device is placed on the surface and connected to the phone via Bluetooth or Wi-fi. An application installed on the phone allows storing the data for the different measurements, comparing the data and creating a graph where we can check the evolution of the temperature, among other options.
Infrared thermometers
Using these thermometers, we can measure surface temperature at a certain distance. Through infrared beams, they measure the thermal radiation on the surface and thus determine the temperature of the object.
Adhesive temperature labels
They offer the advantage of being an easy-to-use, cost-effective solution. Simply stick them onto the surface and they will indicate the exact temperature of the surface by changing colour. This type of temperature sensors can be irreversible, that is to say, that they permanently change colour. This comes in handy to check the temperatures that have been reached on the surface in question.
Some examples of surface temperature labels are:
Why are temperature labels highly-recommended?
Although the above thermometers always provide accurate readings, sometimes we may have problems reading the temperature due to poor probe contact or measuring from an excessive distance.
Since they adhere to the surface, adhesive thermometers read the temperature perfectly. Furthermore, as they are irreversible, they can remain adhered for some time and the temperatures reached on the surface can be checked later on.
In these cases, relying on a temperature label is always advisable. Simply stick the label onto the corresponding surface and check the temperature. It is worth mentioning that this solution can read temperatures within a wide range. Therefore, it is unquestionably useful in factories, construction companies or the like.
Similarly, its resistance to water and oil is another of its most outstanding characteristics. It is also a maintenance-free option that is visually appealing and easy for anyone to use.
In small companies that are engaged in the manufacture of a specific type of product, it is a trustworthy resource with a perfect value for money. We can also control the production process, avoid accidents and have the certainty of an accurate reading so that everything can be corrected as needed, and the final product is as expected.
The surface temperature is an essential factor in industrial production. Its measurement must be carried out using the most appropriate means for each particular case. Thermometers or temperature labels are always alternatives to consider in order to guarantee the success of all industrial processes.