Are Laser Thermometers Accurate?

This article answers this question and details how to ensure your laser thermometer’s accuracy. In doing so, our team provides examples of laser thermometers, along with their specified accuracy.

What Do Laser Thermometers Measure?

A laser thermometer is a tool that’s perfect for rapidly measuring the surface temperature of an object without touching its surface.

Please note that laser thermometers only measure the surface temperature of an object – they DO NOT measure the internal temperature. So, when discussing the accuracy of infrared thermometers, we refer only to their ability to measure surface temperatures.

Defining Laser Thermometers Accuracy

Accuracy is the degree to which the result of a measurement conforms to the correct value or a standard.

An inaccurate laser thermometer could have unfavourable consequences - like a ruined meal, a botched experiment, or inferior manufactured goods. Moreover, an inaccurate laser thermometer defeats the purpose of owning one in the first place!

How to Ensure Your Laser Thermometer’s Accuracy

1. Purchasing: Factor a laser thermometer’s listed accuracy into your purchasing decision process. It’s easy to find this because thermometers include listed accuracy in their specifications. Note: Higher accuracy usually means higher cost. The secret is to balance your acceptable level of accuracy with affordability. If you need help with this, feel free to speak to an Instrument Choice Scientist.
   
2. Specific Use: You should know that not all IR thermometers are suitable for all tasks. Consider the distinction between human-use and industrial-use thermometers. For measuring human-related temperatures, consider only infrared thermometers designedfor the purpose.
   
3. Required Maintenance: Maintenance is essential to ensure laser thermometer reliability. When evaluating products, consider this factor only after deciding your required accuracy and application(s). Basic maintenance includes keeping your thermometer’s lens clean and, when not in use, storing it in a pouch or case, so the lens does not become scratched.
   
4. Emissivity: If you need to measure shiny or reflective objects, you need an infrared surface thermometer with adjustable emissivity for reliable results. 

Examples of Laser Thermometers and their Accuracy

Industrial Testo 810 2in1 IR thermometer Product code: IC-0560-0810 The Testo 810 combines an infrared and NTC sensor thermometer in one instrument. This device is exceptional for use around heating, ventilation, and air conditioning technology.  A simple button push will measure a radiator, air vent or window’s surface temperature and compare your results to the ambient temperature.   Accuracy: ±2.0 °C (-30 to +100 °C) ±2% of mv (remaining range) Adjustable Emissivity: Yes - Adjustable 0.2 to 0.99 Range: -30 to +300 °C

Industrial Testo 830-T2, 2 Laser Point InfraRed (IR) Thermometer Product code: IC-0560-8312   The Testo 830 performs rapid and accurate surface temperature measurements. It’s ideal for HVAC, trade, manufacturing, and various industrial applications. An outstanding feature of this laser thermometer is the audible and visual alarms that instantly alert you when measured temperatures fall outside your pre-set range.   Accuracy: ±1.5°C or 1.5% of reading (+0.1 to +400°C) ±2°C or 2% of reading (-30 to 0°C) Adjustable Emissivity: Yes - 0.1 to 1.0 adjustable Range: -30 to +400°C

Industrial FLUKE 62 MAX IR Thermometer Product code: FLUKE-62-MAX The Fluke 62 Max infrared thermometer is the ultimate industrial all-rounder. It’s IP54 rated,  designed and guaranteed to survive a 3-metre drop. Count on this lightweight, compact device to work splendidly in the harshest environments.  Instrument Choice recommends the Fluke 62 Max for applications in heavy industrial, electrical, HVAC, and mechanical environments.   Accuracy: ≥0 °C: ±1.5 °C or ±1.5 % of reading, whichever is greater ≥ -10 °C to <0°C: ±2°C < -10 °C: ±3 °C Adjustable Emissivity: Yes from 0.10 to 1.00 Range: -30 °C to 500 °C

Human-Use Non-Contact Forehead Infrared Thermometer Product code: IC-15007 The IC-15007 Non-Contact Forehead Infrared Thermometer accurately measures body temperature and sets off a high fever alarm if the measured temperature is more than 38°C.   Accuracy: ±0.3°C (32 to 34.9°C) ±0.2°C  (35 to 42°C) ±0.3°C (42.1 to 43°C) Adjustable Emissivity: No Range: Body mode: 32°C to 43°C Surface mode: 0°C to 60°C Room mode: 0°C to 40°C

Conclusion: Are Laser Thermometers Accurate?

Laser thermometers are easy to use tools that accurately measure the surface temperature of an object. The accuracy of a laser thermometer’s measurement depends on your intended use, each device’s listed specifications, the way you maintain your device and the type of objects you wish to measure.

Need more information on laser thermometer accuracy? Speak with an Instrument Choice Scientist: Call 1300 737 871 or email [email protected].