Can infrared sensors detect and measure glass?

The TW7000 is capable of detecting hot glass objects, while the TW2000 can be used to measure the temperature of glass objects. TW7001 and TW7011 can detect hot objects through sight glasses. TW2001, TW2002 and TW2011 can measure the temperature of objects through sight glasses.

Which TW is suitable for metal applications?

TW2001, TW2002, TW2011, TW2101, TW7001 and TW7011 sensors (wavelength range 0.78...1.7 µm) are suitable for hot metals, graphite and ceramics. These wavelengths enable temperature measurement in the range from 250...2,500 °C.

Should screened cables be used?

Yes. Due to the very low voltages at the measuring element, EMC can become an issue, and screened cables should therefore be used.

Are calibration services offered for the infrared sensors?

Yes, initial calibration and recalibration services are available for the infrared sensors. Calibration of temperature sensors

An emissivity value is specified for the sensors – what does this mean?

Emissivity describes how efficiently an object emits thermal radiation compared with an ideal black body (emissivity = 1). An object with an emissivity of 1 emits the maximum possible radiant energy at a given temperature. Real materials have an emissivity of less than 1, which can vary depending on the surface finish, material properties and temperature. Smooth, reflective surfaces such as polished metals typically have a low emissivity, whereas matt, dark surfaces generally exhibit high emissivity values. Emissivity table

What material is the lens made of?

The lenses of the short-wave devices are made of hardened optical glass. In contrast, the lenses of the long-wave devices consist of multiple layers of semiconductor material.

Are there any considerations for use in hygienic applications?

To prevent potential contamination caused by a broken lens, we recommend installing the sensor at an angle so that it is not positioned directly above the food processing area. For most non-metallic materials, angles of approximately 40–45° are permissible.

ifm temperature sensors
Infrared temperature sensors

Infrared temperature sensors

Non-contact measurement in demanding environments

Infrared temperature sensors of the TW family are the ideal choice wherever inline sensors reach their limits at extreme temperatures. They measure the infrared radiation emitted by an object without contact and convert it into precise temperature values.

Their strengths lie in the combination of high temperature resolution, short response times from as fast as 2 ms and a wide measuring range from -30 up to 2,500 °C. Robust, scratch-resistant precision optics as well as combined analogue and digital signal processing ensure stable, drift-free results even under harsh environmental conditions.

Infrared sensors enable temperature measurement on moving, difficult-to-access or extremely hot objects across a wide range of industrial applications, including glass, metal and ceramic processing.

Infrared sensors in detail

Product benefits of infrared temperature sensors

Non-contact measuring principle

While the electronics of inline sensors can be damaged at extreme temperatures, infrared sensors reliably measure temperatures of up to 2,500 °C using a non-contact measuring principle. Infrared sensors are also the ideal choice for applications where contact-based measurement is not desired.

Safe and wear-free

The distance between the object and the sensor enables reliable measurement of difficult-to-access or hazardous objects. It also contributes to a long service life and prevents drift effects, as the sensor does not come into direct contact with high temperatures. Another advantage is improved safety for personnel, since parameter setting, maintenance and replacement can be carried out from a safe distance.

Wide range of applications

Within a temperature range from -30 to 2,500 °C, the infrared sensors reliably measure the temperature or position of objects. The wide measuring range enables use across a variety of applications, including the production of asphalt, coated metal and ceramics.

Individually adjustable

TW sensors can be adjusted to different target materials via the emissivity, ensuring the highest possible measurement accuracy.

Product overview

Infrared sensors for temperature measurement

TW2 infrared sensors with analogue output measure the temperature of objects across a wide measuring range from -30 to 2,500 °C. Scratch-resistant precision lenses ensure minimal sensitivity to ambient light. An easy-to-read display simplifies handling. Some product versions also feature an LED pilot light for precise alignment with the target object.

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Infrared sensors for position detection

TW7 infrared sensors with switching output detect the presence or position of objects without contact and output the infrared radiation as a percentage. Scratch-resistant precision lenses ensure minimal sensitivity to ambient light. An easy-to-read display simplifies handling. A typical application is the detection of red-hot workpieces on conveyor lines.

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