Proper IR Gun Use

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wkpoor

Minister of Fire
Oct 30, 2008
1,854
Amanda, OH
I was reading on here again about how inaccurate the Rutland Temp gauges are. Many are comparing them to their IR guns. I personally have found all 3 of mine to be very accurate. So I experimented with my gun and realized it could be people are using the gun too far away from the surface they are measuring. As you move away the target area it sees gets larger and the temp is averaged over that area. I know on my own stove the temp can vary greatly over the whole surface. I have the Rutland located in the middle right over the where the secondary box beam is located and where the highest temps typically are. If I point my gun around the perimeter of the gauge within 6" of it I get readings identical to each other. Wen I move back the delta occurs.
 
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What I have noticed with the spring type thermometers is above 750 deg f they get less accurate, below that they are pretty close.
 
You are correct wkpoor. It does make a difference how far away you are from the heating surface.
 
OH.. I thought this thread was going to be about getting kittens to chase the lazer.. That's where at least 80% of our battery life goes..
 
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OH.. I thought this thread was going to be about getting kittens to chase the lazer.. That's where at least 80% of our battery life goes..

You should see a 160lb mastiff get excited about it.

I just bought one yesterday at HF. I've found the reading really drops as I move it farther away, but a couple of feet only makes about fifteen degrees difference. Like my Rutland, I guess it's a good reference. I see the IR more useful for baking.
 
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