Sensor measures the true temperature of glass targets

The Optris CT glass infrared thermometer uses a 5.2um wavelength detector to measure temperatures from 100-1650degC on glass surfaces or products, including solar panels, flat glass lines, light bulbs, car glass finishing and glass containers.

An average measuring wavelength of 5.2um provides a low depth of penetration; using shorter wavelengths would result in the sensor measuring through the glass rather than the true temperature of the glass itself.

The measurement of temperature of glass surfaces is critical in glass process lines. Take container glass production, for example. The operator must obtain the temperature of the glass gob (molten glass that is poured into a blow mould) to observe the ratio between glass viscosity and gob weight. The mould temperature measurement is therefore critical for balancing the cooling levels of mould shells. Pharmaceutical manufacturers also require temperature sensors to monitor and control the temperature of the glass when sterilising bottles.

As Ulrich Kienitz, General Manager at Micro-Epsilon Optris, states: "In the production of flat glass, automotive glass and construction glass, homogeneity of the complete glass panel is important, particularly when it comes to bending, annealing and tempering zones. The double laser aiming of the CT glass marks the real spot location and spot size up from 1mm at any distance. The 70:1 optics with selectable focus, provide a very small spot size of just 1mm. To put this into perspective, the smallest spot size among competing sensor products in this class is 2.5mm. The speed and high-resolution optics are also unique for a sensor in this class."

The CT glass temperature sensor has a stainless steel sensor head and can be used in ambient temperatures of up to 85degC without cooling; to protect the laser aiming optics, the sensor has an automatic laser switch off at 50degC. Cooling and protection accessories are also available for harsh environmental conditions. For example, a water-cooled version is available for ambient temperatures of up to 175degC.

The CT glass comes with separate controller electronics for programming and display of measured temperature. This enables easy wiring of standard analogue outputs 0/4-20mA, 0-5/10V or thermocouple type K or J. There is also an optional integrated Profibus DP interface or other plug-in digital interfaces, including USB, RS232, RS485 or CANbus.

For more information on Micro-Epsilon's CT glass range of non-contact infrared thermometers, email [email protected].