Controlling infrared elements for precise temperature monitoring09 July 2018

Ceramicx in Ireland develops and produces infrared heating elements. These devices generate infrared radiation in order to heat objects on a non-contact basis.

The devices are used when composite materials or plastics need to be heated without contact as evenly as possible. When the heating temperature is too high or too low, this can lead to faulty shapes, inconsistent hardening and quality issues later.

Measuring the temperature of the radiation source and the ambient temperature are not sufficient to make clear decisions about the heating behaviour of the target itself. Therefore, the product temperature must be monitored and analysed, which is why Ceramicx uses IR temperatures sensors from Micro-Epsilon. The measurement values provided allow conclusions to be made about the state of the finished product and help to control the heating system.

The thermoMETER CT sensors with external controller from Micro-Epsilon can be firmly installed into the heating systems during production. The compact and robust design makes space-saving installation possible. The sensor head is robust against high temperatures allowing the sensors to be fixed on the heating element looking directly at the object to be heated. The measurement is performed on a non-contact basis as direct surface contact via temperature probes would damage the component.

The infrared elements equipped with Micro-Epsilon sensors offer precise and repeatable process control of the end products. Therefore, the reject rate can be minimised while the controlled temperature regulation has a positive effect on energy consumption.

The thermoMETER CT sensors have a temperature measuring range of -50°C to +600°C, response time is 120ms and can operate in high ambient temperatures up to +180°C.

Mark Venables

This material is protected by MA Business copyright
See Terms and Conditions.
One-off usage is permitted but bulk copying is not.
For multiple copies contact the sales team.