Remote focus added to IR thermometer

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Jan 12, 2006

Raytek has improved the Marathon MM infra-red thermometer with an optional motorised, remote-controlled variable target focus capability.

Raytek has improved the Marathon MM infra-red (IR) thermometer with an optional motorised, remote-controlled variable target focus capability.

Aimed at industrial temperature measurement applications, the unit lets users adjust the focus of measurement targets, either by push-button at the rear of the instrument, or remotely via an RS232 or RS485 PC connection, where adjustments can be seen real-time through video.

Users can select from standard fixed-focus sensors or sensors with the variable focus option, both with a focus range between 200mm and 2.2m.

Close-focus sensors are also available with fixed optics letting targets down to 0.5mm be measured from a distance of 150mm.

With the unit, engineers can continuously observe and record temperature variations in their processes to take immediate corrective action.

The variable focus feature is suitable for large, multiple sensor installations, where sensors are periodically replaced or the distance to the measurement object changes.

Applications include: steel and metals processing (foundry and forging operations and heat treating); glass bending, forming, tempering, annealing and sealing; paper processing (ink drying, curing and lamination); plastics processing and thermoforming; and semiconductor processing.

All the Marathon MM sensors provide integrated through-the-lens sighting, plus either laser or video-sighting for correct aiming and target location.

It is also available with simultaneous real-time video monitoring and automated image recording and storage.

The thermometer incorporates an optional live video feed into its data acquisition and sensor programming software allowing for active frame capture of process information.

The sensor can be set up for standalone operation, or configured for a multi-sensor network.

The unit is housed in a sealed Nema 4 enclosure that withstands demanding process environments.

Temperature range is -40 to +3000C, and it consists of five IR temperature sensor models, each with a specific measurement wavelength and temperature range appropriate for either low (-40 to +800C) or high-temperature (300 to 3000C) production monitoring.

All sensors have identical installation hardware and include the firm's Datatemp Multidrop software for consistent installation, configuration and data capture across the full range of an application.

Each sensor is IP65 sealed to prevent contamination and damage during installation, set-up and use.

Standard analogue, digital and discrete relay outputs are included for simultaneous transmission of data, as well as triggering alarm and control signals.

Using the built-in RS485 interface, up to 32 sensors can be networked in a multi-drop configuration.

Remote monitoring, sensor control and data acquisition can be managed from one PC, using the Raytek software.

Accessories include a standard thermal jacket (protective housing for harsh environments) and interchangeable water-cooling.