You'll want to know the temperature of the metal, whether you're trying to weld, test how well an appliance is working, or see if a piece of metal is safe to approach.There are a couple of digital tools that make this easy to use.If you want to measure higher temperatures and get a more accurate reading, choose the one that's right for you.
Step 1: The D:S ratio is the distance-to-spot ratio.
The D:S ratio can be found on the label or the manual.The first number tells you how far away from the target you should stand, while the second number shows the diameter of the spot the thermometer measures.When you're 12 inches away from the target, a D:S of 12:1 shows an area with a diameter of 2.5 cm.The name of the instrument is also known as IR pyrometers.You can still use the tool to take metal's temperature if you see an alternative name.Since you don't have to get too close to the metal, a thermometer is the best way to take the temperature.It's pretty accurate.It works best for surface level readings on thin sheets of metal.
Step 2: Stand closer to the metal than the D:S suggests.
Stand 12 inches (30 cm) from the metal if you have a D:S ratio of 12:1.Stand 8 inches from the metal if it's 8:1.This will make sure you get an accurate reading.
Step 3: The gun should be pointed at the metal.
The cool laser makes aiming a breeze.You'll get a reading on the screen almost immediately if you point the thermometer at the metal.There is a button you can press to change the display of your thermometer.Underneath the display, look for the button.
Step 4: Purchase a K-type thermocouple thermometer kit.
You will have everything you need to measure temperature if you get a kit.The most common type of thermocouple is the K-type and it can measure temperatures from 200 to 350 C.The 2 different types of metals are connected by thermocouples.The K-type is made with a variety of metals.You probably won't need any of the other types of thermocouples that measure different temperature ranges.A thermocouple is an easy way to measure temperature if you get a kit.It is easier to measure inside a piece of metal than it is outside.You could put the probe into an oven.It is possible to buy all the parts separately, but it can be difficult to set up and figure out without a good thermometer.Plug-in thermocouples fit into any thermometer.
Step 5: The screws on the thermocouple need to be loosened with aPhillips-head screwdriver.
The probe is made of metal or ceramic.There are two metal terminals marked as positive and negative on its base.There is a screw on each terminal.The screws should be turned counterclockwise once or twice.Don't remove the screws!They're still needed to hold the wires in place.Leave them on the terminals.
Step 6: The power wires need to be secured.
A pair of wires are attached to the probe in a thermocouple kit.The red and yellow wire is used in K-type thermocouples.The positive and negative terminal colors are yellow and red, respectively.Put them in the open slot on the side of the terminal and turn the screws clockwise.Check the owner's manual if you're not sure where to put the wires.They need to be put in the correct terminals in order to power the probe.Other thermocouples have different wire colors, but the way you install them is the same.It is very easy to do no matter what kind you have.
Step 7: The opposite end of the wiring should be plugged in.
Above the display screen, the port is usually on top of the meter.It will have two openings, one positive and one negative.The plug should be put into the port.The positive prong is shorter than the negative one.If you install the thermocouple the wrong way, it could damage the meter.
Step 8: Press the thermocouple against the metal.
The thermocouple has a sensor in it.You should be able to hold it against the metal long enough to get an accurate reading.After pressing the power button, put the thermometer in a safe place where it won't get damaged.Put on heat- resistant gloves if you are dealing with extreme temperatures.
Step 9: The probe should be held against the metal.
It can take a while, so be patient.The reading should be accurate if the thermometer is in place all the time.The temperature can be monitored by the display screen.You can record the number if it stays stable.Depending on what you measure, the amount of time you have to wait varies.If you want to get the most accurate reading, you'll have to wait 2 or 3 minutes.