Noncontact Infrared Temperature Measurement System

Raytek® (USA), a provider of infrared (IR) thermometry, has enhanced its MI3 Series infrared temperature measurement system with MI3 1M and MI3 2M high temperature sensing heads. The new sensing heads extend the MI3's performance for specific original equipment manufacturer (OEM) applications and high temperature manufacturing processes.

Designed to deliver industry-leading performance and flexibility at the lowest installed cost per measurement point, the Raytek MI3 Series represents a new generation of performance and innovation in noncontact temperature monitoring. These high-performance IR sensors reduce energy costs by allowing tighter process control and more efficient process heating. Improved control performance usually results in less product variation, higher product quality and increased throughput.

The MI3 1M and MI3 2M are rugged, IP65 (NEMA 4) stainless steel sensing heads with a separate communication module. They provide a 1µm and 1.6µm spectral response respectively, and offer a wide measurement range of 500°C to 1800°C (1µm) and 250°C to 1400°C (1.6µm). The sensing heads have a 120°C head ambient rating with 100:1 optical resolution and are available with standard laser sighting. These features, coupled with a fast 10msec response time, create a powerful temperature sensor for applications, such as silicon crystal growth, DSS polysilicon reactors, secondary metal processing, metal heat treating, and heat treating equipment OEMs.

The MI3MCOMM multichannel communication box provides all the functionality of the proven MI Series sensors with numerous new features. It supports up to four sensing heads in a convenient DIN-mountable package. All sensor-operating parameters are easily accessed and configured through the standard user interface with large backlit LCD display, or with the powerful Raytek DataTemp® multidrop software via a USB 2.0 digital interface. The innovative multiple sensing head interface of the MI3COMM communication box supports up to eight individually addressable heads when used with the accessory interface box.

The Raytek MI3 Series sensors offer a choice of scalable 0/4 to 20 mA and 0 to 5/10 VDC analog outputs, or Type J, K, R or S thermocouple outputs. With RS485, Modbus® or Profibus network interface options, integration into existing control equipment or OEM systems is seamless. Fully compatible with the Modbus and Profibus network protocols, the MI3 sensors can be used in a wide range of applications requiring digital communication for field devices. The updated thermometers offer a low-cost, multi-channel noncontact temperature measurement solution with network communications capability.

Standard USB 2.0 communication facilitates sensor configuration and is valuable for troubleshooting when the device is installed in hostile locations. Additionally, this capability saves maintenance time and minimises technician exposure to hazardous environments. Robust field calibration software also allows on-site calibration of sensors, which further reduces service time and expense.

Thanks to precision, high-resolution optics, the Raytek MI3 1M, MI3 2M sensors provide 100:1 optical resolution at a very attractive price. For high-volume OEM applications, the sensing heads allow a direct digital interface to the host machine controller.

The MI3's user-programmable, isolated alarm output is an easy way to achieve alarm and control redundancy or provide simple on/off control capabilities. Its optically isolated relay allows for local alarm capability, eliminating the need for separate limit switches or alarms.

Other standard MI3 features include: adjustable emissivity, transmissivity, peak hold, valley hold and signal averaging; as well as configurable inputs for emissivity control, ambient background compensation and trigger/hold input.