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GlobalSpec.com > Sensors, Transducers and Detectors > Temperature Sensing > Noncontact Infrared Temperature Sensors > Emissivity Determination and Temperature Calculation of Fluids in Piping Assemblies

There has been little discussion about infrared (“IR”) thermography’s ability to determine the temperatures of heating liquids and gas within piping assemblies. Determining accurate emissivity values as related to the curvature of common pipes is critical to accurate temperature determination. It is generally accepted that the emissivity of any non-blackbody object declines as the angle of incidence increases from zero degrees (perpendicular). This fact creates complications with respect to the accurate temperature evaluation of a section of pipe due to the inherent curvature of common piping materials. We will discuss the determination of emissivity for various piping systems and provide explicit directions in order to aid the investigator during infrared inspections/surveys of heated piping assemblies. The use of infrared thermography in determining the temperature of fluid in pipes is a standard practice in the field of thermographers. The understanding of the geometry of the systems necessary to provide for proper evaluation of the readings is extremely important.

Emissivity Determination and Temperature Calculation of Fluids in Piping Assemblies - Video Cameras and Accessories