A type S radiation thermometer for steel mills

The need for standardization in infrared radiation thermometry has never been more significant than now, particularly in the US steel industry. The situation must be similar to that faced by thermocouple users and manufacturers in the last century. The technology is mature and the applications well understood by pyrometry and instrumentation specialists, but neither is well understood by the majority of mill engineers. Selection of optimum devices for various mill applications requires specialized knowledge. The steel companies have trimmed staff to the point that vendors are becoming the default technology specialists. However, the companies have no means to evaluate the competence of competing vendors and their devices. They thus default to devices and practices believed adequate instead of proven optimums. One solution is to develop a comprehensive set of standards, similar to those for thermocouples. These would include terminology, used in device specifications, along with recommended practices for use of certain device types in specific mill conditions and, finally, recommended practices for ancillary equipment and utilities, installation, commissioning, maintenance and periodic calibration verification.