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Why passive infrared is ideal for motion sensor units

September 6, 2023

A motion sensor unit is used to monitor an area and send an alert if movement occurs. Modern motion sensors have a variety of uses, ranging from security to saving energy in lightbulbs. To do this, the motion sensor unit can incorporate passive infrared sensors.

Passive infrared detects temperature. It looks for infrared light through heat. All objects give off some form of heat, so the detector can use this thermal information to distinguish changes through infrared radiation.

Motion sensor units that utilize passive infrared can be used in dark or light environments. They are extremely useful because they can distinguish thermal information from animals, people and even objects.

At Dexter Research Center, we pride ourselves on our high-performance infrared technology. If you are interested in a motion sensor unit that uses passive infrared, make sure to look at our presence sensor that can be found in our specialty items.

With that said, let’s find out more about why passive infrared can be utilized within a motion sensor unit.

How does passive infrared work in motion sensor units?

To use passive infrared sensors effectively, a motion sensor is designed with two units. Both of these units have a material in them that protects its sensor and reacts to infrared radiation. There is also a lens to help improve the sensor’s overarching focus.

When an environment is consistent or still, the passive infrared sensors will stay idle. This is because they will sense that the infrared is at a balanced level. For instance, it may detect a level of infrared from furniture or interior items.

However, if movement occurs from a heat source, the passive infrared sensors will detect it. When a person passes by the first sensor, it will cause an increase in temperature. This is known as a positive differential change. But then, as the person leaves the area, the temperature will drop. This is known as a negative differential change. The change will then create an alert signal.

Can passive infrared sensors help motion sensor technology?

Passive infrared can enhance motion sensor technology in a range of different industries. For security, passive infrared motion sensors can be used for entry control and exit control, which is why they can be incorporated into security lighting circuits or alarms.

Additional benefits include:

Being easy to use in internal, external, dark or light environments
Creating bespoke control patterns
Utilizing movement rather than a position to provide a security risk alert
Only using a small amount of energy when it is idle
Acting non-invasive as it does not retain personal data

Where else can you use passive infrared sensors?

A motion sensor unit that uses passive infrared is a great addition to an entry control and exit control system. Common forms of passive infrared technology and their benefits include:

  • Automatic lights to ensure energy can be saved when rooms are not being used
  • Temperature control, including thermostats and thermometers, to save energy
  • Automatic doors to help people enter or leave a building and to maintain ventilation
  • Dispensers for soaps, toothpaste and wipes to maintain hygiene

The Motion Detector – Presence Sensor is available at Dexter Research Center

It is important that you have the right security or motion detector installed in your building or home. If you are looking for a passive infrared motion sensor unit, we would recommend that you look at our Motion Detector – Presence Sensor. It has sensing functions for up to two feet and is simple to reconfigure for bespoke use.

Not only is it perfect for subsystems, but it has very few costs and can be used inside a smart home as temperature control or for saving energy. It can also be used for safety and security. Make sure to look at our specialty items page if you are interested in learning more about it.

Our specialists at Dexter Research Center can help you!

We are experts when it comes to infrared and temperature-related technology. So, if you are interested in discovering more of our high-quality products, please feel free to contact us at any time. You can call us on +1 (734) 426-3921 or email info@dexterresearch.com to find out more information.

Where motion sensors factor into exit control

August 25, 2023

Where motion sensors factor into exit control

In optics engineering and security systems, integrating motion sensors into exit control mechanisms has become a pivotal advancement. As the demand for sophisticated security solutions grows, understanding the nuances of how motion sensors factor into exit control is essential for professionals in the field. This article delves deep into the subject, elucidating motion sensors’ technical intricacies and applications in exit control systems.

Motion Sensor Lights: Illuminating Security and Efficiency

Motion sensor lights, often integrated with passive infrared technology, have emerged as a dual-purpose solution for security and energy conservation. When someone enters or exits a room, these lights automatically activate or deactivate, eliminating the need for manual intervention and reducing energy wastage. Moreover, when integrated into a comprehensive access control system, these lights can be programmed to illuminate upon detecting suspicious activity, thereby enhancing the security quotient of the premises.

Motion Detectors: The Vanguard of Home Security

Motion detectors, equipped with advanced motion detection algorithms, serve as the first line of defense in many security systems. Their primary function is to detect unauthorized presence and trigger immediate alerts. For homeowners or facility managers, this means instant notifications if an intruder breaches the premises. Furthermore, when these detectors are paired with professional monitoring services, they send alerts to the user and communicate directly with the monitoring service. This seamless communication alerts emergency services promptly, amplifying the security apparatus.

Reimagining Exit Control: From Push to Exit Buttons to Motion Sensors

Traditional exit control mechanisms, like push-to-exit buttons, have been a staple in security systems for years. However, the advent of motion sensors has revolutionized this domain. These sensors, typically mounted above the door on the interior side of the frame, employ passive infrared or other motion detection techniques to sense movement. When someone approaches the door to exit, the sensor detects this motion and triggers the door to unlock. This hands-free approach enhances user convenience and ensures that doors remain secure, as they can’t be unlocked with conventional methods.

The Technical Edge: Why Optics Engineers Favor Motion Sensors

For optics engineers, the appeal of motion sensors lies in their precision and adaptability. These devices harness the power of passive infrared technology, which detects changes in infrared radiation emitted by objects in their field of view. This technical prowess ensures that the sensors can differentiate between animate and inanimate objects, reducing false alarms and enhancing system efficiency. Moreover, integrating these sensors into a broader access control system allows engineers to design comprehensive security solutions tailored to specific needs.

Embracing the Future of Motion Sensing

Dexter Research has proudly supplied motion sensing detectors for over forty years. We continue to push the boundaries of detection, supplying a range of passive infrared sensors suitable for many applications. Our solutions offer unparalleled accuracy and reliability. For those seeking to elevate their exit control systems, Dexter Research sets the gold standard. Discover the unmatched potential of our low-cost motion sensors and join us in shaping the future of security.

How do Security Sensors Work?

July 22, 2023

Security sensors are an ever-expanding field in science and technology as they offer enhanced protection to people and machinery within working environments. These sophisticated devices are installed to detect and monitor potential hazards, such as fire outbreaks, gas leaks, unauthorized access, and more. In this blog post, we look at how security sensors work in a range of applications.

What is a Security Sensor?

A security sensor is an electronic device designed to alert a security system when something specific is detected, such as gas, motion, or temperature changes. These sensors are the first line of defence against hazards and enable those within the environment to act quickly to prevent further risks. Thanks to their outstanding capabilities, security sensors are widely used in home and workplace security, gas analysis, fire suppression, and manufacturing processes.

How do Specific Security Sensors Work?

As mentioned above, security sensors are available for a range of applications, including gas analysis, fire detection, and non-contact measurements. We provide an overview of how sensors work in the following situations.

Gas Analysis

Gas sensors are used to detect the presence of gases in the air in many medical and life science fields. Different types of gas sensors are available, including fiber optic, infrared IR), optical, and gas sensor arrays. However, IR gas detection systems are favorable due to their high accuracy and sensitivity.

Gas sensors are used to monitor air quality, and the presence and concentration of gases, vapors, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that may pose risks to workers and the environment. These are commonly used in environmental monitoring applications and in the food, oil and gas, and transportation industries.

Fire Detection

Gas sensors can also be used for early fire detection by detecting combustible gases or flames. Additionally, smoke detectors and heat detectors are other types of sensors used for fire detection. The difference between these two options is that smoke detectors use photoelectric or ionization technology to detect smoke particles in the air, while heat detectors detect changes in temperature.

Non-Contact Temperature Measurement

Infrared sensors are used for non-contact temperature measurement in multiple industries, such as food processing, oil and gas, and manufacturing. These sensors detect infrared radiation emitted by objects and convert it into an electrical signal, which is then used to calculate the temperature of the object. These accurate temperature measurements take place without physical contact, therefore preserving the integrity of the object being measured.

Dexter Research Center and Sensor Solutions

At Dexter Research Center, we take pride in being the leading company for infrared sensing and detect-and-manage solutions. With our extensive knowledge and experience, we offer superior sensitivity, unmatched signal-to-noise ratios, and reliable form factors built to MIL-Spec standards. Our Temperature Sensing Module, delivering medical-grade accuracy, is the go-to solution for non-contact temperature sensing.

With over 30 core thermopile products, surpassing all global competitors combined, each detector undergoes rigorous 100% testing for industry-leading quality. Providing our customers with a wide selection of over 1,000 thermopile configurations, we are dedicated to supporting them worldwide. We are committed to continual improvement, ensuring we meet our customers’ mission-critical sensing needs for decades to come with competitive strategies in marketing and pricing.

Choosing Detectors for Fire Suppression Equipment

July 12, 2023

Fire suppression equipment is critical for ensuring safety in multiple industries, especially environmental monitoring, gas analysis, and non-contact temperature measurements. Detectors are an integral part of fire suppression systems as they enable the early detection of fires and trigger a specific response to reduce potential risks. In this blog post, we will explore the factors to consider when choosing detectors for fire suppression equipment to ensure optimal fire protection.

Fire suppression equipment describes a collection of solutions designed to put out a fire. This includes fire detectors, sensors, and extinguishing systems. Fire detectors come in different types, each designed to detect specific fire hazards. The four main types of fire detectors are flame, heat, smoke, and thermopile. Below we provide a brief overview.


Understanding Fire Suppression Equipment

Flame detectors

Flame detectors detect the radiation emitted by flames and can be infrared, ultraviolet, or a combination of both. They are commonly used in high-risk areas such as industrial facilities and fuel-loading areas.

Heat detectors

They are designed to detect an increase in temperature and are less prone to false alarms than smoke detectors. They are particularly useful in environments where smoldering fires are more likely to occur, such as storage areas or boiler rooms.

Smoke detectors

Available in two main types: ionization and photoelectric detectors. Ionization detectors are effective at detecting fast, flaming fires, while photoelectric detectors are better at detecting smoldering fires. Combining both types in dual-sensor alarms provides comprehensive fire detection capabilities.

What are Thermopile Detectors?

Thermopile detectors are passive radiation-sensing voltage-generating devices. They comprise several thermocouples arranged in a series that enables temperature measurement at a distance. The temperature is measured based on an object’s infrared energy and is conducted in a non-contact method.

Because of their multiple advantages, thermopile detectors are becoming an increasingly popular choice for use in fire suppression equipment. This includes reduced noise signal due to non-contact, fast response times, and reliable performance at extreme temperatures and in harsh environments.

Factors to Consider when Choosing Detectors

A wide range of detectors are available for fire suppression equipment, and several factors should be considered when selecting the most appropriate one for your application.

Environment and Application

Different settings, such as residential or commercial, may require specific types of detectors. Hazardous or sensitive areas, such as laboratories or healthcare facilities, may have unique fire detection requirements. In smaller areas, thermopile detectors such as Dexter’s ST60 is a highly suitable option.

Fire Detection Requirements

Response time and sensitivity levels are crucial factors. Consider the speed at which the detectors can detect fires and their sensitivity to different fire types to enhance safety levels. For superior fire detection and high sensitivity, the 1M thermopile is a solid choice.

Compatibility with Fire Suppression Systems

Ensure that the detectors can integrate seamlessly with the existing fire suppression equipment. Consider compatibility with communication protocols to enable efficient information exchange. This information should be clarified with the manufacturer you are considering working with.

Dexter Research Center

Dexter Research Center is a leading provider of detectors and sensors for fire suppression and detection, gas analysis, and temperature measurement. Or detectors are widely recognized for their sensitivity, accuracy, and durability, making them a trusted choice for various applications.

We manufacture a range of silicon-based and thin-film thermopile detectors that operate remotely and non-contact. Our detectors offer accurate temperature measurements without disturbing the subject, making them ideal for various industrial processes, medical procedures, and biomedical cultures.

The models used in fire suppression equipment include the 1M, 2M, and ST60 thermopiles, all of which come with high sensitivity and good signal-to-noise ratios.

How Thermopile Detectors Factor Into Gas Analysis

June 20, 2023

Gas analysis plays a crucial role in various scientific fields, from environmental monitoring to industrial processes, to ensure the health and safety of personnel and their working space. However, to accurately measure and analyze gases, reliable detectors are essential. One detector commonly used in gas analysis is the thermopile detector, which converts thermal energy into electrical energy. This blog post will explore how thermopile detectors factor into gas analysis and their significance in this field.

Thermopile Detectors

Thermpoile detectors are commonly used for non-contact measurement applications such as gas analysis. They comprise multiple thermocouples arranged in series and convert radiation energy into electrical energy based on the principle of non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) gas measurement.1 When infrared radiation passes through a gas sample, certain wavelengths are absorbed by the gas molecules. The amount of absorbed radiation is directly proportional to the concentration of the gas. Thermopile detectors can measure the temperature difference caused by the absorbed radiation, converting it into an electrical signal for gas concentration analysis.

Beyond this short introduction, we will not discuss what thermopile detectors are. However, if you would like a refresher, why not read some of our previous blog posts?

How Thermopile Detectors are Used in Gas Analysis

Thermopile detectors find widespread use in various gas analysis applications because of their many advantages. They are employed in both research and industrial settings to measure and analyze different types of gases, including carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and trace gases.

One of the first advantages of thermopile detectors is they are designed so that only the sample cell and its connected components are exposed to the gas stream being analyzed. In other sensors, the sensor is directly exposed to the gas, resulting in failure or inaccurate measurements. Aside from this crucial advantage, they are also corrosion-resistant, long-lasting, and reliable detectors that will not be damaged by flammable or toxic gases. These features make thermopile detectors highly suitable for precise and accurate gas measurement and analysis.

Examples of gas analysis applications utilizing thermopile detectors include evolved gas analysis in chemical reactions, monitoring gas concentrations in industrial processes, and trace gas analysis in environmental studies. Compared to other gas analysis techniques, thermopile detectors offer accuracy, high sensitivity, and reliability.

Thermopile Detectors with Dexter Research Center

Dexter Research Center has been a leading provider of infrared thermopile detectors since its establishment in 1977. We offer the largest selection of thermopiles, including high-quality Bismuth-Antimony thin-film and silicon-based radiation-sensing thermopile detectors for a wide range of sensing applications.

Our expertise lies in customizing detectors to meet precise specifications, resulting in superior detector and system performance. So, if you’re looking for thermopile detectors for gas analysis applications, look no further. We manufacture three series of gas analysis thermopile detectors: 2M, 2M Quad, and ST60, each with high sensitivity, signal-to-noise ratios, and reliability.

Contact Dexter Research Center to learn more about our thermopile detectors and how they can benefit your gas analysis applications.

References

https://www.azosensors.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=591

When You Might Need Non-Contact Temperature Measurements

Accurate temperature measurement is vital in various industries and scenarios where traditional contact-based methods may not be practical or suitable. While traditional contact-based methods have long been used for temperature measurements, there are situations where they may not be suitable or practical. In such cases, non-contact temperature measurement emerges as an invaluable solution, offering safe and efficient temperature measuring without compromising the integrity of an object. In this blog post, we will explore the technology behind non-contact temperature measurement and its key applications.

What is Non-Contact Temperature Measurement?

Non-contact temperature measurement is a method that enables an object’s temperature to be measured without physical contact between the sensor and the object. This method relies on the detection and analysis of the infrared radiation emitted by the object. Infrared radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation that cannot be seen with the human eye but can be detected and analyzed by specialized temperature sensors.

Infrared radiation and optical analysis are the key components of non-contact temperature measurement. All objects above absolute zero temperature emit infrared radiations, and the intensity and spectrum of these radiations are directly related to the object’s temperature. Non-contact temperature measurement devices, such as infrared thermometers, thermal imagers, and fiber optic sensors, utilize optical analysis techniques to capture and interpret the emitted infrared radiation and provide accurate temperature readings.

Applications of Non-Contact Temperature Measurement

Non-contact temperature measurement is used widely across a range of industries because of the many advantages it provides. Let’s look at some of the key applications where non-contact temperature measurements are indispensable:

Building automation

Building automation systems can significantly benefit from non-contact temperature measurement. They are used to monitor HVAC systems, detect overheating, and ensure optimal thermal comfort. It allows for efficient temperature control and energy management in commercial buildings, reducing energy costs and improving occupant comfort.

Energy management

In the field of energy management, non-contact temperature measurement helps identify energy inefficiencies and optimize energy consumption. By monitoring the temperature of equipment, such as boilers, furnaces, and heat exchangers, potential energy losses can be detected and resolved early, leading to energy-saving measures.

Fire detection

Non-contact temperature measurement is crucial in fire detection systems. By monitoring temperature changes and anomalies, early fire detection can be achieved, enabling quick action and minimizing potential damage.

Healthcare and medical settings

Non-contact temperature measurement devices, particularly infrared thermometers, have become essential tools in healthcare facilities. They offer a non-invasive and hygienic way to measure human body temperature for mass screening, infection control, and patient monitoring.

Industrial process control

Non-contact temperature measurement is used in various industrial processes, such as heat treatment, drying, and curing applications. It enables engineers to precisely monitor objects in motion, such as conveyor belts or rotating machinery, without disrupting their movement. This ensures optimal process conditions and product quality.

Manufacturing

In metalworking, glass manufacturing, and plastics processing industries, precise temperature control is crucial for maintaining product quality and optimizing process efficiency. Non-contact temperature measurement enables real-time monitoring and control of temperature during production, ensuring optimal conditions.

Non-Contact Temperature Measurements with Dexter

From manufacturing processes to healthcare settings and preventive maintenance, accurate and fast temperature measurements are essential for quality control, safety, and efficiency.

Dexter Research Center is a leading provider of infrared sensing and detect-and-manage solutions. Our devices offer better signal-to-noise ratios and superior sensitivity, and our core range includes over 30 thermopile thin-film and silicon-based products. Whatever your industry, if you’re in need of a non-contact temperature sensor, Dexter will have a solution for you.

Contact us today to learn more about the non-contact temperature measurements Dexter offers.

What is an Infrared Thermopile Detector?

June 1, 2023

Infrared thermopile detectors are used to take non-contact temperature measurements based on the infrared (IR) energy an object emits. They are made up of small sensors called thermocouples, and when in contact with IR, they produce an electric voltage. Infrared thermopile detectors have an important role in various industries and are frequently used for industrial manufacturing processes and environmental monitoring applications. This blog post will provide an introduction to infrared thermopile detectors, along with their advantages and applications.

Understanding Infrared Radiation

Before diving into how IR thermopile detectors work, it’s important to understand the basics of infrared radiation. Infrared radiation is a type of energy with wavelengths longer than visible light but shorter than radio waves, which fall in the range of 780nm and 1mm. So, although it is not visible to the human eye, it can be felt as heat. Every object emits infrared radiation, enabling researchers to understand properties such as heat distribution and temperature variations.

How Infrared Thermopile Detectors Work

The main components of infrared thermopile detectors are thermopile sensors, which operate based on the Seebeck effect principle. As mentioned, they comprise several thermocouples. Each thermocouple consists of at least two wires made from different metals, and at one end, the wires are joined together to form a junction. These wires produce a voltage proportional to the temperature gradient across their junctions. This signal can then be amplified, processed, and converted into meaningful temperature data.

Advantages and Limitations of Infrared Thermopile Detectors

There are many benefits to using infrared thermopile detectors, including non-contact temperature measurement, which enables remote sensing in challenging environments. Their fast response time enables real-time monitoring, while their high sensitivity ensures the detection of even subtle temperature changes. Furthermore, these detectors can be hermetically sealed, protecting them from environmental factors.

Recognizing Limitations

Despite their remarkable capabilities, infrared thermopile detectors have a few limitations. They typically operate within a specific spectral range, limiting their suitability for certain applications. Ambient temperature variations may affect accuracy, necessitating careful calibration and compensation techniques. Evaluating these limitations when selecting an appropriate detection solution is essential, as they may not suit every application.

Comparison with Other Infrared Detectors

Infrared thermopile detectors provide distinct advantages over other types of infrared sensors, such as bolometers or pyroelectric detectors. Thermopiles offer greater sensitivity, a wider field of view, and higher temperature measurement capabilities, making them ideal for various scientific and industrial applications.

Infrared Thermopile Detectors from Dexter Research Centre

Dexter Research Center, a pioneer in infrared thermopile detectors since 1977, leads the industry with an extensive selection of cutting-edge thermopiles. The product line includes high-quality Bismuth-Antimony thin-film and silicon-based thermopile detectors renowned for their superior performance and reliability.

Not only do we offer an exceptional range of standard products, but we also specialize in custom thermopile detectors and modules. Their expertise ensures tailored solutions for specific application requirements, while their commitment to quality and reliability guarantees unrivaled performance.

Contact us today for more information about the thermopile detectors we offer.

What’s the Best Solution for Laser Power Measurement?

May 18, 2023

As a relatively new piece of technology, the first laser was built in 1960, and they have since been developed into various configurations, shapes and sizes. Lasers emit precisely-controlled directed beams of light and are used in a range of industries, including astronomy, engineering, and healthcare, in applications that require a concentrated beam of light in a particular time, space or wavelength.

Advancements in science and technology have enabled researchers to measure the amount of energy per unit delivered by a laser beam, also known as laser power, and is usually measured in watts (W). Measuring laser power has two primary uses: to ensure the laser is utilizing the correct power level and, over time, to monitor the laser’s performance. Both reasons for measuring laser power ensure lasers are meeting industry requirements and processes can run smoothly. There are several methods for laser power measurement, including beam profilers, photodiodes and thermopile detectors, all of which we will discuss in more detail in this blog post.

How is Laser Power Measured?

The solutions you choose for measuring laser power must be accurate and reliable; otherwise, the data obtained may have a negative impact on your equipment maintenance and operations. In this section, we look at the different solutions and their key features and advantages.

Beam Profilers

A laser beam profiler is designed to measure the spatial distribution of the laser beam in relation to the beam propagation path. This method measures, displays and records the entire profile of a laser beam instead of the diameter alone, offering many benefits to its user.

Beam profilers have several uses. Not only are they used to measure laser intensity, but they are also used to accurately align laser beams, monitor performance over periods of time and to maintain a particular beam shape. These instruments are critical industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and scientific research.

Photodiodes

Photodiodes are another popular measuring tool. They utilize semiconductor devices that measure a current emitted by the laser light, which is conducted by converting light into an electrical signal. Photodiodes are highly sensitive and offer quick measurements, with a response time of micro or milliseconds.

The other benefits of using photodiodes for measuring laser power are that their low noise and high sensitivity allow them to take low power measurements in low light levels. They can also be used to characterize the intensity profile of a laser beam.

Thermopile sensors

A thermopile detector is one of the traditional methods of measuring laser power. It converts heat from the laser beam into an electric signal, which passes through the detector. The key advantage of a thermopile detector is that it can measure laser power over a variety of wavelengths. Still, other benefits include high sensitivity, quick response time and ease of use.

Where Can I Buy Laser Power Measurement Solutions?

If you’re looking for a superior solution for laser power measurement, Dexter Research Center are sure to have the answer for you. We develop a wide range of infrared sensing and detect-and-manage solutions, including industry-leading thermopile detectors for various applications.

Our thin film-based thermopile detectors are designed for applications such as laser power measurements, as well as gas analysis, fire detection and non-contact temperature measurements. They offer high output and signal-to-noise ratio, outstanding sensitivity and have a large active area, providing accurate measurement of laser power and energy.

Contact a Dexter team member today to find the best solution for your laser power measurements.

How Does Infrared Gas Detection Work?

April 23, 2023

Gas detection is a crucial safety measure in many industries, including chemical manufacturing, environmental monitoring, and oil and gas. Gas detection systems are implemented to accurately and quickly identify gas leaks, which is critical as many gas hazards can be hard to detect due to invisibility or lack of scent. One highly reliable method of identifying gas hazards is infrared gas detection, which utilizes infrared light to identify gases based on how they absorb specific wavelengths of light. In this blog post, we will explore how infrared gas detection works and the benefits of this method.

Infrared Gas Detection

Infrared gas detection systems are used in various commercial, industrial, and scientific applications as they offer long-term stability, high sensitivity, and accurate gas detection based on how gas molecules absorb infrared radiation (IR) at specific wavelengths.1

The components of an infrared gas detection system include a chamber with an emitter (such as an IR lamp) on one side and, on the other side, an optical filter and thermopile detector. Gases enter the chamber, and molecules within the gas will absorb some of the IR energy from the emitter. This process reduces the amount of energy or response at that specific wavelength, and based on the Beer-Lambert Law, the gas absorption is measured and analyzed to identify the concentration of gas present. If no gas is present, the thermopile will measure the energy received from the IR source and produce a proportional electrical signal.

Advantages of Infrared Gas Detection

There are numerous benefits to using infrared gas detectors, with two key points being their ability to detect gases that are transparent to visible light or those with low concentrations. They are also used to detect a wide range of gases at different temperatures, pressures, and visibilities. Other key benefits include the following:

  • A highly reliable and accurate method of gas detection
  • Easy to-use systems
  • Fast response times
  • High sensitivity and specificity
  • Low maintenance due to factory calibration
  • Minimal interference from environmental factors
  • Minimizes risk of contamination or poisoning

Dexter Research Center

Dexter Research Center was founded in 1977 by Robert Toth, Sr., Ph.D. to bring low-cost, high-performance infrared sensing to customers around the world. Our products offer superior sensitivity, enhanced signal-to-noise ratios, and meet MIL-Spec reliability and durability testing standards.

We provide our customers with over 1,000 thermopile configurations and a range of encapsulating gas options to offer superior sensing needs for a range of applications and industries. Our thermopile detectors are used in systems for gas analysis, gas detection, and flame sensing, and we continue to develop these products to meet high-market demands.

Contact a member of Dexter Research Center today to learn more about infrared gas detection.

References and Further Reading

https://www.azosensors.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=675
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8838934/

What does a Thermopile Detector Measure?

Thermopile detectors are used to measure the temperature of objects at a distance by converting infrared (IR) radiation into an electrical signal. This single main functionality serves a raft of functions across industry and science, enabling high-precision non-contact temperature measurements of a near-limitless range of substrates. High-sensitivity thermopile sensors also compare favourably with other types of temperature sensor modules in terms of durability and stability, making them ideal for intensive and routine applications alike.

This article will explore the working principle of thermopile detectors and the various applications they serve in multiple industries.

What is the Working Principle of a Thermopile Detector?

Understanding thermopile detectors requires a cursory understanding of thermocouple technology. Thermocouples–the most prevalent type of electrical temperature-sensing element–comprise two dissimilar metal wires bonded to form a “hot junction” and a “cold junction”. When the joint is heated or cooled, it generates a weak voltage (V), also known as the Seebeck voltage, which corresponds to the change in temperature. There is also a proportionality factor to consider, but for the purposes of this article, it is enough to know that the voltage generated is directly proportional to the temperature difference between the hot and cold junctions.

Thermopile detectors comprise an array of thermocouples connected in a series. The underlying idea is to multiply the effect of each individual element. They can be considered a group of miniature thermocouple junctions–similarly divided into hot and cold junctions–which are composed of alternating n-type and p-type materials, referred to as “arms”.

The arm materials vary with different thermopile types. Thin film systems, for example, tend to comprise arms of antimony and bismuth, while silicon thermopiles comprise alternating n-type and p-type Poly-Silicon or n-type and Gold or Aluminum. The cold junctions are generally connected to the detector package and around the perimeter, while the hot junctions–which define the active area–are located in the center and coated with an energy absorber. These hot junctions are suspended on a thin membrane to thermally isolate them from the rest of the package. So, how does the array work?

As mentioned, the multiple thermocouples in a thermopile detector are connected in series, which means that the voltage difference generated by each one is added together to produce a total voltage output. This total voltage output is proportional to the temperature of the object being measured. Since the Seebeck effect is a relatively weak signal, thermopile detectors are equipped with voltage amplifiers to ensure the signal can be read by a meter or data acquisition (DAQ) system. A calibration factor or transfer function is then used to convert the signal into a legible temperature measurement.

Applications of Thermopile Detectors

Thermopile detectors have various applications in various industries due to their accuracy, stability, and durability. Some of the critical applications of thermopile detectors are listed below:

  • Energy: Thermopile detectors are used for temperature control in boilers and heating systems. They are also used in solar panels for monitoring the temperature of the panels, ensuring that they operate at the optimal temperature for maximum efficiency.
  • Automotive: Thermopile detectors are used for temperature sensing in engines, exhaust systems, and catalytic converters. They are also used for temperature monitoring in battery packs in electric vehicles.
  • Aerospace: Thermopile detectors are used for temperature monitoring in spacecraft and satellites. They are also used in aircraft engines for temperature sensing and control.
  • Medical: Thermopile detectors are used for temperature measurement in medical equipment, such as infrared thermometers. They are also used in non-invasive temperature monitoring in the human body, such as in fever detection.
  • Industrial: Thermopile detectors are used for temperature control and monitoring in various industrial processes, including drying, baking, and heat treating. They are also used in industrial ovens and furnaces for temperature control.

Looking for Thermopile Detectors?

At Dexter Research Center, we lead the way in delivering infrared sensing solutions for various detection applications. For more information about thermopile detectors, refer to the technical papers section of our M5 Thin Film-based thermopile detector product page for a full Introduction to Thermopile Detectors. Should you have any further questions or require assistance, our knowledgeable team is here to help.

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