Radiation Errors in Temperature Measurement (SMT-HT-35)
This apparatus is designed to study the errors that occur in temperature measurement due to the influence of thermal radiation from a hot surface, demonstrating how factors like sensor type, air velocity, and surface temperature affect measurement accuracy. It allows students to investigate and quantify these radiative errors, which is critical for obtaining reliable data in practical thermal systems.
The unit consists of a vertical stainless steel duct with a variable-speed centrifugal fan that generates a controlled air flow. A band heater inside the duct creates a radiant heat source, and its power is continuously adjustable. The system is equipped with multiple thermocouples featuring different tip styles—bare, painted black, and rough surface—to compare their responses. An anemometer measures air velocity, while additional thermocouples record the inlet and outlet air temperatures, providing comprehensive data on the thermal environment.
Its primary application is in mechanical and chemical engineering education for teaching heat transfer and instrumentation principles. The key benefit is the practical insight it provides into sensor selection and placement, enabling students to understand and correct for radiative errors in real-world applications such as HVAC, industrial process control, and engine testing, thereby improving the accuracy of temperature monitoring and system efficiency.