Reminders
①Not recommended for use in measuring shiny or polished metal surfaces ( stainless steel,
aluminum, etc.).See Emissivity
②The unit cannot measure through transparent surfaces such as glass. It will measure the
surface temperature of the glass instead.
③Steam, dust, smoke, etc., can prevent accurate measurement by obstructing the unit’s optics.
Emissivity
Most (90% of typical applications) organic materials and painted or oxidized surfaces have
an emissivity of 0.95 (pre-set in the unit). Inaccurate readings will result from measuring
shiny or polished metal surfaces. To compensate, cove the surface to be measured with
masking tape or flat black paint. Allow time for the tape to reach the same temperature as the
material underneath it. Measure the temperature of the tape or painted surface.
Emissivity Values
Substance Thermal emissivity Substance Thermal emissivity
Asphalt 0.90 to 0.98 Cloth (black) 0.98
Concrete 0.94 Human skin 0.98
Cement 0.96 Lather 0.75 to 0.80
Sand 0.90 Charcoal (powder) 0.96
Earth 0.92 to 0.96 Lacquer 0.80 to 0.95
Water 0.92 to 0.96 Lacquer (matt) 0.97
Ice 0.96 to 0.98 Rubber (black) 0.94
Snow 0.83 Plastic 0.85 to 0.95
Glass 0.90 to 0.95 Timber 0.90
Ceramic 0.90 to 0.94 Paper 0.70 to 0.94
Marble 0.94 Chromium oxides 0.81
Plaster 0.80 to 0.90 Copper oxides 0.78
Mortar 0.89 to 0.91 Lron oxides 0.78 to 0.82
Brick 0.93 to 0.96 Textiles 0.90
