IR Thermometer???

[tat2Pompadore]

Has anyone used an IR infrared thermometer to check mash temperatures? I have used them at work for steel temps, machine temps., etc. I have one in my toolbox at home. I just saw on a homebrew finds site, that they were in use for something or another. There were no real explanation to it. I am going to put mine to the test on my next brew. I'm just curious if anyone else has used these in their brew arsenal.

 

[oylerck]

Has anyone used an IR infrared thermometer to check mash temperatures? I have used them at work for steel temps, machine temps., etc. I have one in my toolbox at home. I just saw on a homebrew finds site, that they were in use for something or another. There were no real explanation to it. I am going to put mine to the test on my next brew. I'm just curious if anyone else has used these in their brew arsenal.

I have one and I use it after I stir the mash a little. I tested it along side a stick thermometer and it matched just fine so It works. However I would rather not open my mash tun that often so it would be nice to have an npt thermometer.

 

[bfabry]

I don't really trust mine but every time I use it side-by-side with my trusted thermowerks they come out the same, so maybe I should trust it more?

 

[kh54s10]

The problem with an IR thermometer is that it measures the temperature of the surface. I use a Thermapen and find that the mash temp varies until I stir it very well. Then the surface quickly cools compared to the middle of the grain bed.

 

[tat2Pompadore]

View attachment ImageUploadedByHome Brew1491425414.867432.jpg

Agreed on the center mass of the mash. This is the unit I use at work. We have to rely on them to be pretty accurate. There are emissivity settings that can be adjusted. Like I said, I will try it out and see if it works for mash in temps. Thanks for the replays.