HORIBA IT-550 Non-Contact Infrared Radiometric Thermometer
| Brand | HORIBA |
|---|---|
| Origin | Japan |
| Model | IT-550 |
| Measurement Range | −50 to 500 °C |
| Spectral Response | 8–16 µm |
| Distance-to-Spot Ratio | 50:1 |
| Spot Size at 1 m | Ø24 mm |
| Emissivity Adjustment Range | 0.10–1.00 (adjustable in 0.01 steps) |
| Response Time | ≤2 s |
| Output Interface | Optional RS-485 / 4–20 mA analog output |
| Enclosure Rating | IP65 (drip-proof configuration available) |
| Compliance | HACCP-aligned design for food safety monitoring |
Overview
The HORIBA IT-550 is a high-precision, non-contact infrared radiometric thermometer engineered for reliable surface temperature measurement of small or thermally sensitive targets without physical interaction. Operating on the principle of Planck’s law of blackbody radiation, the IT-550 detects infrared energy emitted from a target surface within the 8–16 µm spectral band—a range optimized for accurate measurements across common industrial and food-grade materials with variable emissivity. Its fixed optical resolution (50:1 distance-to-spot ratio) ensures stable thermal sampling even at extended working distances: at 1 meter, the instrument resolves a circular measurement spot of Ø24 mm—critical for monitoring conveyor-belt items, sealed packaging, or moving components where contact probes are impractical or contamination-sensitive. Designed for integration into regulated environments, the IT-550 supports HACCP-compliant process monitoring by enabling rapid, repeatable, and traceable temperature verification without cross-contamination risk.
Key Features
- Fast response time of ≤2 seconds—enabling real-time process feedback and dynamic thermal profiling.
- Dual-laser sighting system: two coaxial visible lasers precisely define the center and boundary of the measurement spot, eliminating aiming uncertainty during setup or field operation.
- Adjustable emissivity (0.10–1.00 in 0.01 increments) with material-specific presets—ensuring accuracy across metals, plastics, ceramics, baked goods, and moist organic surfaces.
- Compact, lightweight housing (dimensions: 170 × 120 × 55 mm) with optional IP65-rated drip-proof enclosure—suitable for humid production floors, refrigerated storage areas, and washdown zones.
- Configurable analog (4–20 mA) and digital (RS-485 Modbus RTU) outputs—facilitating seamless integration with PLCs, SCADA systems, and centralized data loggers.
- No zero-point drift calibration required under stable ambient conditions—reducing maintenance overhead and improving long-term measurement consistency.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The IT-550 is validated for use across diverse sample types including stainless-steel surfaces, polymer films, baked confectionery products, chilled meat trays, and pharmaceutical blister packs. Its spectral response avoids atmospheric absorption bands (e.g., CO₂ and H₂O vapor interference), ensuring stable readings in ambient factory or cold-room environments. The instrument meets functional requirements aligned with HACCP Principle 3 (establishing critical limits) and supports validation documentation per ISO 22000:2018 Annex A. While not certified as a medical device, its performance characteristics conform to ASTM E1933-19 (Standard Test Methods for Measuring and Compensating for Emissivity Using Infrared Imaging Systems) for industrial radiometry applications. Traceability is supported via factory calibration certificate (NIST-traceable reference source), with optional on-site verification using calibrated blackbody sources.
Software & Data Management
The IT-550 operates as a standalone sensor but is fully compatible with HORIBA’s optional PC-based configuration utility for parameter setup, emissivity mapping, and alarm threshold definition. When integrated with third-party SCADA or MES platforms via Modbus RTU, it supports timestamped data logging with audit trail capabilities. For GxP-regulated users, the analog output path may be incorporated into 21 CFR Part 11-compliant systems when paired with validated data acquisition hardware and electronic signature protocols. No embedded firmware update mechanism is included; configuration changes require physical interface access—enhancing system integrity in locked-down manufacturing environments.
Applications
- Continuous temperature verification of baked, fried, or roasted food products on high-speed conveyors.
- Non-invasive monitoring of sealed packaging surface temperatures during sterilization or chill-hold validation.
- Thermal screening of electrical contacts, motor windings, and bearing housings in preventive maintenance programs.
- Process control of plastic extrusion dies, injection molds, and thermoforming platens where contact sensors degrade or distort thermal profiles.
- Validation of cold-chain integrity for frozen or refrigerated logistics—measuring palletized goods without opening insulated containers.
FAQ
What is the minimum measurable spot size at 50 cm distance?
At 50 cm, the spot diameter is Ø12 mm (calculated from the 50:1 D:S ratio).
Does the IT-550 support automatic emissivity correction?
No—it requires manual emissivity input based on material type and surface condition; no built-in spectral analysis or auto-emissivity algorithms are implemented.
Can the IT-550 be used in vacuum or inert-gas environments?
No—the optical path must remain in ambient air; the lens and housing are not rated for pressure differentials or gas compatibility.
Is NIST-traceable calibration documentation included with shipment?
Yes—a factory calibration certificate with uncertainty budget and reference standard traceability is provided standard with each unit.
How is the dual-laser alignment verified during routine operation?
Laser alignment is factory-set and mechanically locked; periodic verification is recommended annually using a collimation target or calibrated alignment jig.
