title: Evaluation of non-contact infrared thermometry for measuring the temperature of pig carcasses in chillers.
abstract: An OPTEX Thermo Hunter infrared (IR) non-contact hand-held thermometer was examined to determine its suitability for measuring porcine carcass surface temperatures during chilling. The manufacturer claims that the unit has the capability of measuring a range of temperature between -50°C and 500°C, with a resolution of 0·1°C. The device allows for an automatic determination and adjustment of unknown emissivities of objects to be measured. The stability of the device was tested in the laboratory at 4 and 18°C and for accuracy against a known surface temperature. Tests were conducted in a commercial chiller to determined whether the device could detect temperature differences between carcasses, sites on one carcass and chillers. The results obtained were also examined for repeatability. The thermometer required a minimum initial stabilisation period of 120 min after which the results compared favourably with known surface temperatures. The chiller tests indicated that temperature differences could be detected between the various carcasses, sites on one carcass and chillers, and that the readings were reproducible. The device is best suited for determining temperature trends when overall accuracy is not essential. The device could also be useful in evaluating chiller performance.
authors: Animal Products Technology Branch, Division of Animal Production, Western Australian Department of Agriculture, Baron-Hay Court, South Perth, Western Australia, 6151, Australia.
authors: S L
authors: SL
authors: Metternick-Jones
authors: S G
authors: SG
authors: Skevington