Keeping tabs on concrete temperature throughout the setting process is crucial to ensure the concrete’s strength and quality once complete. Temperatures that are too high or too low can have a negative impact on the concrete’s mix design, and they can ultimately cause a project to fail because it doesn’t meet ASTM, AASHTO or other specifications. Luckily, it’s quite easy to keep tabs on concrete temperature with a simple lab grade thermometer. Before you choose the first thermometer you come across, however, you should keep a few important considerations in mind.
Different Types and Their Uses
Modern technology has given us several different types of lab grade thermometers that have their own unique strengths and features, suitable for general lab applications. Most will fall into one of the following categories.
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Liquid-in-Glass Thermometers
This category embodies the classic thermometer image: Liquid-in-glass (LiG) thermometers. They use mercury, red alcohol, or other liquids sealed in glass. The casing is marked with volume measurements. They’re ideal for measuring liquid temperatures. LiG thermometers rely on thermal expansion. The liquid expands or contracts with temperature changes, offering high level accuracy. Mercury thermometers can handle extreme temperatures. But, are mercury thermometers accurate? Yes. Mercury thermometers and their thermal properties enhance accuracy over other LiG materials. However, mercury thermometers poses health risks and is banned in some places. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) no longer calibrates mercury thermometers. Yet, the ASTM still mandates them for specific testing requiring precise 7C or 7F readings. Before using mercury thermometer, check local regulations. Alternatively, use other accurate LiG lab grade thermometer for safety.
Bimetallic/Bimetal Thermometers
This lab grade thermometer is often used to measure the temperature of foods and beverages. They are mechanical, using two metal strips (often steel and copper or brass) that bend at different rates when exposed to heat to move a dial along a scale. They’re a durable and fairly accurate solution, often displaying readings at an accuracy of ±1%. They are also safe, durable and inexpensive. However, certain environments can throw off the calibration of bimetal thermometers, making them less accurate and consistent than LiG thermometers, so they may not be the best choice for concrete testing purposes.
Digital Lab Grade Thermometer
Digital thermometers available are highly advanced, offering precision and quick, accurate readings. They come with features like automatic calibration, data logging, and maximum/minimum temperature recording. While more expensive than traditional digital thermometers, they are safer, containing no toxic materials. They also deliver results faster and often don’t need calibration for accuracy.
Infrared Lab Grade Thermometer
Infrared thermometers work by turning infrared energy into an electrical signal. This signal then shows up as a temperature readout on the device’s display. They don’t need to touch the substance they’re measuring. These thermometers can measure a wide range of temperatures. However, they’re not very accurate. They’re mostly used in tasks where achieving consistent results is more important than exact precision.
Digital vs. Mercury Lab Grade Thermometer
One of the biggest debates in science about lab grade thermometers is whether digital or mercury is more accurate for concrete testing (or any temperature measuring) purposes. Consider these factors that distinguish digital and mercury thermometers:
- Digital thermometers are more precise than mercury.
- Digital thermometers can log temperature readings and even connect to laptops for further analysis at a later time.
- Mercury thermometers are more affordable than digital while still providing accurate results.
- Certain areas ban the use of the toxic substance mercury.
- Digital thermometers provide faster results.
- Digital thermometers can sometimes self-calibrate, which saves time otherwise spent on hot/cold bath calibration.
- Certain testing processes call for the use of mercury thermometers as a standard.
Other Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lab Grade Thermometer
Thermometers offer different levels of convenience and features. These can make lab work quicker and easier, aside from providing accurate results. Take these factors into account when choosing your lab grade thermometer as well:
- Temperature display options (Fahrenheit, Celsius, Kelvin)
- Response time
- Temperature range capabilities
- Display types (printed scale or digital screen)
- Choose a casing material (plastic, glass, or metal) based on the volatility of the substances being measured.
- Application (field or lab use)
- Cost
- Testing process specifications and standards
- Logging/laptop hookup capabilities
- Customer reviews and ratings
5 Best Lab Grade Thermometer Options from Certified MTP
- Sper Scientific Min/Max Memory Thermometer: This digital thermometer simultaneously displays internal and external temperature, has min/max memory and comes with a Certificate of Calibration Traceable to NIST.
- Concrete Thermometer Stick: This organic filled stick thermometer measures a temperature range of 0-125°F, uses red liquid against a yellow background for easy readability and is protected by a sturdy aluminum shroud.
- Asphalt/Concrete Stem Thermometer: The bimetal thermometer has a measurement range of 50-500°F, displayed in increments of 5, and meets or exceeds ASTM E-11 specifications.
- Pocket Digital Thermometer: This small digital thermometer measures temperatures from -58-500°F (-50-260°C) for quick, accurate readings.
- Digital Min/Max Thermometer: On top of simultaneously displaying min/max temperature ranges, this lab grade thermometer is water resistant for extra durability in wet environments.
All these options are in stock and available for immediate shipping. Customers can view related products and rate them, enhancing their shopping experience.
We especially recommend the very popular Sper 800102 Infrared Thermometer Gun 8:1, -4 To 930 Deg F
