What does a pyrometer do?

• Pyrometers measure exhaust temperature to verify maximum allowable operating temperature and protect the vehicle's engine from over-heating and potential damage. For example: When hauling a heavy load up a hill, a pyrometer will give a quicker indication of an overheating situation than monitoring the engine cooling system temperature.
• Pyrometers may indicate harmful over-fueling conditions as well. Over-fueling contributes to carbon build-up, lube oil dilution and higher operating temperatures.
• Pyrometers help optimize trim settings in boats in order to synchronize motors.
• Pyrometers help monitor applications with a so-called "dead load" that generate high temperature (e.g. tractors). Exhaust temperature is in direct relation to load.
• Operator response time impacts throttle settings and lag causes wasteful over-correction. An incorrect setting may cause an over temperature condition. Pyrometers help operators maintain optimal settings.
• Heavy duty applications - truck and bus, off-highway, marine - generate high heat. Pyrometers monitor temperature rise in critical high operating temperature environments.