Needle Temperature Measurement by Infrared Pyrometry

An infrared flux measuring device has been built and calibrated to measure the temperature of a sewing machine needle during operation. Resolution along the length of the needle has been set at 0.050 in. so that a temperature profile from the point to the shank can be obtained during sewing. A description of the cell, mounting, resolution, frequency requirements, and calibration is given. Results of a study of temperature distribution along a needle operating in cloth are discussed.