IR temperature probe and applicable standards

When testing emissions and pollution levels in light vehicles, regulations require the engine temperature to be checked. A new technology has recently emerged: remote measurement using an infrared sensor. Capelec has developed an innovative solution: a non-contact measurement probe, CAP1320, which can be fitted to the CAP320x series of emissions test benches | Fast and efficient | Accurate | Easy to use | Robust | This new-generation probe complies with current regulations in France and across Europe.

What the standard specifies for the diesel procedure

SRV F9-2 stipulates the following during testing:

Ҥ 4.3: Requirements relating to temperature measurement:
 The measurement of engine oil temperature shall be carried out using the device or one of the devices specified by the manufacturer at the time of type approval ”

The LNE annex explains:

“What the type-approval certificate LNE-6689 rev. 7 provides as evidence:”

The European Directive incorporates these solutions:

2010/48/EU: lists the methods that meet the conditioning requirements for carrying out the test:

Ҥ 8.2.2.2: Opacity measurement, vehicle conditioning, requirements concerning conditioning:
The engine must be warm: in other words, the engine oil temperature  measured by a sensor in the dipstick tube must be 80°C or correspond to the normal operating temperature if this  is lower, or the engine block temperature, measured by the level of infrared radiation, must reach a value at least equivalent to this ”

What the standard specifies for the Petrol procedure

SRV F9-1 sets out provisions for conditioning during the test but does not specify the means:

Ҥ 5.1: Preliminary checks:
 The engine must be at its normal operating temperature. ”
 
“  § 4.1: The gas analyser must be equipped with – a system for measuring the engine’s operating temperature ”

At the same time, certificate LNE 6688 states that the engine temperature sensor is not part of the type examination: this leaves the manufacturer free to choose the most relevant and best-suited technique.