What different a pyranometer from an irradiance meter?
The pyranometer and the irradiance meter both measure solar radiation. However, they use different methods and have different purposes.
A pyranometer is a tool that measures total solar radiation on a surface. This includes both direct sunlight and scattered light. Meteorologists predominantly utilize it for purposes such as weather prediction, climate observation, and solar energy studies. Manufacturers precisely calibrate pyranometers to deliver accurate readings of solar radiation, and they often include temperature sensors and additional features to mitigate environmental influences.
An irradiance meter is a tool that measures the strength of solar radiation. You can use it at a specific location or on a certain surface. It quantifies the solar energy impacting a designated area, typically expressed in watts per square meter (W/m²).
Researchers often use these meters in solar energy studies and applications. They help design and assess the performance of photovoltaic systems. They also measure the power output of solar cells or panels.
Measurement principle
Pyranometer:
The core component of a pyranometer is a spherical glass enclosure equipped with a thermopile or photoelectric element. It can convert the received solar radiation into an electrical signal. When the sun’s rays hit the receiver of the pyranometer, the receiver absorbs the solar radiation and converts it into heat. This thermal energy causes a temperature difference at both ends of the thermopile, generating an electrical signal proportional to the incident solar radiation.
Irradiance meter:
The irradiance meter measures the intensity of solar radiation at a specific point in space or on a particular surface. It usually uses a photovoltaic sensor or a thermopile sensor. The photovoltaic sensor generates an electrical signal by the photovoltaic effect when exposed to light, and the magnitude of the signal is related to the intensity of the incident light. The thermopile – type irradiance meter measures the intensity of radiation by converting the heat generated by absorbing radiation into an electrical signal.
Application scenarios
Pyranometer:
It is mainly used in meteorology for weather forecasting, climate monitoring, and solar energy research. It can measure the total solar radiation incident on a surface, including both direct sunlight and diffuse ( scattered ) light, helping scientists understand the changes in climate and environment, and the impact of pollutants in the atmosphere on solar radiation.
Irradiance meter:
It is commonly used in solar energy research and applications, such as photovoltaic system design and performance evaluation. It is used to measure the amount of solar energy incident on a given area, usually in the form of watts per square meter ( W/m² ), so as to determine the amount of power generated by solar cells or panels.
Structural characteristics
Pyranometer:
Usually has a circular dome – shaped structure, which can receive solar radiation from all directions. The dome is generally made of optical – quality glass to minimize diffusion and pollution and optimize the cosine response.
Irradiance meter:
There is no fixed structural form. Some irradiance meters have a simple flat – plate structure, and some may be equipped with collimators or other devices according to specific measurement requirements to limit the direction of incident light and improve the accuracy of measurement.
summary
Pyranometer measures the total solar radiation hitting a surface. An irradiance meter checks the intensity of solar radiation at a specific point or on a certain surface. Researchers widely utilize it in solar energy research and applications
