TBQ-2C pyranometer solar radiation sensor​

The TBQ-2C pyranometer solar radiation sensor​ is an integrated Class 1 radiometer designed to measure total solar radiation in the 0.3–3.2 μm wavelength band. It employs a fast-response wire-wound thermopile as its core sensing element, with the sensing surface coated in 3M matte black paint. This configuration precisely converts the thermoelectric potential generated by solar radiation into electrical signals. Its dual-layer quartz glass dome structure effectively suppresses air convection interference. The inner and outer dome design minimizes self-radiation effects, ensuring stable and high-precision radiation measurements. This solar radiation is highly suitable for applications including meteorological monitoring, environmental observation, and photovoltaic assessment.

Parameter

Specification

Sensitivity

7-14mv/kw*-2

Response time

<35s(99% response)

Annual stability

≤+2%

Cosine response

≤+7%(solar elevation10”)

Position

≤+5%(solar elevation10°)

Introduction

The TBQ-2C Total Radiation Pyranometer is primarily used as a Class 1 instrument for measuring total solar radiation within the wavelength range of 0.3–3.2 micrometers. This pyranometer consists of a double-layer quartz glass cover, sensing elements, a sunshield, and a desiccant chamber within the housing. The following sections will illustrate its key structural components, providing a clearer understanding of the product’s internal construction and fundamental performance characteristics.

Structure of pyranometer solar radiation sensor

  • Double-layer quartz glass cover: The outer cover minimizes temperature fluctuations caused by air convection, while the inner cover blocks infrared radiation emitted by the outer cover itself.
  • Sensing Element: Utilizes a wire-wound, electroplated, fast-response thermopile. The sensing surface is coated with 3M matte black paint. When exposed to sunlight, the temperature rises, creating a thermoelectric potential difference with the cold junction on the opposite side. This potential difference is directly proportional to the intensity of solar radiation.
  • Light shield: Used for periodic calibration and zero-point testing, it blocks incident radiation to ensure measurement accuracy.
  • Desiccant in the housing: Maintains a dry internal environment, prevents fogging on the inner surface of the glass cover, and enhances long-term optical transmittance.
Solar Radiation Sensors Pyranometers (13)

Details Show

Below are the detailed product specifications for the TBQ-2C Total Solar Radiation Meter. Through close-ups of its multi-angle structure and manufacturing processes, you can gain a more intuitive understanding of its core components and manufacturing quality.

Should you have any questions regarding usage methods, model selection, or technical parameters, please feel free to contact our professional team for assistance at any time.

solar radiation sensor working principle

The weather station solar radiation sensor measures solar radiation intensity by absorbing sunlight and converting it into heat. An internal thermocouple then transforms the resulting temperature difference into an electrical signal. A double-layer quartz glass cover minimizes environmental interference, ensuring stable and reliable measurements. The following provides a concise overview of its operating principle to help you better understand the sensor’s functionality.

  • Absorbing sunlight: The black coating on the sensor surface rapidly absorbs sunlight, converting light energy into heat.
  • Generating a temperature difference: The sensing surface heats up while the opposite side remains cooler, creating a temperature gradient between them.
  • Generating an electrical signal: The internal thermopile generates a weak voltage due to the temperature difference, with the voltage magnitude being directly proportional to the intensity of sunlight.
  • Glass cover protects measurements: The double-layer quartz glass cover minimizes the effects of air convection and self-infrared radiation, ensuring more stable and accurate measurements.
  • Outputting radiation values: The system calculates the total solar radiation intensity based on voltage changes, ultimately outputting stable and reliable data.

Specifications

The TBQ-2C Total Radiometer features multiple key performance indicators, including sensitivity, response time, annual stability, cosine response, azimuth error, and temperature coefficient. These parameters collectively determine the sensor’s measurement accuracy and long-term reliability. Below are the complete technical specifications to help you better understand the product’s performance and select the appropriate application solution.

 Parameters

SeriesHCD
FeaturesHigh Sensitivity
Mounting Typemulti-function
DescriptionFlange installation
Model NumberTBQ-2C
Typeweather station
Brand NameXINFENG
UsagePAR
OutputRS485
DescriptionTotal pyranometer solar radiation sensor
Descriptionsolar radiation sensor
Output200mv of original output
Sensitivity7-14mv/kw*-2
Response time<35s(99% response)
Annual stability≤±2%
Cosine response≤±7%(solar elevation 10°)
Position≤±5%(solar elevation10°)
Non linear≤±2%
Spectral range0.3-3.2μm
Temperature coefficient≤±2%(-10–40℃)

Features of pyranometer solar radiation sensor

applications of pyranometer solar radiation sensor

The XF-CQ10 pyranometer solar radiation sensor is widely used in various fields such as transportation, meteorology, and environmental monitoring, helping customers improve safety and data accuracy.

Solar Radiation Sensors Pyranometers

Meteorological Observation

Used in weather stations and scientific monitoring sites, providing core data for weather forecasting and environmental assessment.

Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Monitoring

Evaluates solar resource potential, PV system efficiency, and operational status.

Solar Radiation Sensors Pyranometers

Environmental Science Research

Supports atmospheric, ecological, and agricultural research projects by monitoring solar radiation variations.

Solar Radiation Sensors Pyranometers

Architecture and Urban Planning

Analyzes solar radiation intensity to inform energy-efficient design and enhance lighting environments.

Solar Radiation Sensors Pyranometers

Agriculture and Greenhouse Monitoring

Oversees crop light conditions to optimize cultivation management and yield forecasting.

Solar Radiation Sensors Pyranometers

Education and Experimental Teaching

Supports solar radiation experiments and demonstration teaching at universities and research institutions.

Case

Below are field application photos of the TBQ-2C Total pyranometer solar radiation sensor in various scenarios, including meteorological observation, photovoltaic power generation, environmental monitoring, and agricultural greenhouses. These examples provide a visual understanding of the product. For project selection or technical consultation needs, please contact our team for assistance.

custom pyranometer solar radiation sensors

The low cost solar radiation sensor supports multiple customization options, allowing adjustment of parameter configurations, output interfaces, or installation methods to suit diverse application scenarios and technical requirements. Whether for research projects, photovoltaic systems, weather stations, or environmental monitoring, our professional team provides tailored customization services to ensure seamless sensor-system integration. Contact us for customized solutions.

  1. Customizable Measurement Range: Flexibly adjust the spectral response range or maximum total radiation measurement limit based on specific application requirements, accommodating scenarios from basic monitoring to high-intensity radiation observation.
  2. Customizable Output Interfaces: Supports multiple data output formats, including 4–20 mA, voltage, current pulses, or digital signals, enabling seamless integration with various monitoring systems and data acquisition devices.
  3. Response Time Adjustment: Select standard or fast-response versions based on actual monitoring requirements, balancing high-precision statistical analysis with real-time dynamic change capture.
  4. Installation Method Customization: Multiple mounting solutions—pole-mounted, bracket-mounted, base-mounted, or embedded structures—adapt to diverse field conditions for rapid deployment and stable fixation.
  5. Accuracy Grade Customization: Select standard or high-precision models based on project requirements, supporting both general engineering monitoring and research/laboratory-grade high-accuracy measurements.
  6. Appearance and Material Customization: Choose from various housing materials—corrosion-resistant, UV-resistant, high-temperature resistant, or reinforced structural designs—ensuring long-term stable operation in harsh outdoor environments.
Solar Radiation Sensors Pyranometers

pyranometer solar radiation sensors Manufacturer and Supplier

Yantai pyranometer solar radiation sensors specializes in the R&D and manufacturing of high-precision radiation sensors, committed to providing advanced environmental monitoring solutions for global customers. The company possesses an in-house R&D team, advanced production lines, and professional laboratories, having obtained multiple authoritative certifications including CNAS, CE, ISO, and RoHS. Our products are widely applied across multiple domains including sunlight, air, soil, and water, serving scenarios such as meteorological monitoring, agricultural research, and environmental protection. Additionally, we offer flexible customization solutions and system integration services to meet diverse customer requirements. Contact our professional team to access premium products and comprehensive technical support.

Certificates

We have CNAS, ISO, CE, and RoHS certifications, all weather monitoring systems meet rigorous international standards.

FAQs

What are pyranometers?

A pyranometer is an instrument used to measure the total intensity of shortwave solar radiation (wavelength approximately 0.3–3 μm). It is typically installed at weather stations, photovoltaic power plants, or scientific monitoring sites to collect data on the total solar radiation received at ground level.


In layman’s terms: A pyranometer is like a “solar energy meter” that tells you how strong the sunlight is at a given location.

What sensor is used in a pyranometer?

The pyranometer employs a thermopile sensor to convert absorbed solar radiation into electrical signals. The black-coated sensing surface heats up under sunlight, creating a temperature difference with the reference junction. This generates a voltage proportional to the intensity of solar radiation. The double-glazed dome and specialized coating enhance measurement accuracy by minimizing convective and infrared interference.

What is the difference between pyranometer and irradiance sensor?

Radiometers measure radiation intensity within specific wavelength ranges, such as ultraviolet or infrared light, while pyranometers specifically measure the total intensity of solar radiation. They are commonly used in meteorological monitoring, solar power generation, and other fields. Radiometers are suitable for a broader range of scientific research and industrial applications, whereas pyranometers focus on measuring solar radiation with higher precision and stability.

Are Pyranometer sensors suitable for extreme climate conditions?

Yes, our Pyranometers undergo rigorous testing to ensure stable operation under various extreme climatic and environmental conditions, including high temperatures, low temperatures, intense ultraviolet radiation, and high humidity. They provide accurate data for equipment in desert regions, polar areas, or humid environments.

How are Pyranometers installed and maintained?

Pyranometer sensors are easy to install and typically require placement in an unobstructed location to ensure accurate solar radiation reception. We provide detailed installation instructions and can offer customized installation solutions based on customer requirements. For maintenance, the sensor surface should be cleaned periodically, and the device should be inspected for any malfunctions. Our team also provides technical support to ensure long-term stable operation.

What is the accuracy of Radiation Sensors Pyranometers?

Our Radiation Sensors Pyranometers deliver high-precision radiation measurements, with accuracy grades selectable based on customer requirements. They support scientific research projects, industrial applications, and solar power generation monitoring.