XF-CT10 Pyrheliometer Optical Tube for Direct Solar Radiation Measurement
The XF-CT10 pyrheliometer optical tube for direct solar radiation measurement is designed to measure radiation perpendicular to the solar surface and scattered radiation from a narrow band of sky surrounding the sun. It features automatic sun-tracking and monitors direct solar radiation levels, and is powered by a 12V DC voltage. This optical tube is widely used in photovoltaic power plants, meteorological observations, solar resource assessments, and scientific research experiments to obtain accurate direct solar radiation data.
- Sensitivity: 5–15 μV/m²
- Response time: <25 s (99%)
- Internal resistance: approx. 100 Ω
- Tracking accuracy: less than ±1° over 24 hours
- Field of view: 4°
- Annual stability: ±1% (change in sensitivity over one year)
- Operating temperature range: ±45°C
Price: $285
Введение
The XF-CT10 pyrheliometer optical tube is designed to measure direct radiation and diffuse radiation from the sun, and features automatic sun-tracking capability. The interior of the optical tube is designed with multiple optical barriers, quartz glass, and a thermopile, which minimize the effects of reflection and atmospheric turbulence while accurately detecting solar radiation intensity. The thermopile converts light energy into an electrical signal proportional to the radiation intensity. The automatic tracking mechanism is driven by a high-precision DC stepper motor, enabling precise adjustment of the solar angle for continuous, all-weather measurement.
Structure pyrheliometer optical tube
- Light Tube Body – Supports and protects the instrument, maintaining a dry internal environment.
- Light Screen (7 layers) – Reduces reflections and air turbulence, defining the measurement aperture.
- Inner Tube – Seals off the air between the light screen and the outer tube, minimizing temperature interference.
- Quartz Glass Plate (JGS3) – Transmits direct solar radiation with wavelengths of 0.3–3 μm.
- Thermopile Sensor Assembly – A fast-response, wire-wound, multi-junction thermopile. The side facing the sun is coated with black paint to form a hot junction, creating a temperature difference with the cold junction on the opposite side. This generates a thermoelectric voltage that converts solar energy into an electrical signal, which is proportional to the radiation intensity.
- Desiccant Cartridge – Prevents moisture condensation inside the optical tube.
- Automatic Tracking System – Includes a base plate, azimuth mount, motor, slip ring, worm gearbox, and motor controller. It drives a microcontroller-controlled DC stepper motor to adjust the solar elevation angle, enabling precise automatic tracking.

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Detailed views from different angles help you fully understand the structure and performance of the direct solar radiation measurement. Below is a detailed overview for the pyrheliometer optical tube:
Installation and Maintenance
The installation site for the direct-reading radiometer must ensure that direct sunlight is unobstructed at all times of the year and throughout the day (from sunrise to sunset). If there are obstacles in the direction of sunrise or sunset, their elevation angle must not exceed 5°. Additionally, the site should be located as far as possible from areas with severe atmospheric pollution, such as smoke or fog. Typically, it can be installed within an observation field alongside other radiometers. If conditions do not permit this, it may also be installed on a rooftop platform.
The direct-reading instrument must be mounted on a dedicated stand, with the stand surface made of steel plate or concrete. The base dimensions should be at least 300 × 400 mm. The stand must be securely installed so that the instrument remains level even under severe impacts or vibrations (such as strong winds).
The tracking accuracy of the direct-reading instrument is closely related to the correctness of its installation. During installation, the latitude angle must be adjusted, the instrument must be aligned with the north-south direction, leveled, and calibrated for solar declination and time.
Технические характеристики
Main parameters cover sensitivity, response time, internal resistance, tracking accuracy, aperture angle, long-term stability, and operating conditions. Below are the pyrheliometer optical tube specifications:
Параметры
| Sensitivity | 5–15 μV/m² |
| Время отклика | <25 s (99%) |
| Internal Resistance | Approx. 100 Ω |
| Tracking Accuracy | Less than ±1° over 24 hours |
| Field of View | 4° |
| Annual Stability | ±1% (change in sensitivity over one year) |
| Рабочая температура | ±45°C |
| Power Supply Voltage | 12 V DC |
| Weight | 5 kg |
Features pyrheliometer optical tube
High Sensitivity
Accurately detects changes in solar radiation and provides stable, reliable data.
Fast Response
Responds quickly to reflect changes in radiation intensity in real time.
Precise Tracking
Automatically tracks the sun’s position to ensure accurate measurement angles.
Stable Structure
Features a multi-layer optical barrier design to reduce interference and enhance measurement accuracy.
Long-Term Stability
Offers high annual stability, making it suitable for long-term continuous monitoring.
Environmental Adaptability
Designed for stable operation under a variety of climatic conditions.
Applications pyrheliometer sensor
The pyrheliometer optical tube accurately measures direct solar radiation and is widely used in photovoltaic power generation, meteorological observations, solar resource assessments, and scientific research, providing reliable data for efficient energy management and environmental monitoring. Below are specific applications for the pyrheliometer sensor:

Photovoltaic Power Plants
Accurately monitor direct solar radiation to optimize module layout and cleaning maintenance, thereby improving power generation efficiency.

Meteorological Observations
Provide high-precision radiation data to support weather forecasting and climate research.

Solar Resource Assessment
Assist research institutions and enterprises in evaluating solar resource potential and guide the design of photovoltaic projects.

Scientific Research and Experiments
Support experiments in optics, energy, and environmental sciences by providing stable and reliable radiation measurement data.

Smart Energy Management Systems
Integrates with smart monitoring systems to optimize energy efficiency management for photovoltaic and solar applications.

Environmental Monitoring and Pollution Analysis
Monitors the impact of atmospheric and environmental conditions on solar radiation, supporting environmental protection and sustainable development research.
custom pyrheliometer optical tube
We offer flexible customization options for the pyrheliometer optical tube to meet different solar radiation measurement requirements, ensuring optimal performance across various applications and environments.
Customization Options
- Signal Output:
Support for multiple output types to match different data acquisition systems. - Power Supply:
Customizable voltage options for various installation and power conditions. - Mounting Design:
Flexible mounting solutions for easy integration into different platforms. - Tracking System:
Optional configurations for enhanced solar tracking accuracy. - Охрана окружающей среды:
Upgraded sealing and materials for harsh outdoor environments. - System Integration:
Compatible with photovoltaic monitoring and meteorological systems.

Pyrheliometer Optical Tube Производитель и поставщик
Yantai Sensor is a professional manufacturer and supplier of pyrheliometer optical tubes, specializing in high-precision solutions for direct solar radiation measurement and solar irradiance monitoring. Our products are designed to deliver accurate and stable data for photovoltaic power plants, meteorological observation, and solar energy resource assessment, ensuring reliable performance in demanding outdoor environments.
With strong in-house R&D capabilities, advanced manufacturing facilities, and dedicated environmental testing laboratories, each pyrheliometer sensor undergoes rigorous quality control, including temperature, humidity, and long-term stability testing. We hold CE, ISO, and RoHS certifications and offer flexible OEM/ODM services as a trusted high-precision pyrheliometer sensor supplier. Our professional technical team provides customized решения to meet your project needs—contact us for tailored support.
Сертификаты
We have CNAS, ISO, CE, and RoHS certifications, and all weather monitoring systems meet rigorous international standards.




































