Measuring Equipments

Dial food Thermometers come in several types and style, and vary in level of technology and price.
 

Bimetallic-coil thermometers

These thermometers contain a coil in the probe made of two different metals that are bonded together. The two metals have different rates of expansion. The coil, which is connected to the temperature indicator, expands when heated. This food thermometer senses temperature from its tip and up the stem for 2 to 2 1/2 inches. The resulting temperatures is an average of the temperatures along the sensing area. These food thermometers have a dial display and are available as "oven-safe" and "instant-read."

"Oven-safe" Bimetallic-coil Thermometers

The temperature-sensing coil on the stem is between 2 to 2 1/2 inches long and the stem is relatively thick, heat conducts along the stem's metal surface faster than through the food.

Speed
This thermometers can take as long as 1 - 2 minutes to register the correct temperature.

Placement
2 - 2 1/2" deep in the thickest part of the food.

Usage Consideration

• Can be used in large item and thick foods such as a beef roasts or turkey or deep foods (foods in a stockpot) such as casseroles, and soups.

• Not appropriate for thin foods less than 3 inches thick.

• Can remain in food while it's cooking

• Heat conduction of metal stem can cause false high reading.

• Some models can be calibrated; check manufacturer's instructions.

"Instant Read" Bimetallic-coil Thermometers

Speed
This food thermometer quickly measures the temperature of a food in about 15 to 20 seconds.

Placement
2 - 2 1/2" deep in the thickest part of the food.

Usage Consideration

• Can be used in large item and thick foods such as a beef roasts or turkey or deep foods (foods in a stockpot) such as casseroles, and soups.

• Temperature is averaged along probe, from tip to 2 - 3 " up the stem.

• Cannot measure thin foods unless inserted sideways.

• Not designed to remain in food while it's cooking

• Check internal temperature of food near the end of cooking time.

• Some models can be calibrated; check manufacturer's instructions.

• Available in "Kitchen" stores.

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