Thermal imaging camera

Ordinary cameras form an image by means of visible light whereas thermal cameras form an image by means of infrared radiation. The latter are also known as simply infrared cameras or as FLIR (Forward Looking Infrared). These type of cameras operate in wavelengths of approximately 14,000 nm (14 µm) while visible light cameras are in the range of 450-750 nm.

Increasing applications of thermal cameras are mostly in high value site protection, force protection, coastal surveillance, asset surveillance, urban surveillance and security applications such as border security, industrial security, perimeter security, deployable security, post security and airport security. Thermal cameras operate by converting the thermal energy released from an object into an image visible to human eyesight. This image is in a form of heat illustration which is displayed as a thermograph.

Thermal cameras are, to the great extent, expensive than visible-spectrum cameras; because it involves process of capturing heat from an object, which is definitely invisible to the human eye, and transforming it into an evident image. Light is not a must in this process, in fact it can completely operates either in bright light or dark environment. These cameras even provide additional vision within the infrared spectrum which, as a result widens the image that can be seen. Therefore, thermal cameras actually display the distinctions of objects seen in terms of thermal temperature. These cameras are also very useful in identifying and interpreting emissions as well as give users sensible images even in surroundings with low visibility and even in complete darkness.

The two major types of thermal cameras are namely Un-cooled and Cryogenically cooled. The infrared-detector elements of the Un-cooled type are generally used in applications that operate at room temperature. This type of camera activates instantly, has a built-in battery and does not generate noise.

On the other hand, Cryogenically cooled types of thermal cameras are very expensive and more susceptible to damage if roughly used. The infrared-detector elements of these types are enclosed in a section with below 0°C (32° F) temperature. Its superior resolution and sensitivity are very helpful in detecting the difference of as small as 0.1°C (0.2° F) from more than 300 meters (1,000 ft) away, which is enough to tell if a person is holding a gun from afar.

Thermal imaging camera components

Thermal imaging camera is composed of basically five major components namely, optic system, detector, amplifier, signal processing and display. Special thermal imaging cameras intended for fire-service integrate these components in a ruggedized, heat-resistant and waterproof chassis. These components work collectively to scan infrared radiations, examples of which are heat released by objects and flames, and then instantaneously convert it into a visible light image. Meanwhile, the camera-display shows the output differentials of the infrared, hence any objects with the same temperature will be viewed as the same color. Several thermal imaging cameras make use of grayscale to correspond to objects with normal temperatures, however highlight hazardous hot areas in different colors.

Thermal imaging cameras can either be handheld or helmet-mounted. Handheld cameras require only one hand to operate and position therefore allowing the other free hand to do other tasks, and can also be easily hand-over to other users especially for firefighters. Thus the commonly used thermal imaging cameras in the field of fire service are handheld models.

The leading government agency in developing performance standards for fire service thermal imaging cameras in United States is the National Institute of Standards and Technology Fire Research Division; however U.S. Army Night Vision Laboratory also made contributions to this agenda. Some of the initial recommendations from the team are visible low-battery warnings, ability to provide meaningful visual readouts beyond 2,000°F (~1,100°C) and ability to withstand full immersion in water.

Infrared thermal imaging for detecting Electrical and Mechanical faults

Thermal imaging can be applied to examine the transfer of infrared heat radiation from an object which, as a result gives way to identify thermal emissions of different surfaces, and displays a visual representation of temperature variations. Although this type of application could possibly presents potential problem areas thus needs to be addressed properly to improve the safety and efficiency of electrical equipments, building structures and other apparatus'. Some of the many applications of infrared scanning are objects such as transformers, electrical switchboards, transmission lines, circuit breakers, fuses, and switches. Through scanning of such objects it will be possible to lessen the chances of risks and therefore lesser insurance premiums. The utmost advantage of thermal image detection though is that it allows maintenance personnel to identify the faulty area before it even becomes a problem.

Thermal imaging scope in the construction industry

Problems usually occur if difference in temperatures exists in the surface. Anomalies, or thermal patterns, can imply water damage (e. g. presence of molds), missing insulation, energy loss, electrical and duct work problems. One of the important services rendered to homeowners and Realtors are Home Warranty inspections. Through thermal scanning, construction defects which are not visible to human eyesight can be seen. It is the liability of the home builders to fix hidden construction defects in their housing projects, and it was even more emphasized in the new home warranty agreement; but in most cases homeowners are not aware of this fact. More and more contemporary homes and commercial buildings are being scanned for insurance underwriting purposes. Thermal scanning is a very helpful device to detect possible problems in building equipments, electrical services and appliances as well as the building structure itself.

1 . They are NON-contact/NON-destructive - It means that the process is completely hands off and there is no defect or damage in the building itself and its components.

2. Thermal scans are two dimensional – Images are captured, objects are measured and compared and areas with defects are identified. Thermal photographs are taken and even have video for analysis.

3. Thermal scans are real time – This process enables a flash scanning of non-moving and dynamic objects and gives an immediate analysis of the thermal patterns. A modern Infrared Camera used by Trained Certified Thermographer can be used to find water problems, energy loss areas and overheated equipment before homeowners moved in which, in effect saved them from thousands of dollars.

Thermal imaging camera cost

Thermal imaging cameras usually come at around $3000. This type of model is being used by a large number of professionals. Of course for more additional features means additional costs hence become much more expensive.