Thermal imaging cameras can be used in many ways, such as with building defects and services or in the monitoring of complex industry processes. Where the human eye may be unable to spot an error, the camera measures the infrared radiation that an object emits and transforms this into electronic signals. The more warmth an image point emits, the more intensive the infrared radiation gets. In the imaging process, the temperature of the single image point is depicted by means of spectral colours on the iron-paint-spectrum.
Stationary versus mobile thermography
Depending on the field of application, stationary or mobile thermal imaging cameras are used. Stationary devices are used industrially for material testing and process optimisation. The need to examine even the smallest of fields, (through microthermography), portable thermal imaging cameras are used in areas such as building thermography or medicine.
Selecting a suitable thermal imaging camera
There is an initial investment cost with thermal imaging cameras; however they begin to save you money within a very short time span.
Using a thermal imaging camera can identify existing weaknesses of a building before a property purchase. Likewise, thanks to thermography, it is possible to pinpoint an error exactly with an electronic wire, meaning it can be fixed with a minimally invasive procedure, without having to prise open the whole wall.
In order to find the right camera for your needs, we recommend you research different models. Here at reichelt electronic, we’re big fans of FLIR thermal imaging cameras, due to theIR supreme quality. In the following, we introduce our comprehensive product range.
The FLIR TG130: an ideal model for beginners
Due to its excellent price to performance ratio, the FLIR TG130 is a great camera for those getting started with thermal imaging technology.
It allows you to detect flaws in underfloor heating, uneaven air flows, water damage or weak points in heat isolation. Reviewing electronic connections, switches or devices is easy with the FLIR TG130.
An additional plus point is that it is handily-sized at only 169mm x 113mm x 48mm, with a weight of 210g.
The FLIR TG165 thermal image pyrometer: suitable from beginner to expert
Thanks to its easy handling, the FLIR TG165 is suitable for thermography starters but also offers a comprehensive set of functions that are essential for professionals too.
The integrated FLIR Lepton® micro thermal image sensor makes it possible to precisely locate and target heat sources or cold spots.
The FLIR TG165 thermal image pyrometer can be used in all areas of building technology. Data and images can be saved for later documentation or extracted via USB or microSD memory card.
Despite the variety of integrated functions, the FLIR TG165 remains particularly compact at 186mm x 55mm x 94mmm, weighing 312g.
The FLIR E4: the ultimate test and measurement device
The FLIR E4 clearly displays the cause and extent of a problem, thanks to dramatic MSX thermal images.
Whether high humidity, overheated wires, poor insulation or construction defects; within a short period of time, a diagnosis can be made and action for damage limitation can be taken.
For a holistic representation, two images are generated via MSX® thermal image optimisation – one with the integrated digital camera and one with the thermal imaging camera – and put on top of each other.
Generated images can be saved and reviewed on their own or in combination. Weighing only 575g, the technology-loaded FLIR E4 is, despite extensive functions, lightweight. It can be conveniently and efficiently used even with protective gloves on, thanks to its one-button remote.
The FLIR ETS320: great for industry and lab work
When testing the temperature of PCB boards and laboratory electronics, high levels of diligence is needed. This is where the FLIR ETS320 comes into its own.
With product tests, both in research and development and in the testing of electronic circuit boards and devices, this desktop thermal camera enables data collection and analysis within seconds.
Duration of testing is drastically reduced, yet measurement accuracy remains impressive. The taken images (radiometric image recording as JPEGs) are shown in the highest resolution on the 3 inch LCD display.
Subsequently, the collected data can effortlessly be transferred to the PC via USB and analysed via the FLIR Tools+ Software.
The FLIR C2: a highly functional thermal imaging camera, pocket sized
The key feature of this thermal imaging camera is definitely its compact size and low weight. At only 125mm x 80mm x 24mm, and just 130 g, it is guaranteed to fit into any pocket. Always close at hand, it can be used spontaneously at any time.
Particularly for people working in construction, it is great to have a handy, compact helper able to spot construction shortages, hot spots, lost energy, HVAC problems, afflicted pipes or other faults.
Despite its mini format, the FLIR C2 still has MSX® thermal image optimisation. Thus, it can merge digitally recorded images with infrared pictures for an even more detailed depiction.
The sensible thermal image detector, which recognises even the smallest of differences in temperature, plus an extra large display, guarantee a comprehensive picture of arising problems at the construction site.
The FLIR MR160: a unique thermal image moisture tester
The FLIR MR160 is the world’s first – and so far, only – measuring device that records high quality thermal images as well as measure humidity levels (if applicable).
The high-tech camera doesn’t only highlight cold spots likely to foster humidity issues, but simultaneously measures, with its pinless micro sensor, if an area is humid. For a detailed image, the collected data is transferred onto the thermal image and saved collectively.
On the computer, this data can be analysed by means of FLIR tools software and summarised in a detailed report, to give to customers if necessary.
As with every other FLIR thermal imaging camera, this model is robust and handy, meaning the device can easily be taken anywhere.
