Thermal Imaging Cameras - Technology Explained and FAQ

What is a thermal imaging camera? Thermal imaging cameras or thermal imagers are devices, the thermal energy (heat) into visible light (colors) on an object or scene to scan. The image of the thermal imaging cameras produce is known as a thermogram and analyzed through a process called thermography.

How do they work? Virtually all objects emit thermal energy from its surface. Modern thermal imaging cameras use an open flame microbolometer detector to sense the heat. Microbolometers are from an array of pixels, each composed of a variety of different materials with a higher frequency, amorphous silicon and vanadium oxide. If the thermal energy emitted from an object, the pixels equipment, substantial change of electrical resistance heating strikes. This resistance can be measured and converted into a temperature value. A thermogram is then produced by assigning colors or tones on each of these temperature values.

What should I consider when purchasing a thermal imaging camera? There are many elements that contribute to the quality and cost of a thermal imaging camera. The two most important factors are the detector resolution and thermal sensitivity.
Detector resolution describes the number of pixels in the microbolometer array. The most common resolutions of 160x120 pixel detectors, 320x240 and 640x480. These values ​​represent the number of horizontal pixels by the number of vertical pixels of the matrix. 320x240 detector produces an image of the 76 800 pixels. Since each pixel is assigned a temperature, which also 76 800 data points on the temperature. Higher resolutions produce visibly clearer images (like digital cameras).

Thermal sensitivity is the smallest difference in the temperature of the device can recognize. A sensitivity of 0.05 ° C means that the camera can distinguish two surfaces, as measured by only five hundredths of a temperature difference.
What features can I expect to find in a thermal imaging camera? All leading mobile phone cameras to acquire images contained on a memory card, which are then transferred to a PC via the USB interface. Each camera includes software to analyze it to the user, the images and create a report. As with most electronic devices, there are certain characteristics or "outlets" that make a photo more attractive to a potential user of the other. Our comparison table thermal imaging shows differences (link here).  

Here are a few to see are:
Built-in digital camera field of vision and ability to lenses (telephoto, wide angle, close-up) video output to another device like a computer, TV or projector to. The LCD size imager frame rate (how quickly update the image, 60 Hz = 60 updates per second) touch-screen capability lens capability, automatic or manual way to add focus design notes voice / text Robust and ergonomic makes thermal imaging cameras and infrared cameras ? We have three major manufacturers of thermal imaging cameras and infrared cameras, FLIR, Fluke and Testo. Each manufacturer offers a different design and functionality that best suits your application.

FLIR thermal imaging camera has been in business for over 30 years. During the first 20 years, the cameras, especially in government and military applications, including aircraft, ships, and law enforcement are used. As the cost has decreased for the production in recent years, FLIR has had cameras for a wide range of applications in a variety of different offering prices.

Fluke was the design and manufacture of test and measuring instruments since 1948. Fluke is known for its reliability and ruggedness for industrial use and more difficult known. All Fluke thermal imaging cameras are manufactured in the United States.
Testo has a strong presence in the CVC, including combustion analyzers, anemometers, and the moisture of the product. Their cameras offer excellent value and good performance in a variety of different applications.

How can I get my infrared camera? Now, where do you work a brief understanding of the thermal imaging cameras and what to look for, we are some common applications.
Home inspection and verification of thermal imaging cameras can be used to analyze the building heat loss, moisture and other costly failures. Image for the construction of the inspection demand is generally not used, extended temperature range, but requires thermal sensitivity. Pictures, the good choice for these applications, the FLIR i7 E30bx, E40bx, E50bx, E60bx, T300, T TiR1 Fluke TIR TiR32 and Testo 875-2i, 881-1.

The electrical and mechanical inspections, thermal imaging camera images are ideal for preventive maintenance of electrical and mechanical equipment. Excessive wear and tear, overloading and defective parts can heat all visible on the camera image. High resolution, wide temperature range and high sensitivity for these applications. Cameras in order to better adapt the mechanical and electrical tests Flir E30, E40, E50, E60, T300, T620, Fluke Ti10, Ti25, Ti32 and testo 875-1i, 875-2i, 881-1.

Research and development of heat is often a limitation in the development processes of all kinds. Thermal imaging cameras can help in the production of systems and products, and possible problem areas. The high resolution is a must for those applications that are Flir E60, T300, T620 Fluke Ti32 and a good choice.

Veterinary and high-resolution images are able to provide an overview of diseases in humans and animals. Injuries and diseases are often an additional blood flow to the affected areas. This river of blood, if it generates enough heat close to the skin detected by thermal imaging cameras. The cameras should be considered for these applications, the FLIR E60, T300, T620 and Fluke Ti32 are.

There are many applications for infrared cameras, which are not discovered yet. Please do not hesitate to ask what the cameras can help with your application to ask.
As with all products we sell, we ask you to call us and speak to one of our engineers. We currently have two Level II certified thermographer who are willing to discuss your application and help you get the best camera for your needs are.