Thermal Imager Cameras

A thermal imaging camera measures the radiation coming off of an object and displays it as a visual array of temperature readings. Thermal or IR cameras are becoming very popular diagnostic tools for many industries as many objects in these fields are subject to temperature changes.

HVAC heating or cooling service technicians, electricians, home inspectors, facility managers, industrial production specialists, and even research scientists are using thermal cameras.  Let’s discuss some simple examples of thermal imager usage:

1. The flow of electric current generates heat. Conductors and breakers have a certain temperature tolerance.  Electric service technicians can use cameras to scan a breaker panel for any possible overheating as a part of regular preventive maintenance.

2. Production lines usually have long conveyer belts propelled by electrical motors. A maintenance tech can use a thermal camera to see overheating motors or problems with bearings, as their temperature would increase when malfunctioning.

3. A home inspector inspects building insulation.  He scans walls and windows and can use a thermal camera to see cold spots, where insulation material is missing, as cold air gets in during the Winter. 

What are important selection criteria, when you choose thermal camera?

1. Screen size for better image viewing

2. Resolution – the higher it is, the better the picture quality.

3. Thermal sensitivity – the lower the number is, the more sensitive the instrument is to temperature changes.

4. Frequency – the higher frequency, the faster the picture adjusts when moving from one object to another.

5. Temperature range – since industrial or electrical applications may require a higher range than those related to building inspection.

6. Bluetooth and wireless features to determine if you can stream inspections to mobile devices and/or transfer data files.

7. Reporting features to adequately process inspection results.

8. Warranty – length and coverage.

Each professional has to meet a different set of requirements, so careful consideration is needed.  We have certified thermal imaging specialists at Value Testers and we will be happy to help you select the best instrument for your needs.

Please call us at 602-795-8292, chat with us online, or send your questions to [email protected]

Valuetesters.com is an authorized distributor of several manufacturers that make thermal cameras: AEMC, Amprobe, Flir, Fluke, Mastercool and Testo.