With the ability to detect heat radiated by any object or living creature, a thermal imaging camera is a very advantageous piece of technology, which has proven to be vital for various businesses and industries.
But what are they suitable for and how can they be utilised? Well, here are 10 uses for a thermal imaging camera.
- Industrial applications
Due to the complex nature of most industrial machinery and their working environments, finding and identifying any faults or problems is crucial. But thermal imaging is on hand to locate hot spots, which can lead to electrical and mechanical installation failures. On top of that, a thermal camera can detect anomalies quickly, which reduces downtime, repairs and overheads.
- Construction sites
It is incredibly difficult for builders, contractors, tradespeople and site managers to detect things like insulation losses and other related defects. However, a thermal imaging camera can perform this duty, improving efficiency for both the construction project and the eventual home or property owner.
- Research and development
High performance thermal imaging cameras can be of great benefit to both applied and fundamental research and development. For example, it can help improve and speed up the design cycle of new products, enabling them to go to market quickly.
- Border security
For countries with sensitive or fragile economies, thermal imaging can boost border security by detecting illegal materials and substances. It can also protect against smugglers and intruders, as thermal imaging cameras are able to see figures at a distance of 20 kilometres away in complete darkness.
- Commercial security
In places like airports, warehouses, industrial estates and even nuclear facilities, thermal imaging can improve commercial security by identifying intruders or trespassers more effectively than traditional CCTV.
- Maritime applications
In addition to assisting nighttime navigation, thermal imaging can also help with ship security, man-overboard situations and anti-piracy. Therefore, they are suitable for both private yachts and commercial vessels.
- Law enforcement
Despite the fact thermal imaging has been used for quite some time by police helicopters, advances in technology mean that smaller cameras are now available for bobbies on the beat and patrol vehicles. What’s more, officers won’t be seen while trying to locate suspects in total darkness.
- Fire fighting
Although fire has the potential to tear down buildings, smoke is often a bigger threat. Not only when it comes to personal safety, but also finding victims in a smoke filled room and making sure fires are well extinguished. Thankfully, thermal imaging cameras overcome these problems and can even save lives.
- Automation
In work settings where people are not present or required, thermal imaging can help monitor production processes and ensure problems are identified quickly. This measure can increase efficiency and prevent downtime too.
- Medical and veterinary applications
From screening for breast cancer to identifying circulation and musculoskeletal problems, thermal imaging has a range of medical and veterinary applications. It can help protect, detect and prevent illnesses without physical contact or intruding personal privacy as well.
For information about thermal imaging cameras and training, get in touch with Instrotech, a leading supplier and distributor of various electrical equipment.
