Thermal Cameras

 

Thermal Cameras

Unlike other cameras, thermal cameras make use of radiations, specifically infrared radiation, to form images, and the process is called thermography. The wavelength between 1um to 14um is normally used in the filming. Early thermal cameras were slow with low accuracy and were initially used by Britain military for defense purposes. The principle working mechanism is related to the temperature of the body. The higher the temperature of the body, the more radiation it emits as black body radiation.

The Uniqueness Of Thermal Cameras:

·         One huge advantage of this technology is that the ambient temperature does not affect thermal cameras' operation and can even be used in darkness.

·         Due to the large wavelength, the normal glass lens is not used, and special materials like germanium and calcium fluoride crystals are used.

·         Thermal cameras only capture the monochrome light and can’t differentiate between multiple wavelengths; the change of colors we see in the images is just the monochrome light subject to pseudo-color, which determines the intensity.

·         The difference in temperature and high-intensity spots can easily be detected due to the reception sensors' sensitive nature.

Use Of Thermal Cameras In Electrical Field:

Overloaded Component Inspection

Thermal cameras are used to monitor sensitive equipment's performance since excessive heat is generated when a component surpasses its normal operating level. Due to the sensitive nature to detect even small heat spots, thermal cameras are implanted to determine the changes in heat and thus detect and prevent any damage.

Surface Temperature Monitor

Underground cables and insulations hidden behind walls can be easily monitored using the heat signatures. In case of any faults, the difference in heat signatures can be seen on the device.

Surveillance For High Voltage Equipment

High voltage equipment usually develops oxidation corrosion at joints and needs occasional maintenance; these contact points can be monitored for exposed flaws.

Some other uses in general of the Thermal cameras include the following:

·         Electrical Wiring Maintenance

·         Checking 3-Phase Equipment

·         First Responders

·         Security

·         Animal Health

·         Mechanical Installations

·         Gas Detection