Thermal imaging systems are designed to visualize the thermal picture of terrain or an object at which the thermal imager camera screen is directed. Systems form an image due to the temperature difference on the surface of objects. The operator sees a color or monochrome volumetric image of objects, depending on the camera settings or preferences. As a rule, colder objects are displayed in blue-green colors and hotter ones in yellow-red colors. Thermal imagers can be conditionally divided into several groups. The first group includes surveillance systems. The second is measuring systems. They are faced with different tasks. They work with different accuracy, viewing angles, and measuring ranges. In terms of the range of operating waves, thermal imaging equipment can be divided into devices operating with short, medium, and long waves. Every object above absolute zero emits heat or infrared waves, which are recorded by thermal imaging systems. For accuracy of measurements, the equipment operates in its small, specified range. In terms of development time and technology, all equipment can be divided into three generations. The selection of thermal imaging systems is strictly individual and requires careful study.
Pros and cons of Infrared Thermographic Systems
Advantages of infrared thermographic systems.
The most important quality of work of thermal imagers is work in extreme weather conditions, at any time of the year. Snow, sandstorm, smoke, bright sun with glare from water or snow, fog will not interfere with the operation of the thermal imager. Infrared systems do an excellent job at night or in poor visibility conditions. One of the advantages is the use of thermographic systems for non-destructive control methods. For measurements, you do not need to touch the surface of the object. From the point of view of medicine, thermal infrared systems are the gentlest to human health. They are not invasive, do not irradiate patients like X-ray or MRI, and can be recommended even for children and frail older adults. The advantage is the clarity of the image. We see the picture in real-time. This is the best way to convince your actions. Modern thermographic systems are evolving towards compactness, portability, and lightweight. Now gadgets are small, easy to carry, store and install. All systems are equipped with built-in or external memory. It is possible to record and transfer data to a smartphone, tablet, or computer for further processing and systematization.
Cons of infrared thermographic systems
While having undeniable advantages, infrared systems have several disadvantages. Let us point out the problem of identifying objects in the summer, with a significant increase in temperature in open spaces. Stones, concrete walls are scorching by the sun and take a long time to cool down. The thermograph detects them as warm and highlights them in color typical of hot or living objects. It is possible to distinguish a living object from an inanimate object only by its outlines and movement. Thermographs are not all-seeing. Any reflective materials can interfere with the study—for example, a mirror, glass, water surface, foil. Infrared scanners will not see a person behind a concrete wall. Among the shortcomings, it can be noted that the image on the screen is devoid of detail. You can see a person, understand his height, gender, approximately what he is wearing, but his facial features are not visible. The disadvantage is the adjustment of the systems to the ambient temperature. Some systems require a blackbody test calibration.
Using the Thermal Imaging System
A thermal imager is indispensable for auditing heat leaks, water leaks, cooling components of split systems, power supply faults. There is no need to destroy floors or ceilings for this. The device literally “sees” defects through walls. Of course, this allows you to notice faults before the destruction of structures occurs. This significantly saves money during construction and renovation. Thermal imagers are widely used by all power structures, rescuers, firefighters, hunters. Infrared systems are used in monitoring systems for buildings and structures. They perfectly serve for navigation of ships, airplanes, vehicles. Thermal imagers are widely used for melting temperature control in heavy industry and scientific research. In everyday life, it is applicable for thermometry and cooking. In medicine, it is used to diagnose several diseases. Naturalists, rangers, and veterinarians are used to monitor and treat animals.
As you can see, the scope of application is extensive. Infrared systems have long been a part of our daily life. In the future, the demand for infrared systems of all kinds will grow rapidly. Everyone wants to get a reliable, simple, versatile, safe, high-tech gadget to solve their urgent tasks successfully.
