Application, selection and rating of thermal imagers for construction

What can you use a thermal imager for?

In addition to special effects in science fiction films, the device finds the following applications:

• control of leakage of energy resources - since the heating of the conductors occurs with poor contact, the thermal imager makes it possible to easily identify this problem;
• assessment of thermal insulation properties of buildings under construction;
• as an alternative to a night vision device - to detect enemy manpower and equipment;

• for rescuers - to detect fires, search for people, possible exits from the premises and assess the situation;
• in medicine - to identify people with fever in a crowd and to identify pathologies of the body, including oncological foci;
• in metallurgy and mechanical engineering - to get an idea of ​​the heterogeneity of heating objects.

In addition to the above, the thermal imager finds application in astronomical telescopes, veterinary control and night driving systems. In a word, the range of its application is definitely not limited to hunting.

A bit of history

The man whose discoveries led to the creation of the thermal imager was Friedrich Wilhelm Herschel.

It was he who, back in 1800, took it into his head to measure the temperature of the primary colors of the visible part of the spectrum. Having placed the thermometers in blue, red and yellow rays, Herschel took measurements and found out that the temperature of different colors is different and increases from blue to red. Then the scientist moved the thermometer much beyond the red beam (into the dark zone) and got the highest measurement. Thus, he managed to discover the range of solar radiation invisible to the human eye, called infrared.

The impetus for the further development of thermal imaging technologies, as often happens, was research in the field of military equipment. As early as 1936, German anti-tank guns were equipped with infrared sights for firing at night. Tankers of the Red Army in the same year received similar products such as "Spike" and "Dudka", allowing tank columns to march at night.

The development of IR devices for observation, targeting and detection did not stop during the Second World War, and on both sides of the front line.

Opportunities in different conditions

Glass

IR radiation does not pass through glass, however heated glass will appear as a brighter area.

Heated glass is lighter

Water

IR radiation does not pass through water, in some cases through fog or drizzle.

Infrared radiation does not pass through water

Steam and Water Spray

IR radiation may or may not penetrate vapor, depending on its density.

For example, fog is not an obstacle for a thermal imager.

Atomized water jet and thermal imager operation

Detection of hot spots with a thermal imager

Identification of "hot spots"

Temperature sensor function

Some models of thermal imagers have a TT sensor function. The TT function colors the hottest areas with color. The hotter the area, the darker the tone (in the figure - in blue)

An example of using a thermal imager with a sensor in case of fire

An example of using a thermal imager with a TT sensor on a fire

The option of using a thermal imager on a fire

Using a thermal imager on a fire

FLIR One (Gen III) Android - survives a human-sized fall

A third-generation prefix that converts a smartphone via a USB-C connector into a thermal imager. Applied MSX technology, which allows you to combine the visible and thermal image with multi-stage detailing. This allows you to significantly reduce the likelihood of fortune-telling by recognizing the object of observation.

It provides for receiving information, storing processed data and transferring thermal or video recordings to an associated media. The device is designed with the calculation of the fall in the height of human growth without losing its integrity.

Pros:

• Convenient fastening to the smartphone, easy, compact.
• Nice, detailed picture.
• Temperature measurement in different areas.

Minuses:

• Small temperature measurement range.
• There is no focusing option.

ADA TEMPROVISION А00519

Main characteristics:

• Matrix resolution - 60 * 60
• Working temperature — -5+40°С
• Measurement range - from -20 to +300
• Automatic recognition of hot and cold spots - yes
• telephoto lens no

Matrix and visualization. The thermal imager is equipped with a 60x60 px matrix, which reads the image with a viewing angle of 20x20º. This is enough to examine objects from a distance of 5-10 m. The monitor has a pronounced gray gradation, which better details the colored areas. The spectral range of 8-14 microns gives the thermal imager ample opportunities to highlight locations with different shades, so it is easier for the operator to distinguish places with a different temperature.

An example of ADA TEMPROVISION A00519.

Functional. The thermal imager is able to automatically capture the coldest and hottest places in the building so that the operator can quickly navigate the situation. The device operates at a temperature of -5 degrees, so it is suitable for use in the winter on the street or in refrigerators to search for leaks. The temperature detection range is from -20 to +300º C, which also contributes to the use of both electronics and freezing equipment audits.

Control. The temperature change scale is located at the bottom, and not on the side, like most competitors. This made it possible to create a narrower screen, so the model is thinner than its counterparts. Management is carried out by four arrows on the menu and the start key, which looks very simple.

Advantages of ADA TEMPROVISION A00519

1. Light weight 310 g.
2. Auto power off to save battery after 12 minutes of inactivity.
3. A narrow viewing angle of 20x20º allows you to move away from the object at a distance of up to 10 m.
4. Pronounced grayscale for better image visibility.

Cons ADA TEMPROVISION A00519

1. There is no manual focus.
2. Error 2º C.

Additional features of thermal imagers

It should be noted that some models of thermal imaging equipment may have advanced features (video recording, Wi-Fi, compass, etc.), so the price of thermal imagers with the same matrix can vary greatly.

• With Wi-Fi, you can control the thermal imager via your smartphone. According to your mobile operating system, you will need a dedicated application. The image from the thermal imager will be transmitted to the phone display and some analysis and control functions are available to you.
• An electronic compass by coordinates specifies the location of the object under study, which subsequently simplifies the analysis of the data obtained.
• The video camera allows you to get a combined image - the imposition of a thermogram on a visible image.

Device for self-measurement: an overview of thermal imagers and which one is better to buy

For such purposes, you should not choose too expensive equipment. After all, it will have many functions that the home master will not use, which means that it makes no sense to overpay for them. But too cheap option is not suitable here. If the device costs less than 20,000 rubles, you should not pay attention to it. After all, low cost is a reason to think about whether the thermal imager will work longer than 10 minutes. or fail at the first press of the button.

Normal devices of the middle price category are devices costing from 50,000 rubles. up to 200,000 rubles, not counting additional lenses (if required).If we talk about professional thermal imagers with a wide range of functions, then you will have to pay more than half a million for them (the cost is indicated as of December 2018).

You can learn a little more about thermal imagers from the video below.

The use of thermal imagers in industry and construction

Thermal imagers are widely used in the chemical industry and metallurgy - areas of production in which high-temperature processes, complex cooling systems and units are often used. At each large facility, a thermal imager regularly conducts inspections of buildings, infrastructure and equipment. The device helps in solving many problems and allows, for example:

• carry out diagnostics of blast furnaces;
• thermal insulation of units;
• check tightness;
• dynamically control temperature changes in a chemical reactor.

An industrial thermal imager is always a portable device, usually made in the “pistol grip” format. The device of this type of thermal imager is designed for a relatively short working distance, but is equipped with a matrix with a high resolution and operates in a wide temperature range. Instruments of this class are designed for regular use and allow on-site detection of equipment problems by analyzing the thermal image on the instrument screen.

Thermal imaging devices are widely used in the energy sector, both in large enterprises and in the work of an electrician in a housing office. With their help, diagnostics of high-voltage lines and towers is carried out, both from the ground and from the air, and a thermal imager inspection of a transformer or electrical panel allows you to identify and quickly eliminate many malfunctions.

In the construction of buildings, the use of thermal imagers mainly boils down to finding weak spots in thermal insulation through the detection of points with temperature differences.

At first glance, surprisingly, the principle of operation of a thermal imager is often useful in road construction. As in many other cases, when laying asphalt pavement, temperature control is necessary: ​​each element - asphalt, resin, crushed stone - must be heated to a certain temperature. Only by controlling the temperature regime can the proper quality of the road surface be ensured. Unfortunately, in view of the relative novelty of the method and the cost of equipment, in Russia, thermal imaging diagnostics is used only during the construction of large highways. However, such diagnostics makes an undeniable contribution to their quality.

Bosch GTC 400 C in L-boxx

Main characteristics:

• Matrix resolution - 160 × 120
• Working temperature — -10+45°С
• Measurement range — from -10 to +400°С
• Automatic recognition of hot and cold spots - yes
• telephoto lens no

Matrix and visualization. The model is equipped with a 160x120 px matrix and is suitable for auditing heating and cooling systems and checking the health of electrical equipment. For quick detection of deviations, the thermal imager easily switches to the mode of a conventional camera, so that the operator accurately localizes the problem area. The 3.5-inch display is optimal for detailed viewing of the picture.

Functional. The device is able to automatically mark cold and hot spots. The waterproof housing allows operation in the rain, as well as use at temperatures down to -10º C. If the available screen is not enough, then the image can be transferred via USB to a computer.There is also a Wi-Fi module for this, which allows you to broadcast data to your phone, tablet or remote device. The maximum positive value for measurement at +400º C allows you to detect even the hottest spots that go beyond the sensitivity of other thermal imagers.

The ability to share the screen on another device.

Control. You can switch modes using 9 buttons located under the screen. Separately rendered key for photo thermal screening, to instantly create a picture of the area of ​​interest. The process is started by pressing the trigger located on the other side of the case.

Bosch GTC 400 C equipment in L-boxx.

Pros of Bosch GTC 400 C in L-boxx

1. The measuring device is entered in the state register and can be used for official audit.
2. Switching from a thermal imager to a conventional camera.
3. Sensitivity up to +400º С.
4. You can transfer data via Wi-Fi.

Cons of Bosch GTC 400 C in L-boxx

1. The error reaches 3 degrees.
2. Sold without verification certificate - it will have to be done separately.

Rules for using the thermal imager

The main task of a thermal imaging survey is to accurately identify heat losses and defects in the operation of engineering systems, as well as to detect possible weaknesses in a residential facility during the construction phase.

Thermal imaging diagnostics of buildings includes:

• examination in the long-wave infrared region of the spectrum in the range of 8-15 microns;
• building a temperature map of the objects and surfaces under study;
• monitoring of the dynamics of thermal processes;
• accurate calculation of heat flows.

The inspection of a residential facility is carried out both outside and inside the building.In the first case, infrared photography makes it possible to detect gross defects in the infiltration of air flows through the building envelope and defects in thermal insulation. In the second - to identify errors in the functioning of the heating system and the power supply network.

It is better to carry out thermal imaging diagnostics in the cold season, when the temperature difference between the street and the house is more than 10 degrees Celsius

The higher the temperature difference, the more accurate the test results. In addition, in order to obtain correct data, the surveyed residential object must be uninterruptedly heated for at least 2 days. In the summer, it is practically useless to inspect the building with a thermal imager due to the minimal temperature difference.

Building inspection thermal radiation receivers shows the distribution of temperature fields over the surfaces of objects or structures at a particular point in time. Therefore, shooting with an infrared camera is highly dependent on a number of conditions, the observance of which is critical for obtaining correct results.

The operation of the device is affected by strong wind, sun and rain. Under their influence, the house will cool or heat up, which means that the check can be considered ineffective. The examined structures and surfaces should not be in the area of ​​bright direct rays of the sun or reflected radiation for 10-12 hours before the start of thermal imaging diagnostics.

It is recommended to keep door and window blocks in a fixed position for 12 hours before shooting with an infrared camera and during the building inspection process.

Before starting a survey at home, it is necessary to set the basic settings on the device, namely:

• set the lower and upper temperature limits;
• adjust the range of thermal imaging;
• select the intensity level.

Other indicators are regulated depending on the type of thermal insulation, materials of walls and ceilings. The energy audit of a private house begins with checking the foundation, facade and roof of the building.

At this stage, it is very important to conduct a thorough diagnosis, since the areas on the same plane differ significantly and thermal radiation receivers will definitely show this. After checking the external part, they proceed to diagnostic measures inside the residential building

About 85% of all construction defects and malfunctions of engineering systems are detected here.

After checking the external part, they begin diagnostic measures inside the residential building. About 85% of all construction defects and malfunctions of engineering systems are detected here.

Shooting is carried out in the direction from the window blocks to the doors, slowly exploring all the technological openings and walls. At the same time, the doors between the rooms are left open to stabilize the flow of heated air and minimize the likelihood of measurement errors.

Thermal imaging control implies a step-by-step check of different zones of building envelopes, which must be open for shooting with an infrared camera. To do this, you need to free up window sill space, organize unhindered access to skirting boards and corners.

The walls during the internal thermography of the building must be freed from carpets and paintings, peeling off old wallpaper and other objects that prevent direct visibility of the object under study.

It is customary to rent houses equipped with heating radiators only from the outside.Diagnostics of facades is carried out under favorable weather conditions - the absence of wet fog, smoke, precipitation.

The best thermal imager for hunting

A simple thermal imager is used during night hunting - it allows you to detect traces and follow them to track down the victim. Monoculars are more functional - they can also be used as binoculars, there is a built-in compass and other additional functions.

RY-105

The series includes models RY-105A, RY-105B and RY-105. Designed for identification and detection of objects of animate and inanimate nature in the thermal infrared range. The main advantage is its compact size and the ability to operate with one hand using the shortcut key.

RY-105

Specifications:

• display palettes: hot white, hot black and hot red;
• magnification of the image by 4 times;
• protection class IP66;
• WiFi module;
• detection of a large object (person, animal) up to 420 meters by the RY-105A model and at a distance of more than a kilometer by the RY-105C;
• start only 8 seconds;
• automatic calibration;
• large viewing angle.

Pulsar Quantum Lite XQ30V

Sight with a stadiametric rangefinder, which allows to determine the distance to the observed objects with a known height with a sufficient degree of accuracy. Seven color palettes for image visualization. Among the color schemes are the standard (hot white, hot black) and a different combination of colors that highlight the hottest and coldest areas.

Pulsar Quantum Lite XQ30V

There are three calibration modes to choose from:

• silent manual mode ("M"),
• automatic ("A"),
• semi-automatic ("H").

Mode "A" implies calibration without user intervention: the process is initiated automatically.In "H" mode, the user decides whether calibration is required depending on the image quality. Manual calibration ("M") is performed by pressing the button while the lens cover is closed. The "M" mode is recommended for hunting due to its silent operation.

The body is made of fiberglass reinforced plastic with a rubber lining. The AMOLED display has a resolution of 640x480p, frost-resistant - it works without interference at -25 ° C. Convenient function of short-term shutdown of the screen - the device is working, and the hunter is disguised.

Pulsar Trail XQ38

TV sight for hunting, has a detection range of 1350 meters. The priority is increased shooting accuracy, thanks to the built-in accelerometer / gyroscope, the ability to save up to 500 aiming and sighting points and synchronization with mobile devices on Android and iOS platforms (Stream Vision). You can even live stream your hunt directly to YouTube.

Pulsar Trail XQ38

Among the entire arsenal of technology, the pulsar trail provides the most accurate and clear image, for which an uncooled microbolometric matrix 384x288px, 17 microns is responsible. You can enlarge the image by 8 times.

A very convenient "Picture in Picture" function, when an additional zone is displayed on the display with an enlarged image of the target and the aiming mark. This allows you to view the image in the aiming area in more detail. The additional zone is located on the display at the top center, above the aiming mark. Occupying only 1/10 of the total display area, the additional zone allows you to simultaneously use the full field of view of the sight for observation.

Pulsar Helion XQ38F

Night vision monocular designed for intensive use in real hunting and extreme tourism.The “heart” of the Pulsar Helion XQ38F monocular is an uncooled microbolometric matrix with a resolution of 384×288. The device allows you to detect a large animal at a distance of 1350 m.

Pulsar Helion XQ38F

The frame refresh rate in the Pulsar Helion XQ38F is 50 times per second, which gives the maximum image quality, regardless of the speed of the object under observation. All Helion monoculars have a high temperature sensitivity threshold and a level of water resistance - they can withstand being in water at a depth of up to one meter for 30 minutes.

What is very important is the new B-Pack power system: it is a replaceable high-capacity battery that lasts for 12 hours. To use the Helion pulsar as a stationary observation point, a remote control is provided

Rating

It is appropriate to start the review with thermal imager models for the Android mobile platform. A striking example is the Seek Thermal Compact. The manufacturer claims that its product is capable of tracking objects at a distance of up to 300 m. It is guaranteed to measure temperatures from -40 to 330 degrees. The possibility of infrared video filming is provided.

Thermal Reveal XR is designed for the same temperature range. This thermal imager is equipped with a 2.4-inch screen. The viewing angle is 20 inches. Considerable benefit to consumers can be provided by a flashlight that facilitates manipulation at night. Electricity is generated by a lithium-ion battery.

It is also useful to familiarize yourself with which models are included in the top professional thermal imagers. Fluke TiS75 deservedly got into this list, because this modification was even included in the state register of measuring instruments of the Russian Federation. Therefore, measurements made with the help of such a thermal imager can be safely presented as an argument in disputes with supervisory authorities.The device is able to measure the temperature in the range from -20 to +550 degrees. The thermal imager is configured quite flexibly, but it is powered only by branded batteries - others will not work.

The Testo 868 is also quite a good instrument. However, it is overly simple compared to the Fluke product just described. A considerable difference is also manifested in the image characteristics (the required resolution is “pulled out” only by the software algorithm), and in the ability to work with closely spaced objects (limited due to the fixed type of optics). Users note that working with this device is not inconvenient. The measurement range adjusts automatically to the situation.

What thermal imagers are

The principle of operation for any thermal imagers is the same - the devices recognize infrared radiation and reflect it in color. But at the same time, it is customary to distinguish several types of devices:

1. Observant. Most often, such devices operate in monochrome mode and determine not the intensity of IR radiation, but its very presence.
2. Measuring. Sensitive devices provide an image with many shades, each of which corresponds to a certain temperature.
3. High temperature. This is a special kind of measuring instruments with the ability to detect heating over 1200 °C.
4. Stationary. Quite cumbersome in design, devices are installed in industries to control technological processes.
5. Portable. The devices are compact and light in weight. In terms of power, they are usually inferior to stationary ones, but they can also demonstrate good sensitivity.

Important! The cost of a thermal imager directly depends on its measuring power.

10 Seek Thermal Reveal XR Camo

A good budget option for hunters who do not want to spend large amounts of money on an expensive thermal imager. The low cost affected the characteristics - they cannot be called the best. But even this model will help make hunting more productive and convenient. The device is compact, durable housing with rubber inserts prevents slipping out of the hands, protects against damage during falls and water ingress. The resolution of the LCD is only 320 x 240 pixels, but that's enough to get a decent picture. But it will be very problematic to follow a moving object, since the frame refresh rate is only 9 Hz.

But he also has positive aspects that even the most expensive models are deprived of - this is a very long battery life of up to 11 hours, fast turn-on in just three seconds and nine temperature display color schemes. An additional pleasant moment is the built-in flashlight with 300 lumens.

Device and characteristics

The design of most thermal imagers is limited by the presence of the following elements:

• Enclosure with controls such as buttons.

• Lens with protective cap and image focusing element.

The latter, in most cases, has the form of a rotary ring, as on cameras.

• Sensor (matrix).

• Display.

• Electronic system and software.

• Built-in memory.

• Matrix cooling system (for models with high sensitivity).

The main characteristics of the device:

• Viewing angle and range.

• Matrix parameters: resolution, temperature threshold, error, image clarity.

• Functionality: presence of backlight, laser pointer, possibility of digital zooming, presence and volume of built-in memory for storing measurement results, possibility of transferring data to a PC.

The following state standards apply to thermal imaging equipment:

• GOST R 8.619–2006 – methods for testing instruments.

• GOST 53466-2009 – technical requirements for medical thermal imagers.

Material

The body of most models of thermal cameras is made of impact-resistant plastic with rubber grips for easy holding, and is either waterproof or completely waterproof.

Cheap models, as a rule, do not have serious protection from the negative effects of the environment at all.

Lenses in most cases are made of germanium with a thin-film coating that optimizes light transmission.

Lenses made of this material work in the wavelength ranges of 3 - 5 and 8 - 14 microns.

Optical glass is not used due to its inability to transmit infrared radiation in the required range.

However, when working with the device, it should be taken into account that an increase in temperature affects the transparency of germanium.

If you increase the temperature to 100 °, this figure will fall by half from the original.

Dimensions and weight

The dimensions and weight of thermal imagers depend on their type, the number of additional functionality and equipment, as well as the size of the matrix and the presence of a cooling system.

So the dimensions of simple portable models are comparable to a camera, their weight starts from 500 - 600 g to 2 kg.

Protection class of thermal imagers

Almost all thermal imagers have a housing protected from negative factors, the degree of protection of which is determined by the international standard with the letters IP and two numbers.

The first number (from 0 to 6) indicates protection against foreign objects, and the second (from 0 to 9) indicates water resistance.

For example, a thermal imager with an IP67 class is completely protected from dust ingress and remains operational even after short-term immersion in water to a depth of 1 meter.

Resolution

The importance of the resolution of the infrared sensor lies in the degree of detail of the image:

• Base level: up to 160x120 pixels.

• Professional: 160x120 - 640x480 pixels.

• Expert class - more than 640x480 pixels.

Calibration, Verification and Accuracy

The measuring thermal imager, according to the standards adopted in metrology, is checked for operability at least once a year.

Verification includes the following steps:

• Inspection of the body of the device, its testing and verification in all modes of operation.

• Measurement of angular resolution.

• Checking the range of measured temperatures.

• Determination of the maximum temperature sensitivity and non-uniformity of sensitivity across the field.

• Determining the convergence of results.

Measuring thermal imagers must be periodically calibrated.

Modern models are equipped with a special curtain that moves over the matrix.

According to its known temperature, calibration is performed.

Modern matrices are made in the form of thermistors, have high resolution (up to hundredths of a degree).

The technical characteristics of measuring models must indicate the error (accuracy), which, as a rule, is within 2% or 2°.

Attachments to the phone

These miniature devices are directly connected to a smartphone and are used to identify areas with abnormal heating and so-called cold bridges, as well as to detect and identify objects in the dark.

Seek Thermal Compact PRO (for Android)

pros

• good infrared sensor
• chalcogenide lenses
• decent matrix
• robust magnesium alloy body

Minuses

• works normally only with smartphones on Android with a version of at least 4.3 and on IOS with a version of 7.0 or more
• high price

From 38 990 ₽

The Seek Thermal Imager Attachment will help you detect heat leaks, electrical wiring problems, as well as detect hidden utilities when searching for breakthroughs and eliminating the consequences of utility accidents. This device can be used during hunting (detects an animal at a distance of up to 550 meters) and for capturing thermal videos and photos.

Flir ONE Pro iOS

pros

• adjustable connector
• automatic mode for detecting defects and recognizing objects
• three modes of recording measurement results

Minuses

• only works with IOS devices
• significant measurement error

From 30 990 ₽

The revolutionary imaging technology of this instrument will help its owner to see much more detail when looking for microscopic cracks in pipes and cracks in doors and windows. The device in a matter of seconds will show places with high overheating, and will also help a person to see in fog, smoke and at night.

Seek Thermal Compact (for iOS)

pros

• robust case
• six modes of operation of the IR camera
• multiple shooting modes
• the weight

Minuses

• only for IOS phones
• not the best resolution

From 23 990 ₽

A very handy device. Just download the special application to your smartphone or tablet, and connect the device via the lightning connector. After that, the owner of the thermal imager can safely start searching for problem areas in the communal apartment, tracking down the animal or observing the life of animals in the wild (visibility range up to 300 meters), as well as take night walks and shoot unique videos and photos even in poor conditions. visibility.

Medical thermal imagers

Another important aspect of human activity has always been medicine. Thermal imagers are also used here. Our body temperature is an excellent indicator of overall health. A change in temperature, as you know, signals a malfunction in the body, which is why a thermometer is always put on the patient during the initial examination. But it should be understood that a conventional contact thermometer always measures the temperature in the same place. But in fact, body temperature is not uniform, and each organ has its own characteristic. The device of the thermal imager makes it possible to significantly deepen the temperature analysis of health

An examination with a human thermal imager helps to find the area of ​​inflammation with an accuracy of mm and determine, for example, a pathogenic process in one of the organs without the introduction of various probes or surgical intervention. Thus, the use of a thermal imager for diagnostics not only makes it possible to determine whether a patient is sick or healthy, but also to indicate the source of the problem with high accuracy and make a diagnosis.The main area of ​​application of such devices is the diagnosis of tumors and various problems with the circulatory system.

A modern medical thermal imager is, as a rule, a diagnostic system consisting of the radiation detector itself and a computer for fast processing of the received signal. One of the most important advantages of a medical thermal imager is its complete safety for the patient due to the absence of extraneous radiation, surgical intervention and - the principle of operation of a medical thermal imager is completely similar to that of other devices of this type