Breaking down cost barriers to IR
Published: 01 March, 2010
Breaking down cost barriers to IR
Flir Systems has introduced two more camera models to what is now known as its compact i-Series. This range now comprises three models.
The market for portable infrared inspection is growing across all industrial sectors as companies recognise its ability to generate significant cost savings. As an integral part of a predictive maintenance and energy management programme thermography seeks out electrical and mechanical faults. It minimises downtime, improves process efficiency and helps to improve product quality. The new Flir i40 and i60 thermal imaging cameras are ideal this purpose. They weigh just 600g but are designed for tough on-site and field conditions. Priced from £3995, they represent value for money and promise speedy payback.
These cameras share many features with the more sophisticated infrared cameras from Flir. For example they have a 2.3 mpixel digital camera and double LED lights enabling the user to work in dark environments. On the Flir i50 and i60 models this is complemented by a laser pointer whose target is also visible on the infrared image. Another high end feature is the Picture-in-Picture function that allows the overlaying and scaling of an infrared image on a visual image, in real time and at the push of a button. This enables easier identification and interpretation of inspected objects.
These cameras are easy to use with intuitive command buttons and clear user menu available in 21 languages. They are dust- and water splash proof, shock resistant and equipped with a field replaceable battery for five hours of uninterrupted use. The wide temperature measurement range of -20°C to 350°C is ideal for the majority of preventive maintenance applications.
The main differentiator between the cameras is the size of focal plane array. The Flir i40 has a 120 x 120 pixels detector, the established Flir i50 140 x 140 and the new top of the range Flir i60, 180 x 180. All have accuracy of ±2% and 0.1°C thermal sensitivity. Patented technology allows radiometric images to be saved in .jpeg format for easy analysis and emailing, eliminating the need for proprietary vision software. For a complete overview of findings images can also be displayed on a thumbnail image gallery.
Flir QuickReport comes as standard with the new i-Series cameras but all models are also compatible with the Flir Reporter 8.3 software. This is a wizard-based reporting suite with advanced image processing and temperature calculation functions.
For further information please visit: www.flir.com
