With the continuous improvement of infrared technology, thermal cameras have made great progress and are cost-effective and widely used inspection equipment.
The following content will comprehensively introduce the classification of thermal imaging cameras from five aspects: working principle, function, working band, usage form, and application scenarios. This helps beginners quickly understand thermal cameras.
Refrigerated and non-refrigerated types
According to the working principle, they are divided into cooled thermal cameras with cooled infrared image detectors and uncooled thermal imaging cameras.
Cooled thermal imaging cameras have higher sensitivity and higher resolution than uncooled thermal imaging cameras because they have cooled infrared image detectors. The temperature difference range detected is smaller, but the price and maintenance costs are also higher. It is suitable for high-end scientific research, military and national defense, astronomical observation, and other professional fields that require extremely high sensitivity and precision.
Uncooled thermal cameras are less sensitive than cooled thermal imaging cameras and cannot be as accurate as cooled thermal imagers. However, they are adequate for many industrial, commercial, and fire protection needs, are more versatile, and are cheaper to purchase and maintain.
Thermometric type and non-temperature measuring type
Classify according to the working principle. It is divided into cooled thermal cameras with cooled infrared image detectors and uncooled thermal imaging cameras.
Thermometric thermal imaging cameras are often used in industries where accurate temperature monitoring is critical. Primarily including industrial maintenance, electrical inspections, building diagnostics, medical thermography, and manufacturing process monitoring.
Non-thermometric thermal camera is used to capture infrared radiation emitted by objects in a scene, but do not include temperature measurement capabilities. Common applications include building inspections, search and rescue, wildlife monitoring, and research.
Usage form
Handheld thermal camera
They are usually small in appearance, compact in structure, lightweight and portable, and equipped with batteries, which can meet the needs of different working situations. Ideal for troubleshooting electrical installations, electromechanical equipment, process equipment, HVAC/R equipment, and many more applications. KAIWEETS KTI-W01 is a good handheld thermal camera with a resolution of up to 256 * 192. Equipped with a special storage bag, it is very convenient for outdoor use.
Fixed thermal imaging camera
Installed in a fixed position, it can be controlled remotely and can be monitored for a long time. It is suitable for the detection of building exterior walls, pipelines, storage tanks, and other equipment.
Working band division
Thermal cameras can be divided into long-wave, short-wave wave, and medium-wave thermal imaging cameras according to the working band. Generally, those with a spectrum range of 3-5 microns are SWIR thermal imagers, 5-8 microns are MWIR thermal imaging cameras, and 8-12 microns are LWIR thermal cameras.
Application scenarios
Industrial thermal cameras: Specifically developed for harsh industrial environments, industrial thermal imaging cameras help improve operational efficiency, ensure safety, and reduce costs in industrial environments.
Medical thermal imaging camera: high resolution, can capture images quickly. Specially used for body temperature measurement and examination and prevention of potential diseases.
Fire thermal cameras; usually have a wide temperature range and long detection distance. Improve safety and efficiency during fire rescue operations by providing clear images in smoke-obscured and low-visibility environments
Research thermal imager: High-precision thermal cameras tailored for scientific and engineering research, often with advanced analysis capabilities.
The above content is a comprehensive introduction to the classification of thermal cameras. I hope it will be helpful for beginners to understand thermal cameras. KAIWEETS is a company specializing in the production, R&D, and sales of thermal imaging cameras. It has its R&D personnel and supports OEM and ODM customization. If you want to purchase or develop distribution cooperation with KAIWEETS, please enter the KAIWEETS wholesale page to contact us.
