Thermal imaging cameras and infrared temperature sensors

Citation

(2013), "Thermal imaging cameras and infrared temperature sensors", Sensor Review, Vol. 33 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/sr.2013.08733baa.003

Thermal imaging cameras and infrared temperature sensors

Article Type: Mini features From: Sensor Review, Volume 33, Issue 2

For measuring the temperature profile of vehicle components, Micro-Epsilon has developed a range of extremely compact thermal imaging cameras. These operate at high speed data capture of up to 120 Hz full frame rate, re-transmit either full temperature data or provide alarm limits for pre-set events such as overheating or maximum hot spot. This high speed data capture and re-transmission of full temperature image information allows play back at a later date – an important feature in many automotive R&D and failure diagnostics work.

The thermoIMAGER TIM160, for example, can be fixed into position in an automotive production line or R&D test cell lab in order to monitor the temperature profile of target materials or objects. The cameras are even being used for on-vehicle testing and to monitor hotspots on vehicle cooling systems, radiators and electrical terminals.

As well as thermal imagers, compact, infrared temperature sensors can be mounted to the chassis, tyres, brake discs, engine and power train – almost anywhere on a vehicle where temperature needs to be measured. Sensors even come with integral software that allows the user to change the emissivity of the infrared temperature sensor to suit different target materials such as steel, carbon or rubber.