FOTRIC, a leader in innovative imaging solutions, has introduced the P7MiX acoutherm camera, a cutting-edge device that integrates professional thermal and acoustic imaging. This new camera offers significant advantages for multi-angle inspection and enhanced efficiency, making it a valuable tool for both electrical and industrial inspections.
The design philosophy behind the FOTRIC P7MiX acoutherm camera leverages the strengths of thermal and acoustic imaging to provide comprehensive inspection capabilities. Current-induced heating equipment such as bus bars, clamps, connection joints, disconnectors, and blade switches emit significant heat when malfunctioning, making them ideal for thermal camera inspections. Conversely, voltage-induced heating equipment like insulators, current and voltage transformers, couplers, and arrestors emit partial discharges detectable by acoustic imagers. For example, an insulator with a minor 1°C temperature difference compared to others on a transmission tower may be hard to detect thermally but can reveal corona partial discharge in acoustic mode.
The integration of simultaneous thermal and acoustic imaging in the P7MiX allows for cross-validation of fault identification, enhancing the accuracy and reliability of inspections. Acoustic imagers are often employed in industrial sites to detect gas leaks, but background noise can cause distractions. Thermal imaging can confirm findings, ensuring greater accuracy. For instance, an acoustic signal on a nozzle might be compromised by noise, but a high-resolution thermal image showing a significant temperature drop against the environment can confirm the finding.