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Camera 'sees' greenhouse gases
FLIR Systems’ ThermaCAM GasFind IR gas leak detector has allowed users to incorporate infrared into their leak detection and repair programmes, providing a quicker and more efficient method than traditional toxic vapour analysis. This has led to further product development — introduction of an infrared camera specifically for detecting greenhouse gases that are not visible in the midwave infrared band: sulphur hexafluoride and anhydrous ammonia are typical examples. The new ThermaCAM GasFind IR LW is based on the standard model but, as its suffix suggests, it operates in the longwave infrared band.
Sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) is a relatively expensive manmade chemical released by electrical substations where it is used as an electrical insulator in equipment that transmits/distributes electricity. It is also used as a cover gas in the magnesium industry, in the manufacture of semiconductors, for thermal and sound insulation and as a tracer gas for ventilation efficiency.
And amongst greenhouses gases it has enormous global warming potential — 23,000 times that of CO2.
GasFindIR LW shows any leakage points of sulphur hexafluoride gas in real time. It can detect small leaks at several metres away and big leaks from hundreds of metres. In trials it has ‘seen’ leaks that eluded a traditional active laser system. In addition to making leaks visible, the camera can scan large areas quickly, increasing inspection speed and improving overall safety. It can operate in harsh conditions, has an industrial shock rating of 40G and can detect gas levels down to 5grams/hr. A 25mm lens with 22 deg. field of view is supplied standard, but 11 and 5.5 deg. lenses are also available.
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