When we need to view into cavities with out causing excess damage or large holes, is a Borescope, Fiberscope or Inspection camera more suitable to a restoration technicians needs?
We have delved into the differences to explain which camera usage is correct for the right job
Due to the advents in optical technology and modern electronics, we’ve seen advancements in the borescope industry. Modern devices have made inspections easier and enabled restoration technicians to view problematic areas usually unable to be seen. eg, inside cavity walls or deep into drainage systems.
In this article, we’ll discuss the importance of camera inspections and how it can ensure operational safety as well as save valuable time and money. Let’s get right into it!
Initially we need to understand the types of cameras available
Borescope
A borescope is a hand held optical tool used to view areas that would otherwise not be visible. A borescope is inserted into the item being evaluated without destroying the item of interest.
Diameter and length of the cable
One of the key points to consider when choosing an industrial snake camera is the cable. Snake camera cables are available in many different lengths and diameters. Think about the cable diameter and length requirements needed for your application. In most instances, the diameter is determined by the existing openings of machine components, pipes, vents, etc. With the cable length, it is important not to choose a cable that is too short. If your diameter and length needs vary depending on your application, you may want to purchase a snake camera that accommodates multiple cable diameters and lengths. The advantages of such a snake camera are the one-time purchase price and low follow-up costs for retrofitting, such as purchasing cables with smaller diameters or longer lengths.
Memory / storage for photos and videos
In many cases, it is necessary to record and store images or video sequences of a visual inspection. Before buying an industrial snake camera, consider whether or not you require this functionality. Nowadays, many digital snake cameras feature a removable SD card memory. A removable SD card makes it easy to download photos and videos to a PC or laptop. With some of the snake camera models, additional analytical software can be purchased. This software provides measurement capabilities for documenting the progress of cracks or fractures. The documentation can be saved or sent via email.
A Borescope has unique advantages
- The image is clear, the color is realistic and the resolution is high. The borescope’s image is specially processed with the image being enlarged
- It has a video and photo function. The screen can be stored for easy viewing and continuous control observation, reducing the time of borescopes.
- Effectively avoid the disadvantages of easy breaking, easy attenuation and distortion of the image.
- The camera is designed by using scratch-resistant oil pollution prevention of a glass shell, precision mold injection moulding of the casing and parts of stainless steel casting moulding, guarantee the products are durable, waterproof, wear resistance, corrosion resistance with improved durability in harsh environments.
- They are equipped with external rechargeable batteries, portable high-definition color LCD display and can match the special real-time capture video acquisition card can be easily achieved. Additionally, it can be connected with monitor or display to show the detection image in real time.
- From the remote probe to the hand-held handle, the industrial electronic borescopes is highly water-resistant and is excellent for minerals, synthetic lubricants, aviation fuel, kerosene, gasoline and diesel.
What are the limitations of a borescope?
Their disadvantage is their rigidity that keeps them from manoeuvring into some areas. Another type of borescope is a fiberscope. It uses fibre optic strands to project the image from the tip of the probe to the eyepiece. Click here to view Borescope Camera’s
Fiberscope
A fiberscope is a flexible borescope or snake camera tool that allows you to conduct inspections of hard-to-reach spaces. An eyepiece on one end is connected to the tip of the probe using fiber optic cables. The insertion tube is flexible, giving you the freedom to snake the fiberscope through even the tightest of spots. Some models feature an LED light at the tip of the scope, providing illumination inside otherwise dark spaces. The outside sheath is often made of stainless steel, making it water- and oil-resistant.
What are the limitations of a fiberscope
The fibers in fiberscopes are thin and fragile. The fact that they are made of glass doesn’t help matters either. They can easily be damaged if not handled properly. There is also a way to find out when your fiberscope has been damaged. Any damage will be exhibited as black dots, and you will also experience a decrease in the quality of the projected image.
Fiber optic strands are also the reason for limited articulation capability spanning no more than 90 degrees.
Inspection Camera
Inspection cameras are more suited to the drainage systems as they have up to 40m length of cable to inspect far down into the drainage system to locate the problem. whether it is leakage, a blockage or a hole somewhere in the system.
Advantages of an inspection camera
- As mentioned above, the inspection camera is needed to help locate exactly where the problem is in the drain system.
- The thought of digging a small hole in your lawn wasn’t so bad until it turned into a 3-foot trench, and you and your plumber are still trying to find the leak or obstruction in your plumbing. Inspection cameras are much less intrusive while eliminating the higher cost and excessive digging in your yard while guessing the wrong spots.
- An inspection camera is a relatively non-intrusive way to determine the condition of your pipes. The inner workings of your home plumbing are often out of sight and out of mind. You can’t monitor the condition of your pipes at all times, but a replacement part or system is sometimes necessary. Knowing ahead of time when corrosion is happening or a collapsed pipe is imminent will save you from an impending emergency and costly repair.
- Click here to view Inspection camera’s
