FLIR’s Professional Si Series Cameras
As large yachts become ever more complex, and new types of propulsion using hydrogen and ammonia come on stream, engineers have a new diagnostic tool in their kit courtesy of US-based FLIR, a brand of Teledyne Technologies.
FLIR’s professional Si Series cameras use advanced acoustic sensing to help detect and visualise compressed air leaks, ’speciality ’gas leaks (hydrogen, methane, argon, ammonia etc) mechanical faults and partial discharges on electrical equipment.
The two new models, the Si2-Pro and Si2-PD are described as ‘best in class’ for performance and would have a place in a large and noisy engine room where diagnosis underway could prove challenging. They are routinely used in large industrial facilities to minimise downtime from stopped machinery for manual investigation.
Gas leaks, worn bearings and electrical problems create a unique acoustic signature which the cameras can detect amongst a cacophony of background noise. The data is then represented as overlay graphics on the screen, showing the location of the fault and identifying the problem. The new models also feature larger batteries for longer operation and better illumination for dark corners.
Rob Milner, Business Development Director for FLIR, says that on-camera decision support tools include mechanical defect measurement, classification and severity assessment of partial discharges, leak size estimation, and cost analysis.
The Si2-Pro model combines the features of the Si2-PD and Si2-LD, and is claimed to actively lower costs by addressing mechanical bearing issues and significantly reduces the expenses from compressed air and gas leaks.
“Increasing safety while avoiding costly failures is the aim of the new Si-Series,” Milner explained. “With the addition of three leading-edge models that scale up for professional use in a wide variety of situations, the new Si2-Series of cameras cement their position as the industry’s most complete, enterprise-ready solution. The highly capable FLIR Thermal Studio will also be upgraded to include gas-leak quantification, making data simple to record and easier to share via reports between users, cutting down the time to perform and record multiple site inspections.”
To complement the Si2-Series of acoustic imaging cameras, FLIR provides its acoustic training platform and 24/7 support through its global service organization.
More at www.teledyneflir.com