Discussing FLIR E4 – The Hot Topic in Thermal Imaging

Visible light is what we see around us every day and it’s the only part of the electromagnetic spectrum our eyes can receive. This kind of light only takes up a small area in the electromagnetic spectrum, while the infrared radiation (IR) represents a larger percentage. If we want to reach the other parts of the spectrum, we’ll need specialized equipment.

The thermal imaging camera is a device that translates thermal energy or heat into visible light. Although they were once used exclusively by industries commercial buildings, law enforcement and other professionals have also started using them, since they have just as many opportunities to benefit from thermography. There are a number of components that contribute to the quality, cost and durability of a thermal imaging camera, however the two most important factors are the resolution of the detector and the thermal sensitivity.

Despite being the first model of the E series and at the same time one of the most inexpensive infrared cameras available up to this date, the FLIR E4 offers exactly that. Its thermal sensitivity ranges from <0.15 Celsius (150mK) and it offers an infrared resolution of 4,800 pixels. Plus, its simple point and shoot technology makes it very easy to operate with. Among the other useful features, the FLIR E4 has a built in visual camera, a bright color display with improved menu navigation, a rechargeable battery pack and so much more.

Once the FLIR E4 earns its place in your toolbox, you can use it to find heat loss and moisture intrusion within seconds, while at the same time it can create pictures of problems that are very easy to understand. For example, since thermal imaging cameras such as the FLIR E4 allow you to take measurements from a distance, they are ideal for finding issues that are hard to reach or that could be harmful for the workers.

However, even though they are simple devices, it’s possible to make mistakes, so before you starting working with a FLIR E4, make sure you are familiar with all its features and possibilities. A common novice mistake is overlooking whether the measurement is in Celsius or in Fahrenheit. Also, an important reminder for everyone is that thermal images don’t see through objects, so it’s a myth that you can detect water leak behind a concrete surface. You can however spot moisture intrusion in a wall for example, but only if the water changes the wall’s surface temperature or if the wall material easily conducts heat.

Reference: Infrared Camera: Must Read This Before you Buy any IR Camera