FLIR Systems, Inc. - Experts & Thought Leaders

When production halts unexpectedly, it disrupts the entire supply chain, causing delays in product delivery and potential loss of customer trust. Financially, the costs can be substantial, including lost revenue, overtime pay for workers, and expenses for emergency repairs. Additionally, frequent downtime can damage equipment, reducing its potential lifespan and increasing maintenance costs. Thermal imaging Thermal imaging, also known as Thermography is a powerful tool for preventative maintenance in manufacturing. It involves using infrared cameras to detect heat patterns and anomalies in equipment. By identifying areas of excessive heat, which often indicate potential failures, thermography allows maintenance teams to address issues before they lead to costly unscheduled downtime. Non-invasive Thermography enhances the reliability and efficiency of machinery, extending its lifespan One of the key benefits of thermography is its non-invasive nature. Thermal imaging is performed while equipment is operating, minimizing disruptions to production. This proactive approach helps in identifying problems, such as electrical faults, mechanical wear, and insulation failures at an early stage. Consequently, it enhances the reliability and efficiency of machinery, extending its lifespan and reducing maintenance costs. Data-driven approach Moreover, thermography provides valuable data that can be used to track the condition of equipment over time. This data-driven approach enables more informed decision-making and better planning of maintenance activities. Overall, thermography is an essential component of a robust preventative maintenance strategy, ensuring operational continuity and safety. Thermal imaging cameras and sensors Teledyne FLIR is a major company specializing in the design and production of thermal imaging cameras and sensors. Renowned for their innovative technology, FLIR's products are used across various industries, including manufacturing, security, and environmental monitoring. FLIRs cameras The information can provide information to predict the maintenance required, prevent failure FLIR cameras are sophisticated instruments that can appear daunting to the untrained user, with specialist applications requiring a deep knowledge of thermography to provide valuable insights. On the other hand, FLIRs thermal imaging cameras can simply be viewed as tools to do a job, and that job is to inform maintenance teams about the condition of critical assets. The information can provide information to predict the maintenance required, prevent failure, and avoid unscheduled downtime. Training provided While training can be provided by organizations such as the Infrared Training Centre, or online via the FLIR Academy; FLIR offers multiple features to support both experienced and inexperienced thermographers in monitoring their equipment. For example:- the FLIR Exx-series and Txxx-series of cameras can be set up by an experienced user to follow an ‘inspection route’, then less experienced or even beginners can follow the same route, with the camera guiding its operator to take accurate and usable images, pre-selecting the settings and parameters as required. Wirelessly synced images for inspection All are designed to provide insights into the condition of equipment around a factory, production plant At the end of the inspection, the thermal images can be synced wirelessly to a pre-prepared report, allowing easy analysis and interpretation. This might all sound complicated, but it is just a process that once set up, supports inexperienced thermographers to capture data in a meaningful way. All are designed to provide insights into the condition of equipment around a factory, production plant, or manufacturing facility. Monitor equipment conditions If the maintenance teams are forever ‘fire fighting’, on high alert, or waiting to react urgently to equipment failures, then it’s time to invest some more time and energy to get ahead of unplanned downtime and monitor the condition of the equipment. One of the best ways to do this is through thermal imaging which can be as affordable as companies need it to be, with training, or guided inspection tools readily available to meet the requirements of the technicians and engineers responsible for maintaining equipment uptime.

The National Congress of French Firefighters is an unmissable annual event that brings together nearly 350 exhibitors, 2,500 congress participants over four days and welcomes several tens of thousands of visitors. FLIR’s Condition Monitoring and Fire team will be present at the event, showcasing a range of products. Fire range FLIR firefighting cameras provide thermal imaging solutions that enhance visibility and situational awareness in smoke-filled, dark environments. Designed to be rugged, reliable, and user-friendly, these cameras feature advanced technologies to highlight structural and textural details. FLIR’s range of Firefighting Cameras includes the following models: FLIR K1, FLIR K2, FLIR K33, FLIR K45, FLIR K53, FLIR K55, and FLIR K65. PVS Range FLIR Breach® PTQ136: Built for the rigors of law enforcement, the FLIR Breach PTQ136 spots the heat of suspects and objects in total darkness. Scion OTM266: The FLIR Scion® OTM captures clear thermal imaging and leverages a refined user interface to quickly detect objects of interest in complete darkness and through glaring light or haze. Scion PTM366 & PTM466: Built to equip law enforcement professionals with superior thermal surveillance, the FLIR Scion™ PTM packs high-performance thermal imaging into a rugged, IP67-rated handheld monocular. Scout TKx: The FLIR Scout TKx is a pocket-sized thermal vision monocular that can help they clearly see people, objects, and animals in total darkness more than 90 meters (100 yards) away. FLIR C5 With the FLIR C5 in the pocket, they'll be ready anytime to find hot fuses, air leaks, plumbing issues, and more. Identifying hidden problems is easy with the 160 × 120 (19,200 pixels) true thermal imager, MSX® (Multi-Spectral Dynamic Imaging), 5-megapixel visual camera, and LED flashlight. FLIR Cx5 The FLIR Cx5 is certified for use in many explosive environments, eliminating the need to acquire hot work permits due to gas, vapor, and dust, while making T-Class surveys quick and easy. FLIR Si2-Pro The FLIR Si2-Pro helps them significantly lower costs associated with mechanical bearing issues and partial discharge on electrical equipment. It also enables them to drastically reduce leaks in the facilities, cutting down expenses related to compressed air and gas leaks. FLIR Si2-PD The FLIR Si2-PD acoustic imaging camera helps to reduce maintenance costs for electrical equipment by offering an effective solution for partial discharge (PD) detection and response. FLIR FC-625 AI-R The FLIR FC-Series AI-R is a ruggedized thermal radiometric camera that integrates industry-pioneering thermal imaging to detect hot spots and combustion risks in harsh outdoor environments and remote areas.

Teledyne FLIR, a global pioneer in the design and manufacture of thermal imaging cameras and sensors, is helping the law enforcement segment to activate its ‘6th sense’ via the use of innovative technology that ensures officers can protect and serve with greater intelligence. Solutions such as the FLIR Breach® PTQ136 and FLIR Scion® PTM high-performance monoculars are ‘battle-proven’ to withstand the rigors of law enforcement while delivering superior thermal surveillance. Teledyne FLIR’s ‘6th sense’ Police officers, military personnel, and lifeguards/marine professionals are just some of those who can take advantage of Teledyne FLIR’s ‘6th sense’ to deliver a more effective and efficient outcome. Handheld monocular scopes from Teledyne FLIR help users locate suspects lurking in the shadows While spotlights and flashlights are essential assets that remain in mandatory use, many unpredictable situations in modern law enforcement call for a far stealthier strategy, one that leverages the benefits of high-definition thermal optics and low-light imaging. Handheld monocular scopes from Teledyne FLIR help users locate suspects lurking in the shadows from a safe stand-off position and find evidence that otherwise could remain undetected. Thermal imaging optics Thermal imaging optics produce images based on heat energy, or infrared radiation, instead of visible light. Invisible to the naked eye, all humans, animals, and objects emit infrared radiation, permitting thermal sensors to function in total darkness, through glaring light, and where there is smoke, fog, or vegetation. FLIR Breach PTQ136 A case in point is the FLIR Breach PTQ136 multifunctional thermal imaging monocular. Featuring the company’s innovative Boson core, alongside a high-definition display and compact design, the FLIR Breach delivers unrivaled tactical awareness. Weighing just 210g, users can conceal the FLIR Breach in a pocket or mount it to a helmet (via its mini-rail feature) for hands-free operation. Further attributes include on-board recording and seven palettes for perfect viewing and the rapid detection of suspects, victims, or evidence at a range of up to 360m, day or night. Users can also document operations with onboard video recording and image capture. FLIR Scion PTM The Scion PTM can instantly stream encrypted thermal video footage of any pursuit Another popular and proven solution is the FLIR Scion PTM, which packs high-performance thermal imaging compatibility into a rugged, IP67-rated handheld monocular. The Scion PTM can instantly stream encrypted thermal video footage of any pursuit, evidence recovery, or search and rescue effort to the command center via a wireless network. A smooth 60 Hz refresh rate and picture-in-picture zoom capture tiny details from distances up to 1420m and maintain peripheral awareness for constant thermal supervision of suspects, team members, and standbys. Compact, handheld thermal monoculars Ultimately, Teledyne FLIR’s compact, handheld thermal monoculars quickly detect people and objects of interest to boost situational awareness while on foot or in a vehicle. As a result, users can scan urban environments, fields, and forests without revealing their position. This innovative thermal imaging technology empowers first responders such as police officers, military personnel, and lifeguards with a 6th sense that is vital because when the unthinkable happens, everyone relies on fast decisions and rapid action.

Thermal imaging is an advantageous tool for firefighters on the frontline. As thermal cameras have become more compact and affordable, their availability has expanded, along with their usefulness. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How does thermal imaging serve the needs of firefighters and how is it changing?  

A new handheld device can detect the presence of explosive methane gas from up to 100 feet away. For firefighters, the tool provides situational awareness, saves time, and ensures safety from a distance. Knowing the presence of methane gas enables a firefighter to deal with an emergency gas leak and to avoid a deadly explosion. Gas laser The Gas Laser from Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection can shoot a laser beam through a window, a gap in a door, or another common venting point to provide an instant reading of the amount of methane in an area up to 100 feet away. The laser is invisible, but a green-spot pointer guides the aim as a user “points and shoots.” The laser bounces off any reflective object and then analyses the parts per million (ppm) of methane gas per meter of distance along the path of the laser. It measures down to a threshold of 1.25 ppm/meter. The handheld device can also capture a video image and a GPS location in addition to the gas reading stored on the device. It can be connected via WiFi and/or Bluetooth to a smartphone or other device and has onboard data logging. The device is automatically calibrated and tested when it is returned to its case. Detects minute quantities of methane Gas laser detects a much smaller amount of methane than would be explosive, thus preventing explosions  “It’s a brand new device, and everybody wants it,” says Alan Skinner, Regional Manager, Portable Gas Detection for Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection. “Once they understand what it does, they want it. Now you don’t have to be inside a hazard to detect the hazard.” The Gas Laser detects a much smaller amount of methane than would be explosive, thus preventing explosions by addressing leaks early.  The lower explosive limit (LEL) for methane is 5 percent, the equivalent of 50,000 ppm, much higher than the measurement threshold of the Gas Laser. Previously, there was no entirely safe method of evaluating the gas concentration without being near an area, typically using a three-foot probe sensor, for example.  “Now they know what they are getting into before they enter,” says Skinner. “It saves a huge amount of time.” Understanding working of gas laser Getting the word out about the device has been a challenge given the continuing coronavirus pandemic and disruptions of the hurricane season. “It’s one of those products you have to show them and let them play with it to understand what it does,” says Skinner. Interest was high at the recent FDIC show, where Teledyne unveiled the new sensor alongside its broader range of gas detection sensors. Teledyne’s range of portable sensors traces its roots back to GM Instruments (GMI), founded in Scotland in 1947. The sensor company was involved in multiple mergers and acquisitions in recent years, including ownership by companies such as Battery Ventures, Tyco, Scott Instruments, Johnson Controls, and 3M. Two years ago, the product line was acquired by Teledyne and represents the portables segment of their Environmental Monitoring Division, which also includes Detcon, Simtronics, and Oldham. Protege ZM and PS200 sensor PS200 sensor measures levels of four gases – methane, oxygen, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen sulfide Another sensor among Teledyne’s range of handheld devices is the Protégé ZM, a carbon monoxide sensor that a fireman can clip to their helmet, pocket, or bag. The “disposable” device has a 24-month lifespan, requires zero maintenance, and provides a calibration and bump test. The PS200 sensor measures levels of four gases – methane, oxygen, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen sulfide. An internal pump extracts a sample before a firefighter enters a confined space. A charge, bump, and calibration station (ABC Station) ensures calibration on a weekly, monthly, or twice-yearly basis. PS500 and GT Fire sensor The PS500 model adds another sensor to the four – typically either a photoionization detector (PID) for volatile organic compounds such as benzene, or a hydrogen cyanide (HCN) sensor to measure the presence of carcinogenic compounds that can be a byproduct of burning vinyl or plastics. The PID sensor can help investigators detect propellants that might indicate arson. The GT Fire sensor detects explosive gases in the PPM/LEL ranges with optional CO, H2S, and O2 sensors. The device can sniff out small gas leaks before any LEL level is reached. Able to find leaks in the PPM range, the device can pinpoint exactly where gas is leaking.

Back in Indianapolis for the first time since 2019, FDIC International 2021 offered a full slate of conference sessions, hands-on training and equipment exhibitions. Attendance was down, but everyone appeared happy to be back at the show, after cancellations and delay caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Masking compliance was low, despite continuing concerns about COVID-19 and the Delta variant. There was little social distancing. In many respects, the show seemed back to normal. A highlight of the event was the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation’s (NFFF) 9/11 Stair Climb. It’s a way for attendees to honor and remember those in the fire service community, who gave their lives in the 9/11 tragedy. Hundreds of FDIC participants paid tribute by climbing or walking the equivalent of the 110 stories of the World Trade Center. MSA’s LUNAR hand-held device on display As always, safety was a huge theme at the FDIC exhibition, including development in hand-held tools As always, safety was a huge theme at the FDIC exhibition, including development in hand-held tools. MSA Safety displayed the new LUNAR hand-held device that helps keep firefighting teams connected, combining direction and distance information with thermal imaging to help find separated teammates and decrease response time. LUNAR uses cloud technology to increase fire-scene management capabilities for incident commanders. LUNAR can be used as a stand-alone device or as part of an MSA SCBA (self-contained breathing apparatus) system. Thermal imaging with edge detection identifies hot spots and ventilation points, so as to simplify navigation through low-visibility environments. Tethered drone and Reveal FirePRO X thermal camera FotoKite (Perspective Robotics AG), which has a joint development agreement with MSA Safety, featured a tethered drone that hovers over the site of an emergency, in order to provide networking capabilities through the tether for better connectivity. Seek Thermal offers the ‘smallest and lightest’ thermal imaging camera, available for US$ 799 and seeks to bring the benefits of thermal technology to every position on the fire team. The Reveal FirePRO X can now be charged using a four-station charging dock priced at US$ 399. The compact size makes the FirePRO X easy to carry and manage, while its high resolution and fast frame rate ensure superior images. Teledyne gas detection systems exhibited Teledyne displayed a range of gas detection systems, starting with the simple Protégé ZM carbon monoxide meter that can clip onto pockets, helmets, and EMS bags. A new product is the Gas Laser, a hand-held device that can quickly scan common venting points from a safe distance, in order to identify the presence of dangerous explosive gas. Teledyne recently acquired FLIR and the combined companies will provide a spectrum of imaging technologies and products spanning X-ray through infrared and from components to complete imaging systems. FDIC International’s Innovation Hub focused on new technologies coming to the fire service Innovation Hub FDIC International’s Innovation Hub focused on new technologies coming to the fire service, featured in a presentation theater on the show floor. Leading the initiative was SafeTech, a College Station, Texas-based non-profit organization, whose mission is to bring new technologies to first responders and armed forces. One featured company was Tracks North America, which provides unmanned vehicles with fork-lift capabilities. Another was Infysort, which makes superabsorbent pellets – ‘hyper-blown polypropylene sorbent nanomaterial’ that can absorb 50 to 60 times its weight in oil. Hale Products SAM control system HURST Jaws of Life demonstrated eDRAULIC 3.0, a new underwater power extrication tool The SAM control system, by Hale Products, is gaining in popularity, offering computerized/integrated water flow controls that manage a fire truck’s pump, tank, intakes and discharges using touch-screen display for simplified interface. The new SAM Smart Nozzle allows firemen to control flow from the end of the fire hose. HURST Jaws of Life demonstrated eDRAULIC 3.0, a new underwater power extrication tool that can withstand salt water. The Lifeline Firehose provides a source of continuous breathable air coming from the nozzle of a fire hose. The patented coupler design enables the continuous air supply, which can also be used to power air tools. Seeking to help small and medium fire departments replace paper documentation, incident management systems offer low-cost digitization. Environmental awareness From Rosenbauer A topic among fire apparatus companies is idle reduction systems designed to shut off the main engine in a fire apparatus when not needed, eliminating loud diesel engine noise and exhaust, while maintaining power for lighting and air conditioning, for example. It is a reflection of growing environmental concerns among fire manufacturers. For example, Rosenbauer’s Green Star system makes idle reduction easy, using electronic controls to shut down the chassis engine on-scene (if the fire pump is not engaged or no aerial operations under way), and starting a diesel-driven Auxiliary Power Unit (APU). Pierce Volterra zero-emissions pumpers The first Pierce Volterra zero-emissions pumper has been placed in service in Madison Pierce launched their Volterra platform of electric vehicles. The first Pierce Volterra zero-emissions pumper has been placed in service in Madison, Wisconsin. At FDIC International 2021, the Pierce booth included an electric vehicle technology kiosk and took attendees through the electric fire truck’s attributes. CMC Rescue Rope and Harness Systems CMC Rescue Inc. demonstrated rope and harness systems for rescue operations, including special duffle bags and access packs for easy transport of harnesses. The CMC Clutch is now available in 13 mm and 11 mm models, for hauling, lowering, ascending, descending, belaying and deploying twin-tension rope systems. The CMC Triskelion 10-foot tripod features rapid deployment, for example, over a hole where a rescue is taking place and is certified to NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) standards.