What Is a Thermal Scanner?

A thermal scanner is a special type of camera that detects and records temperatures. This process, also known as thermography, is used to find people in trapped in fires and detect flammable areas in structures.

Principles

Thermal scanners detect variations in temperature and display them as patterns of light. A lighter color displayed means a warmer area.

Applications

Thermal scanners can be used on exterior and interior areas of structures. They detect heated areas that present either present or potential fire dangers. When used preemptively, thermal scanners give maintenance workers information regarding which areas of a structure's insulation should be repaired or replaced.

Limitations

The effectiveness of thermal imaging can be challenged by intense atmospheric conditions. If temperatures are too intense or too varied, the scanner will be unable to offer an accurate reading.

References

• Energy Savers: Thermographic Inspections
• Fire.Gov: Thermal Imaging
• Fluke: Thermal Imaging