Fluke Thermal Cameras: How Wind Affects Thermal Reading

Thermal energy can be found all around us. Even our own bodies emanate hot and cold energy and that also goes for our surroundings. If you think of it, thermal cameras (or imagers) are actually one of the most sophisticated devices we have in terms of troubleshooting. Honestly, this device shows actual heat on the screen! That alone says a lot about technology advancement. Wait till you learn more about Fluke Thermal Cameras, but we’ll get to this a bit later.

Nevertheless, things are not always a hundred percent with thermal cameras (or any other device in general). This is because surrounding elements can always affect readings. And when the man in charge is not aware of the possible elements that can affect outputs, and this will cause inaccurate data.

How does wind affect readings?

It all goes down to understanding the basic principle of heat transfer. You see, thermal energy varies from hot to cold (or vice versa) which is the basic principle of temperature. This is so unless another force comes in between that process and alters it completely. And when we say “another force” this means the wind. Yes, the wind is a viable candidate for temperatures to be manipulated. As a result, this can alter a surface’s temperature.

On the other hand, when you use a thermal camera to inspect an object (whether it’s on the inside or outside) you also need to take your environment into consideration. In line with this, there is a thing such as forced convection. Forced convection is a form of heat transfer that comes from wind, fans, pumps, suction devices, etc. Basically, these are elements that have the ability to change your target temperature. 

A deeper understanding of forced convection.

Think of it this way, if you make hot tea it is already a given that it’s not going to stay hot for quite some time. This is because heat tends to get lost in the surroundings. Technically, forced convection is the interruption of external aspects turning originally hot objects into cooler ones or vice versa.

There are actually two types of convection you must know about. One of them is forced and the other is natural. To briefly explain the two elements, forced convection (as we’ve mentioned above) is caused by objects. But on the matter of natural convection, this is actually influenced by the natural flow of things. Some examples of this are the sea breeze and land breeze.

Wind can cause a change in reading.

Don’t be alarmed, we’re not talking about drastic changes but yes, there is change when the wind is applied to readings. So it’s safe to say that if you want accurate readings on your data, best have a wind meter handy. However, if you don’t have a wind meter on hand, there is actually another way of determining which kind of wind you are dealing with.

But first, you must know and understand the Beaufort Scale. To put it lightly, the Beaufort Scale is a scale of the wind speed based on visual estimation of the wind’s effects from zero to twelve. Here’s a chart according to the Royal Meteorological Society.

Beaufort Scale

ForceSpeed (mph)Description
0<1Calm
11-3Light air
24-7Light breeze
38-12Gentle breeze
413-18Moderate breeze
519-24Fresh breeze
625-31Strong breeze
732-38Near gale
839-46Gale
947-54Strong gale
1055-63Storm
1164-72Violent storm
1273+Hurricane

Environmental adjustments you can tweak.

Realistically speaking, you cannot make tweaks or adjust every inspection environment you enter! Such a thing is not always doable. Nevertheless, what you can make up for it though is to be prepared. Here is something thing you can do!

During an indoor inspection, air conditioning and other HVAC appliances may have an effect on readings. The best way to prevent forced convection is by turning off the HVAC system before performing any operation.

With outdoor windy environments, however, unless you can control the weather and stop the wind, it might be trickier than usual. But the best way to go about this is to examine older data, inspect the machine thoroughly, and adjust settings accordingly.

About Fluke Thermal Cameras…

Fluke Thermal Cameras actually has advanced features than most. But be aware that there are also different kinds of them with slightly different functions. However, like any other thermal camera, each unit will let you take quality thermal readings with the following functions:

  • Continuous touchscreen IR-Fusion
  • 5 hours battery life.
  • Can withstand drop up to 2 meters.
  • Water and dust resistance. IP54 enclosure rating.
  • Automatically organize and file thermal images with Fluke Connect.
  • 120 x 90 infrared resolution.

But in totality, whatever thermal camera you choose can benefit you and your work greatly, no doubt!

Here are some of its advantages for you:

  • Can collect data in hazardous environments from a safe distance.
  • Scanning large areas such as walls, ceilings, and roofs quickly.
  • Gathering data without disrupting production.
  • Quickly identifying irregularities in specific locations.
  • Detecting problems before failure.

Get your Fluke tool from a trusted source!

Presidium PH is an authorized distributor of Fluke test tools in the Philippines. So, if you want to know more about Fluke tools and their functions, visit our website for more info! This is a one-stop-shop for the best test tools in the market!

Read more

Fluke Maintenance Tools: Best Fluke Sets and Kits You Should Consider Buying

Fluke products are already an amazing feat when performing on the field, but what more if they have incredible accessories to back them up? To say the least, fluke products don’t even need any introductions anymore as they already have a steady reputation of being the best and the most reliable in the test tools industry. Fluke maintenance tools are not just popular with their advanced functions, but they are also known to maintenance professionals for not only showcasing the ease of use but also a sense of security.

Why buy fluke sets and kits?

We’re not saying that purchasing individual products is not practical, but maybe, just maybe, there is something with Fluke sets and kits that you’re missing out on. Let’s face it, test kits and sets offer more variety and are actually more organized (but of course this depends on the person handling them) compared to individual purchases. Here’s how it’s going to benefit you:

Ease of grabbing the appropriate kit to bring on the job

You no longer need to fumble for the right multimeters to use (because yes, there is a variety of multimeters and not just one). Additionally, you get to dodge the frustrations of untangling wires just to see which one can do the job right.   With a set or a kit, simply bring the entire bag without worrying if you’re bringing the right stuff.

Organized

Let’s get this straight, being organized actually rests in the hands of the men in charge. However, buying Fluke sets and kits gives a sense of organization in terms of usage since it compartmentalizes each tool based on its specialty.

Complete tools and accessories

When you buy sets and kits, one thing you can always count on is the completion of the device’s tools and accessories. Yes, when you buy individual products, some of them already have one or two accessories, however, buying a set lets you have more variety in terms of its usage potential.

Think of a camera. When you buy cameras, you’ll have some of its accessories such as chargers and standard lenses. However, if you’re buying a set or that camera, you’ll get to have so much more. A camera set can include camera stands, lens options, SD cards, a camera bag, etc. Basically, the bottom line is, you get the entire package.

Have variety

You will never feel limited when you buy Fluke maintenance tools in sets and kits. There are times when we feel limited in terms of options because of not having certain accessories or add ons. Nevertheless, when you decide to purchase an entire set, have the ease of thought that ‘you have everything you need’ so challenging issues won’t seem so daunting anymore.

What are the best Fluke maintenance tools in sets and kits?

Trust that these test tools and kits can improve the performance of any of your existing Fluke devices. There are several to choose from depending on what kind you need for the project.  Here are some of them:

Fluke Insulated Screwdriver Kit

When you’re troubleshooting electrical equipment with loose nails, it’s best if you have insulated screwdrivers instead of using ordinary ones. Normal DIY screwdrivers can’t protect you from electric shocks. And boy, believe us when we say you would want to have the utmost protection when you encounter those hazards. To recall, electrical shock, to some degree, can be very dangerous for a person that can lead to fatalities.

Nevertheless, when you use insulated hand tools, you’ll have a certain level of protection when you encounter major electrical shocks.

Key features:

  • Precision insulated screwdriver kit
  • 7 insulated screwdrivers: 2 square, 3 slotted, and 2 Phillips
  • Certified to 1000 V ac, 1500 V dc to keep you safe
  • Ergonomic handle adapts to user to cause less strain and max torque
Fluke Insulated Screwdriver Kit

Fluke 87V IMSK Industrial Multimeter Service Combo Kit

This kit includes one of the widely used industrial digital multimeters in the world.  just let you efficiently troubleshoot motor drives, plant automation, power distribution, and electromechanical equipment even in loud, high-energy, and high-altitude locations, With the use of a digital multimeter, you can confidently troubleshoot motor drives, plant automation, power distribution, and electromechanical equipment even in loud, high-energy, and high-altitude locations. As if that’s not impressive enough, this kit also comes with extra add-ons that you don’t usually find in singular purchases.

Key features:

  • Fluke-87V Multimeter has True-RMS accuracy and advanced functionality to give you the results you need.
  • Fluke-i400 AC 400A Current Clamp turns the 87V into a clamp meter.
  • Select accessories like temperature probe, test leads, and alligator clips included.
Fluke Industrial Multimeter Service Combo Kit

Fluke 287 FlukeView® Forms Combo Kit

One of the key functions of the FlukeView Forms Combo Kit is maximizing the time of every maintenance professional by being able to track down elusive, intermittent problems or monitor equipment with any of its functions. Moreover, have the convenience of storing your data reading into the device itself.

Don’t feel limited by its functions since this combo kit comes with multiple accessories that include:

  • Fluke-287 True-rms Electronic Logging Multimeter with TrendCapture
  • FlukeView Forms Software and cable
  • 80BK-A Thermocouple Probe
  • The CAT III 1000 V 10 A Modular test leads (red, black)
  • CAT II 1000 V 10 A Modular test probes (red, black) and caps
  • CAT III 1000 V 10 A Alligator Clips (red, black)
  • C280 Soft Case for meter protection and accessory storage
  • Amp Jack Plug Set
  • TPAK Magnetic Meter Hanger for Hands Free Operation
  • Requires Fluke ir3000 FC InfraredConnector for Fluke Connect communication (not included with this kit)
FlukeView Forms Combo Kit

Get yours from a trusted distributor!

Presidium PH is an authorized distributor of Fluke Maintenance tools in the Philippines. So, if you’re looking for a combo kit that will suit your needs or your next project, this is the one-stop-shop to go!

Read more

5 Ways on How Air Leaks Can Cause Destruction to Equipment

What makes air leaks so bad? 

Don’t underestimate the power of air especially when it’s leaking! When it comes to machines and equipment, such seemingly innocent leaks can actually cause more damage when not detected beforehand. In worse-case scenarios, air leaks can cause downtimes and performance issues that can drag an entire production down. 

Did you know that if an air leak is not detected in advance, this can literally make money fly with a snap of a finger? To give you a brief idea, we’re talking about 6,000 EUR for a single 3mm leak for a year! Just think how much money could be saved when these little critters are detected in advance.

Therefore, investing in a good-performing maintenance tool is a must especially if you’re running big establishments. The Fluke ii900 Industrial Imager is built and designed to detect compressed air which makes them the perfect tool to detect air leaks even in big spaces.

What makes Fluke unique from others in the market?

It doesn’t just make maintenance of people’s jobs easier, but it also features great innovative functions. This tool has 64 directional microphones that can detect soundwaves given off by a leak that is overlaid on top of an image taken through the Fluke ii900 Industrial Camera. To top it off, this device can even detect leaks for up to 50 meters. You can easily walk around big facilities and detect even the smallest ones.

Moreover, this is also very beneficial if you’re performing rounds in hazardous environments. Feel safe and confident when resolving technical issues in the most rugged places. This device will give you the security of troubleshooting long distances. Its ability to reach far places ensures that your team or the person in charge doesn’t need to perform drastic measures to get the job done.

How do air leaks cause destruction on equipment?

Let’s get into detail on how air leaks cause havoc in different kinds of equipment. Here are some examples:

Air Leaks In Steam Systems

An expensive undertaking once leaks hit steam systems. Steam systems are usually found in establishments build for industrial use. You might think that steam is easy to make, but on the contrary, steam is actually expensive to produce. If you notice, factories and other industrial spaces are often inaccessible. The mere fact that it is not often visited by people also poses a challenge making it difficult to identify underlying issues.

The most common knowledge about air and gas leaks is that it is extremely hard to detect especially when you’re not using any equipment. Issues with steam systems alone show that they can happen in more than one place. Additionally, you should also consider the size of the place since it will prove to be more of a challenge to locate these minuscule discharges. 

Places to look for air leaks in steam systems:

  • Pipe fittings
  • Valves
  • Steam traps

With the use of the Fluke ii900 Sonic Industrial Imager, you can easily identify these and other types of air or gas leaks to keep your systems up and running efficiently.

Robotics Leaks Impact Product Quality

Robotics in factories can also experience leaks. Here, we’re going to specifically talk about pick and place robots. To summarize, these kinds of factory robots’ purpose are just to literally, pick and place things (depending on what the factory is producing). Now, one of the parts of these robots is suction cups and actuators. If these parts are weak the robots may have the tendency to drop or misplace the objects they’re carrying. 

Basically, if this happens, and leaks are not detected beforehand, it’s going to cause more damage since product quality relies on these robots to get the job done. However, with the use of a Fluke ii900, situations like these can be easily prevented. Just think about checking these robots for leaks one by one. A process like that can eat time like a beast. But with an innovative device in your beck and call, you can perform troubleshooting rounds in a timely manner and with ease.

Outdoor Holding Tank Leaking Expensive Gases

The thing with outdoor holding tanks is that it’s more exposed to harmful environmental elements. Usually, holding talks is piped into the facility to power the production process. Another part of outdoor holding tanks is Argons. These are the huge tanks holding gas inside them. Coincidently, these tanks are also susceptible to leak. Keep in mind that once these things leak, money leaks with them as this kind of equipment are also costly to have. Just imagine not spotting these leaks beforehand. It’s literally going to punch a hole in bank accounts.

Pressure Regulator Corrosion

Process regulators usually contain compressed air, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide. Naturally, when process regulators start malfunctioning, and you can’t pinpoint the exact location where things are going wrong, expect that things might turn downside. As a result, this might cause the pressure regulator to corrode. And once pressure regulators corrode, they can no longer be in use. 

Don’t wait for corrosion to happen. The Fluke ii900 can pinpoint even the smallest of leaks in pressure regulators. Having this device can ultimately improve downtime and quality of work. 

Air Handler Ducting Leaks in Gaskets and Fasteners

Mainly, gaskets and fasteners are the tools used to attach big pieces of machinery together. No matter how small or frail they look, make up for the use they have when keeping parts attached. The downside? They are one of the main causes of air/gas leaks. Once these gaskets or fasteners are loose (or missing), this can have disastrous effects on the entire plant. How bad are we talking about? Leaks with gaskets and fasteners have the potential to shut down the plant or cause environmental discharge. 

Get the best of the best!

Presidium PH is the #1 Fluke distributor in the Philippines. There is a wide selection of Fluke tools for you to choose from! No doubt, all of them are the best performing in the market. Moreover, get to know more about their cool functions and other applications. You might be surprised how Fluke is raising the bar for test tools in the Philippines. 

Read more