Versatile and affordable inspection cameras can access difficult areas

RS Components has expanded its range of inspection cameras with two new low-cost kits that bring borescope / fibrescope capability within even easier reach for budget-conscious engineers. The cameras allow engineers responsible for maintaining or repairing machinery or buildings to carry out detailed inspections and check the general condition to identify corrosion, leaks, damage, broken parts, pipe blockages, cable health or compliance labelling in hard-to-reach areas. The units are extremely rugged, having been tested over the normal ambient operating-temperature range of 0C to 55C and for short-term use over the range -20C to 80C. They are also proven to be resistant to a wide range of chemicals and solvents including oil, fuel and brake fluid. The new basic camera, TF3309H80, features a high-resolution 640 x 480 VGA display and comes with an 8mm VGA camera wand that can be inserted in hard-to-reach locations to capture images. The wand has a wide viewing angle and up to 4x zoom with built-in LED lighting and high detector sensitivity to capture clear images even in low-light conditions. Also joining the range, the TF3319HLMX with identical resolution and VGA wand adds the ability to record still and video images. Both new models can be fitted with an optional 5.5mm-diameter camera head, which can be inserted in small pipes or extremely space-constrained locations. The camera head connects to the main unit via its flexible IP67-rated pipe, which is 1.5m in length, allowing inspections to be carried out over longer distances. A hook, magnet and mirror accessory kit is also available, says the company. “Our innovative range of inspection cameras delivers professional quality and exceptional value. The first model has already achieved record sales within only nine months of launch,” said Ben Lawton, head of tools and consumables, RS Components. “We are continuing to develop this family with today’s launch of two new models and extra options that establish unprecedented affordability among instruments of this class.”