Visualising sound with an ultrasonic leak detection camera

The FLIR Si124 makes it possible to visualise sound. You do not need to be an acoustic engineer to make sense of it either: this industrial acoustic imaging camera creates a precise acoustic image overlaid in real-time on top of a digital camera picture. The blended visual and sound image is displayed live on screen, visually showing ultrasonic information and enabling the user to pinpoint the sound source precisely.

Utilising sound imaging from its 124 built-in microphones, the device can assist professionals to identify leaks and partial discharge up to ten times faster than conventional methods. The device filters out industrial noise, enabling professionals to 'visualise' sound even in noisy environments.

The device enables professionals to safely detect problems from up to 100m away and analyse discharge patterns. The camera classifies three partial discharge types, comprising floating discharge, surface discharge, and discharge into the air. Knowing the type and severity of the discharge allows the facility to schedule maintenance to reduce failures and downtime.

The FLIR Acoustic Camera Viewer cloud service sets the device further apart from other acoustic imaging cameras. Image captures are swiftly uploaded over Wi-Fi to the cloud service and then instantly analysed, giving the user in-depth information such as the size and energy cost of a compressed air leak or the partial discharge classification and pattern of an electrical fault. Also, users receive 8GBs of storage and wireless data transfer capabilities, making sharing photos and data efficient and straightforward.

The device needs only minimal training and can be used one-handed. Professionals can identify issues quickly through a regular maintenance routine, helping utilities keep the power flowing and manufacturing operations going.