Although useful for anyone, if you’re a gas and heating engineer in the UK, thermal-imaging cameras can be an invaluable asset. With their ability to detect thermal patterns, these cameras are a reliable tool for identifying potential issues in heating systems, making it easier to perform efficient repairs. In short, the best thermal-imaging cameras are essential for anyone in the gas and heating industry who wants to provide top-notch service.
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Gas and heating engineers in the UK can benefit greatly from using thermal-imaging cameras. These devices offer a safe and accurate way to detect and measure temperature differences, making it easier to identify potential issues in heating systems. Until recently, thermal imaging was only available to military and high-budget professionals, but now, there are many options available for anyone to access this technology.
To help you choose the best thermal-imaging camera for your needs, we’ve compiled a list of top-rated options. These cameras can be used to locate heat sources in dark areas, identify areas where heat is being lost from buildings, and measure temperatures accurately.
Here are the top thermal-imaging cameras for gas and heating engineers in the UK:
- FLIR ONE Edge Pro
- Seek Thermal Compact PRO
- FLIR TG165-X MSX Thermal Camera
- Bosch Professional GTC 400 C
- FLIR TG267
- HIKMICRO B10
- FLIR Scout TK
The Power of Thermal Imaging Cameras
Thermal imaging cameras offer a unique perspective by allowing you to see and capture temperature differences with precision and safety.
While the practical applications of thermal imaging were once limited to military and professional sectors, advancements in technology have made them accessible to everyone.
Now, you can easily detect heat sources in dark environments, conduct heat loss tests or identify energy inefficiencies in your property. For heating, electronics, and plumbing professionals, these cameras have become indispensable tools.
How Thermal Imaging Cameras Work
Thermal imaging cameras operate beyond the visible spectrum, capturing heat radiation that is otherwise invisible to the naked eye.
By utilising advanced sensors and imaging technology, these cameras convert thermal energy into visible images, providing valuable insights into temperature variations.
Understanding how these devices function will help you make an informed decision when choosing the right thermal-imaging camera for your needs.
1. FLIR ONE Edge Pro
Specs: Here are some of the main specs for the FLIR ONE Edge Pro:
- Thermal sensor: 80×60 resolution
- Visual camera: 1440×1080 resolution
- Temperature range: -20°C to 400°C (-4°F to 752°F)
- Sensitivity: < 150 mK
- FOV: 55° x 43°
- Focus: Fixed
- Image modes: Thermal, visual, MSX, picture-in-picture
- Frame rate: 8.7 Hz
- Battery life: Approximately 1 hour
- Connection: USB-C (for charging and data transfer)
- Compatibility: iOS and Android devices
- Weight: 36.5 grams
Note that these specs may vary depending on the version of the FLIR ONE Edge Pro you purchase.
The FLIR ONE Edge Pro is a wireless thermal-imaging camera that allows gas and heating engineers to inspect hard-to-reach areas and measure targets from a safe distance using their smartphone or tablet. With FLIR MSX technology, this device enhances thermal images by overlaying visual details from the built-in camera onto the thermal image, making it easier to identify potential issues in heating systems.
The FLIR ONE Edge Pro also includes FLIR Ignite cloud software, which enables easy editing, storage, and transfer of images and creation of reports. Additionally, the device provides step-by-step application guidance and decision support, making it a reliable tool for gas and heating engineers. To ensure the device is compatible, it is important to purchase the correct version for your smartphone or tablet, and keep the software up to date by regularly visiting the manufacturer’s website.
2. Seek Thermal Compact Pro
Specs
- Thermal sensor: 320 x 240
- Field of view: 32 degrees
- Focusable lens: 6 inches to 1800 feet
- Adjustable thermal span, level, and emissivity settings
- Works in total darkness and broad daylight
- Waterproof carrying case included
- Compatible with iOS and Android devices
- Free Seek Thermal app for recording images and videos
- 1-year manufacturer’s warranty
The Compact Pro thermal imaging camera is a highly portable and versatile tool for gas and heating engineers, with a large thermal sensor and wide field of view to detect pipes and electrical faults. It works in total darkness and broad daylight, making it ideal for identifying building problems invisible to the naked eye and finding people and animals in low visibility conditions.
The camera offers adjustable thermal span, level, and emissivity settings, allowing professionals to see more thermal detail where needed. It can be used with an Apple phone, allowing images and videos to be recorded and shared easily, and the focusable lens allows for quick identification and sharp images. The camera comes with a waterproof carrying case and a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty.
3. FLIR TG165-X MSX
Specs:
- Thermal imaging resolution: 80 x 60 (4,800 pixels)
- Temperature measurement range: -25°C to 300°C (-13°F to 572°F)
- Measurement accuracy: +/- 1.5°C or 1.5% of reading, whichever is greater
- Field of view (FOV): 50° x 38.6°
- Minimum focus distance: 0.1m (4 inches)
- Laser pointer: Class 2, 0.05-40m (1.6 ft – 131 ft)
- Display: 2.4-inch color TFT LCD
- Image modes: Thermal, visual, MSX
- Battery type: Rechargeable Li-ion
- Battery life: 5 hours continuous use
- Dimensions: 210 x 64 x 81 mm (8.3 x 2.5 x 3.2 inches)
- Weight (including battery): 394 g (11 oz)
The FLIR TG165-X Thermal Camera is a powerful tool that allows gas and heating engineers to see beyond the limitations of single-spot IR thermometers with its 80 x 60 true thermal imager. The patented MSX enhancement adds sharp visual detail to thermal images, making it easier to diagnose problems in pipes, boilers, and other heating systems. With the ability to measure temperature changes instantly, from -25 degrees Celsius to 300 degrees Celsius, engineers can quickly identify potential issues.
The multipoint laser pointer provides a circle to clearly show the area being measured, while the device can display and capture a visual image with temperature reading. The TG165-X Thermal Camera is a versatile and reliable tool for professionals, offering advanced features to help diagnose and fix problems quickly and efficiently.
4. Bosch Professional GTC 400 C
Specs:
- Temperature range: -10°C to +400°C
- Accuracy: ±3°C
- Thermal resolution: 160 x 120 pixels (19,200 total)
- Display: 3.5″ TFT LCD color screen
- Connectivity: Bluetooth and micro USB
- Battery: 12V 2.0Ah Lithium-Ion battery
- Battery life: up to 6 hours
- Dimensions: 218 x 94 x 170 mm (8.6 x 3.7 x 6.7 in)
- Weight: 720 g (1.6 lb)
- Accessories included: Bosch Thermal App, 2 batteries, quick charger, pouch, hand strap, and micro USB cable
The Bosch GTC 400 C thermal camera allows you to transfer thermal images to a mobile device, edit them, and create detailed reports using the Bosch Thermal App or PC software. The camera has a wide temperature range from -10°C to +400°C with an accuracy of ±3°C*. The thermal images are easy to understand and access important functions with just one click, and the picture-in-picture function helps locate measurements. The camera has a resolution of 160 x 120 (19,200px) delivering high-quality thermal images, making it easy to visualize temperature differences.
The items included in the package are the GTC 400 C thermal camera, Bosch Thermal App, two 12V 2.0Ah batteries, quick charger, pouch, hand strap, and micro USB cable. This tool is ideal for gas and heating engineers as it allows them to easily detect temperature differences and thermal anomalies in a wide temperature range. The camera’s connectivity feature enables users to share findings with others and create reports to document the results.
5. FLIR TG267
Specs:
- Temperature range: -25°C to 380°C (-13°F to 716°F)
- Thermal resolution: 160 x 120 (19,200 pixels)
- Field of view (FOV): 57° x 44°
- Display: 2.4-inch color TFT LCD
- Imaging modes: IR, visual, and MSX
- Image capture: Yes, with temperature readings
- Drop test: 2 meters (6.6 feet)
- IP rating: IP54 (dust and water-resistant)
- Battery type: 1 x rechargeable Li-ion battery (3.7V, 2600mAh)
- Battery life: Up to 5 hours of continuous use
- Laser pointer: Multipoint laser pointer
- Thermocouple support: Type-K thermocouple probe support
The device offers a wide temperature measurement range of -25°C to 380°C (-13°F to 716°F) using a 160 × 120 IR pixel imager with 19,200 pixels. It can display and record MSX-enhanced thermal images or visual images with temperature readings. The device is designed to withstand a 2-meter drop and protect against dust and water with an IP54 enclosure, making it suitable for use in hazardous environments. Additionally, it supports a variety of temperature measurement processes with its thermocouple probe connector and general-purpose Type-K thermocouple probe.
The device also features a multipoint laser pointer that provides a clear circle to show the area being measured. This feature, along with the device’s ability to display temperature readings and visual images, makes it a valuable tool for gas and heating engineers. It allows them to accurately and quickly detect temperature changes and identify potential problems with heating systems or pipelines, enabling them to make informed decisions and take appropriate action.
6. HIKMICRO B10
Specifications:
- Temperature measurement range: -20°C to 550°C (-4°F to 1022°F)
- Thermal sensor resolution: 160 x 120 pixels
- Spectral range: 8μm to 14μm
- Thermal sensitivity (NETD): <50mK (0.05°C)
- Frame rate: 25 Hz
- Image modes: thermal, visible, picture-in-picture
- Built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery with up to 5 hours of continuous operation
- Wi-Fi and USB-C connectivity for transferring data and charging the device
- Compact and lightweight design for easy portability and one-handed operation
- IP54-rated protection against dust and water
- Includes a protective carrying case and wrist strap
The HIKMICRO B10 thermography imager provides gas and heating engineers with a high-definition image that includes full-screen temperature measurement, making it an ideal thermal inspection tool. With a wide temperature range of -20 °C to 550 °C and 25Hz frame rates, it can accurately detect temperature variations that may indicate potential issues with heating or gas systems. Additionally, the 4 image modes and 5 colour palettes, along with blending 2MP visual light, provide versatility for different use scenarios.
The compact design of the B10 includes features such as audio alarm and warning lights to alert engineers when the temperature is out of range, LED work lights to illuminate dark and hard-to-reach areas, and 16G eMMC flash storage that can hold over 90,000 images. The built-in Li-Ion rechargeable battery can support up to 6 hours of continuous operation, making it a reliable tool for on-the-job use. Furthermore, the device comes with a hassle-free warranty of 3 years for the entire device and 10 years for the sensor, along with lifetime firmware updates and technical support, providing peace of mind for gas and heating engineers.
7. FLIR Scout TK
Specifications:
- Thermal Sensor: 160 x 120 VOx Microbolometer
- Digital Zoom: 2x
- Field of View: 20° × 16°
- Focus: Fixed
- Display: 640 x 480 LCD
- Video Output: NTSC composite video (switchable to PAL)
- Image Capture: Short press for image capture, long press for video capture
- Image Modes: White hot, black hot, InstAlert (high contrast red), and Graded Fire
- Battery Life: Five hours of continuous operation
- Dimensions: 6.70 x 2.31 x 2.44 inches
- Weight: 6 ounces (170 g)
- Drop Test Rating: 2 meters (6.6 feet)
- Waterproof Rating: IP67
The FLIR Scout TK is a pocket-sized thermal imaging camera that allows gas and heating engineers to see heat signatures in total darkness. With its ability to detect heat, it can help professionals locate leaks, insulation issues, and other problem areas that can affect the efficiency of heating systems. The device’s small size and simple four-button design make it easy to use with one hand, allowing for convenient inspections in tight or hard-to-reach spaces.
Aside from its professional applications, the Scout TK is also a great everyday tool for personal and home security at night. The camera’s ability to detect heat signatures can help homeowners identify potential threats or intruders in the dark. The package includes a neck lanyard, USB cable, and lens cap, and image capture is as simple as a short press on the button, while long-press allows for video capture, making it easy to document and report findings.
Which thermal imaging camera is right for you?
A Comparison of the Bosch Professional GTC 400 C and FLIR ONE Edge Pro Models
| Key features | Bosch Professional GTC 400 C | FLIR ONE Edge Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Thermal Resolution | 160 x 120 pixels | 160 x 120 pixels |
| Temperature Range | -10°C to +400°C | -20°C to +400°C |
| Thermal Sensitivity | < 50 mK | < 100 mK |
| Field of View | 42° x 31° | 50° x 38° |
| Refresh Rate | 9 Hz | 8.7 Hz |
| Display | 3.5-inch LCD | Smartphone |
| Battery Life | Up to 6 hours | Up to 4 hours |
| Weight | 0.5 kg | 0.032 kg |
| Dimensions | 179 x 81 x 44 mm | 67 x 34 x 14 mm |
The table above shows that both the Bosch Professional GTC 400 C and FLIR ONE Edge Pro offer advanced features that are highly beneficial to gas and heating engineers. The Bosch Professional GTC 400 C provides a high-temperature range, accurate temperature measurement, and thermal sensitivity, making it perfect for detecting heating system issues. It also features a large and clear display screen, convenient image and video storage, and easy data transfer.
The FLIR ONE Edge Pro is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around and use in tight spaces. It also provides a high-resolution thermal image with a broad temperature range, which is beneficial for identifying heat loss and other issues in heating systems. Additionally, it features a user-friendly interface, real-time temperature tracking, and compatibility with a range of devices.
Our overall top pick
For professionals who need to get heating issues diagnosed quickly and accurately, the Bosch Professional GTC 400 C is the standout pick, it is rugged and has all the key features needed. Buy it now on Amazon
Uses For Thermal Imaging Cameras
Thermal-imaging cameras detect invisible IR light, which is translated into a visual “thermogram” for the user. The images are made up of pixels and typically start at lower resolutions such as 80×60 pixels. However, higher resolutions are better for working at a distance, which is crucial in security and rescue scenarios.
Additionally, digital overlaying of the thermal image with a high-resolution visible one can make understanding the picture easier. Many devices on the market offer this feature.
- Detecting leaks: Thermal imaging cameras can help gas and heating engineers detect leaks in pipes, boilers, and other heating systems that might not be visible to the naked eye. The cameras can also help identify areas where insulation is missing, which can cause energy loss and higher heating bills.
- Identifying blockages: Thermal imaging cameras can also be used to identify blockages in pipes or heating systems, which can cause inefficiencies and potentially dangerous build up of pressure.
- Troubleshooting: Thermal imaging cameras can help engineers troubleshoot problems in heating systems, such as identifying malfunctioning components or areas that are overheating.
- Maintenance inspections: Thermal imaging cameras can be used for regular maintenance inspections, allowing engineers to identify potential issues before they become major problems.
- Safety inspections: Thermal imaging cameras can be used for safety inspections, identifying potential hazards such as gas leaks or electrical hotspots that could pose a danger to occupants of a building.
Things to Look for When Buying the Best Thermal Imaging Cameras
Resolution
One of the crucial factors to consider when purchasing a thermal imaging camera is the resolution. Higher resolution cameras provide more detailed thermal images, allowing for better analysis and identification of temperature variations. Look for cameras with a higher pixel count to ensure clear and accurate thermal imaging results.
Temperature Range and Sensitivity
The temperature range and sensitivity of a thermal imaging camera determine its ability to detect and measure temperature variations. Consider the temperature range required for your specific application and ensure that the camera’s sensitivity is suitable for detecting the temperature differences relevant to your needs.
Field of View
The field of view refers to the area that a thermal imaging camera can capture in one image. It’s important to choose a camera with a suitable field of view based on the size of the target area or object you intend to analyze. A wider field of view allows for capturing larger areas at once, while a narrower field of view offers more precise measurements for smaller targets.
Durability and Ease of Use
Look for a thermal imaging camera that is durable and built to withstand challenging environments. Consider factors such as rugged construction, dust and water resistance (IP rating), and the ability to withstand drops or impacts. Additionally, prioritize cameras that are easy to operate and navigate, with intuitive menus and user-friendly controls.
Features and Functionalities
Evaluate the available features and functionalities that can enhance your thermal imaging experience. Some cameras offer image and video recording capabilities, allowing you to document and analyse thermal data later. Wireless connectivity options enable seamless data transfer and remote control. Consider compatibility with analysis software that can provide advanced measurement tools, image enhancements, and data integration options