As of now what viable proven options does one have for furnace tubes inspection with a 3.9 micron flame filter?



Are the new microbolometer Imagers from MIKRON and FLIR field tested and proven for temperature accuracy and stability for furnace tubes at 3.9 micron? I just don't mean nice pictures, I am talking about temperature also.

Or should people just stick with the older no longer supported Agema 550 and FLIR PM390 and other older imagers?



Steve

There is nothing better than the Agema 550 and FLIR PM390, if thats what you have I would stick with them. You could of course move up to a Flir R&D camera in MWIR, and this would be better, but not portable enough.

I have seen the other two cameras you mention, and they do work, but they are not really an improvement on the Agema 550 and FLIR PM390.

What would you recommend for someone who needs to purchase the right imager for this kind of application? We do not currently have an imager for furnace tubes but we have a client who wants us to get an imager to inspect their furnaces. Temperature stability and accuracy is very important.

Should we take the chance and buy a used 550 or 390 and hope it does not fail on us?

Or should we buy the FLIR or MIKRON Uncooled Microbolometer cameras set at 3.9 microns?

What is one to do if they need a camera?

I would suggest you borrow of hire a 550 or 390, and then get a demo of the P50F and evaluate them properly.

If you had a 550 or 390 already then I would stick with them, but as you are looking at buying, then you might want to consider a new camera.

Steve:

We have several of our 7400 and 7604 thermal cameras in the field with 3.9 filters with very happy customers. Give me a call at 888.506.3900 or email me at jon@mikroninfrared.com for additional information.