Thick smoke is among the biggest problems for firemen at the scene of a fire. It severely reduces visibility, making it difficult to locate the origin of the fire and hidden hot spots, which increases the risk of secondary fires and puts rescuers' and trapped victims' lives at risk. High-sensitivity fire thermal imaging cameras have turned out to be a valuable solution to this problem. Even in heavy smoke, they are able to pinpoint hot spots with precision and provide strong support for firefighting and rescue.

Working Principle of High-sensitivity Fire Thermal Imaging Camera in Smoke

High-sensitivity fire thermal imaging camera does not rely on visible light imaging but infrared radiation emitted by objects. All objects above absolute zero temperature will emit infrared radiation, and the higher the temperature of the object, the stronger the infrared radiation emitted.

In a smoke-filled fire, visible light is greatly scattered and absorbed by the smoke particles, so that the naked eye cannot see clearly. Infrared radiation, however, has good penetrating power. The high-sensitivity sensor of the thermal imager can capture the weak infrared signal emitted from the high-temperature spot, transform the signal into an electrical signal, and process it into a thermal image. In thermal imaging, temperatures are represented by different colors, and high-temperature areas are usually displayed in red or yellow, so firefighters can directly find the high-temperature points.

The Core Advantages of High-sensitivity Fire Thermal Imaging Cameras

Compared with ordinary thermal imagers, high-sensitivity firefighter thermal imaging cameras have obvious advantages in smoke environments.

Firstly, its signal detection ability is stronger. Even when the temperature difference between the high-temperature spot and the surrounding environment is minimal, its infrared radiation can be captured to avoid missing the potential fire points.

Secondly, the imaging is clearer. Its high-resolution sensor has the ability to deliver the high-temperature point details, and firefighters can employ them to determine the size and spread of the fire source.

Apart from that, it also possesses superb anti-interference ability. It can filter out the interference of environmental factors such as smoke particles on the signal, ensuring the stability and accuracy of high-temperature point identification.

Practical Application at the Fire Scene

High-sensitivity firefighter thermal imaging cameras play an important role at all types of fire scenes.

There are many devices in industrial plant fires, and the ignition point can be easily hidden within the equipment cracks. Under cover of smoke, it is difficult to locate by bare eyes. Firefighter thermal imaging cameras with high sensitivity can quickly lock the overheated parts of the equipment and help firefighters extinguish the fire in a targeted manner.

Smoke spreads quickly along corridors and elevator shafts in high-rise building fires. Firefighters can use thermal imagers to detect temperature changes in walls and doors, determine if fire is behind the door, and choose a safe rescue route.

In forest fires, the amount of smoke is enormous and the fire sweeps an expansive region. Firefighting thermal imaging cameras can identify fire points hidden in the smoke, prevent the fire from reigniting after it is extinguished, and reduce the difficulty of firefighting.

Precautions for Use and Maintenance

To ensure the high-sensitivity firefighting thermal imaging camera operates stably when it is needed most, correct use and regular maintenance are required.

When using it at the fire scene, avoid direct contact with high-temperature objects. Too much heat will damage the internal sensor. In the meantime, keep the lens clean. Dust and smoke particles on the lens will affect the image quality. It is recommended to carry a special lens cloth with you to clean it in time.

For maintenance, the firefighting thermal imaging camera should be put in a dry and ventilated area after use to prevent moisture from damaging the circuit. Check the battery performance regularly and replace the aged battery promptly to prevent the abrupt power failure during usage. In addition, the equipment should be sent to a professional maintenance point for calibration regularly to ensure the accuracy of temperature measurement.

Conclusion

High-sensitivity fire thermal imaging camera has turned out to be a valuable tool in firefighting and rescue work due to its unique operating mechanism and superb performance. It breaks through the limitation of the screening effect of smoke on vision and makes accurate measurement of high-temperature points, not only saving the efficiency of fire elimination but also guaranteeing the safety of firefighters.

Guide Sensmart produces and sells various models of infrared thermal imagers. If you need any of this gear, don't hesitate to contact us.