6 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Thermal Cameras

Intro

Thermal cameras are not X-ray devices. They do not see through walls or glass, but they map temperature patterns on surfaces. When used in inspections, they can highlight problems such as leaks, insulation gaps, or electrical issues before they become critical. Below are six points that are often overlooked but can help you get better results in practice.

1. Resolution Does Not Equal Clarity

A higher pixel count does not always mean a clearer image. Thermal sensitivity, also called NETD, often decides whether faint anomalies appear. The lower the value, the better the camera can show small temperature differences. A camera with strong sensitivity can reveal early insulation defects or mild electrical hotspots that others might miss.

 

2. Smooth Scanning Relies on Frame Rate

Frame rate defines how quickly the image updates. For moving inspections such as patrols, firefighting, or search and rescue, a high frame rate keeps the image stable and reduces blur. For static checks like HVAC outlets or electrical panels, accuracy and calibration matter more than speed. Choose according to your main task: scanning while moving, or measuring while standing still.

3. Geometry Shapes What You Can See

Two key factors are field of view and instantaneous field of view. The first determines how wide the image appears, while the second controls the smallest detail you can pick out. Small or distant objects may fade or blur when they fall beyond these limits. In practice, you get better results by moving closer to the target, using a telephoto lens, or adding a macro lens for very small details.

 

4. Emissivity and Reflections Create Errors

Shiny metals, wet paint, and glass reflect infrared energy and confuse measurements. To improve accuracy, set emissivity correctly, input the reflected background temperature, and place matte tape on the surface as a reference point when needed. For critical spots, confirm with a contact sensor.

5. No Super Vision

A thermal camera does not see through walls. What it shows is the temperature of the surface, and that reading can be influenced by what is behind it, such as moisture trapped inside, hidden pipes, or thermal bridges in the structure. When a spot looks unusually hot or cold, take it as a sign to investigate further with tools such as a moisture meter or an electrical tester.

 

6. Palettes Are More Than Colors

Color palettes are not just for appearance. Different palettes highlight different temperature gradients. Switching between them often makes subtle contrasts easier to notice. For reports and screenshots, choose the palette that communicates most clearly.

Quick Checklist

·Decide your main use: higher frame rate for moving inspections, calibration and accuracy for static checks.

·Pay attention to focus: small targets such as PCBs often need macro or telephoto optics.

·Avoid reflections: adjust your viewing angle or distance when a hotspot looks suspicious.

·Measure carefully: set emissivity, add reflected background temperature, and use matte tape markers.

·Present results clearly: try different palettes to surface detail, and record the measurement conditions in your reports.