FLIR launches acoustic imaging camera for compressed air leak detection

FLIR, a Teledyne Technologies company, has launched the Si1-LD industrial acoustic imaging camera that provides fast and accurate compressed air leak detection

Compressed air systems typically lose 25-30% of their air to leaks, resulting in proportionally higher energy bills, costly unplanned production stoppages, shorter compressor operating life, the need to purchase extra compressor capacity, and increased maintenance expenses for the additional equipment.

Leveraging ultrasonic technology, the new FLIR Si1-LD pinpoints leaks with enhanced imaging sensitivity at an affordable price. Features include:
 An array of 96 microphones (2-100 kHz) facilitating the automatic detection, location, and measurement of compressed air and vacuum leaks from a safe distance of up to 130 m.
 12 MP colour camera with 8× digital zoom and LED lamp, facilitating the easy capture of visual details.
 Bandpass filtering allows inspectors to effectively tune out any confusing and/or incorrect sources of ultrasound without manual tuning
 Touch-screen interface displays high-resolution images for easy issue identification with real-time, on-device quantification in terms of leak volume flow rate and leak cost per year
 Wireless data transfer ensures seamless reporting/analytics options, using either the online FLIR Acoustic Viewer or offline FLIR Thermal Studio, with the ability to create reports through pre-built or fully customisable templates.

“Many manufacturing and process plants are seeing their energy bills creep up through leaky compressed air systems, increasing OPEX [operational expenditure] and eroding margins,” said Darrell Taylor, global acoustic business development manager at FLIR. “If you want to find leaks quickly and easily with minimal technician training, our new Si1-LD industrial acoustic imaging camera provides a fast and precise solution that supports sustainable manufacturing.

“As well as reduced energy consumption, the new device helps you save on maintenance, repair, operation, and capital/OPEX costs all while enhancing worker safety. With its minimum detected leak rate [MDLR] of 0.01 L/min at 2.5 m, our Si1-LD offers the market´s best combination of performance and ease-of-use in its price point.”

Two versions of the Si1-LD are available, with and without WiFi.