any one here who has used this tool? After looking at Lews thread about the Thermographic camera, and the cost, I was wondering if a thermometer would do the trick
I see some are Traceable to NIST and I don’t need one of those yet, I was looking at one that has a laser pointer and is a 12:1
distance ratio and the range is -52 f to 1382 f. about $150
In the past I would just use my hand and eyeballs to spot a problem but I guess that isn’t good enough for some customers any more, besides, some stuff does get to hot to touch
is this OK to spotcheck electric panels and loadcenters
Replies
I work for a global chemical company - the camera is theirs, but I'm the "owner". I'm not using it for construction work, but there is probably enough of a market (industrial/ commercial) to make a purchase of one worth while. I don't know of anyone currently using these in residential applications, except for fire fighters.
I have used the IR thermometers you are talking about. They are very simple and accurate, and can be used for what you mention (electrical). Depending on what you want to with it, however, it is more limited than the thermographic route - and much less costly. Further, you will have to hit the exact spot where the problem is to "see" it. The problems sometimes jump out at you with the expensive cameras.
For example, you could drive down someone's street on a cold day and take a picture of their house, alongside of a standard digital picture. Included software makes generating a one-page report showing them how much energy is slipping out their poorly-insulated walls rather simple.
I have never used either one of those tool, I have seen HVAC techs, using the thermometer, and was wondering if I should try one . It would be more precise than telling someone, " this breaker is warmer than that breaker " ....also cheap enough to throw in the toolbagI agree that your "toy" has a lot of ......GEE WHIZ ...going for it ,
but the cheapest one I found is still >$11k , and the shipping is FREE"
Like I said, their main market is not residential. I would have to line up some commercial customers (possibly do contract work for electrical contractors) before I would buy one personally - and then apply it to residential applications. I'd have to be able to make it pay for itself relatively quickly. I think that there is at least one local company offering this service now.
Lew, leasing the thing would be an alternative, and there would have to be a large need as you said, I was curious about these litte thermometers and you have answered that as well , thanks Tom"
Check out the raytek mt4 at bradystools.com. I don't think you need to spend big bucks to get the performance you want.
Dustin
I have one of the rayteks and use it to mostly monitor temps of reptile enclosures-yes, sounds weird, but it's true. Definitely a handy piece of equipment.
that's an even better deal , Thanks"
dog,
The automotive industry has been using them for a few years now. They are great for troubleshooting overheating problems. I find more uses for mine every day. The prices have come down considerably. I have a Ratec and have been very happy with it. Its probably 5 years old and still on the original battery !
Bill Koustenis
Advanced Automotive Machine
Waldorf Md
oooohnoooo,
Thanks ,
I think the cheaper the better, as it will end up at the bottom of the bag, I do want the laser sight though.
I just didn't know if there would be a BIG difference in accuracy, I am thinking that anything visual is better than guessing.....seeing is believing"