Visualising sound with the FLIR Si124 leak detection camera

24th November 2021

Kiera Sowery

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Did you know it's possible to visualise sound? You don’t have to be an acoustic engineer to make sense of it: the FLIR Si124 industrial acoustic imaging camera produces a precise acoustic image that is overlaid in real time on top of a digital camera picture.

The blended visual and sound image is presented live on screen, visually displaying ultrasonic information and allowing the user to accurately pinpoint the source of the sound.

Acoustic imaging is used for two primary purposes: air leak detection, and locating partial discharge from high-voltage systems. Using sound imaging from 124 built-in microphones, the FLIR Si124 can help professionals identify leaks and partial discharge up to 10 times faster than with traditional methods.

Compressed air leak detection

Compressed air is the single most expensive energy source across all factory types, yet up to one-third of that compressed air gets lost to leaks and inefficiencies. The human ear can sometimes hear an air leak in a quiet environment, but in a typical industrial environment it’s impossible to hear even bigger leaks due to loud background noise. Fortunately, the Si124 filters out the industrial noise, allowing professionals to visualise' sound even in noisy environments.

Partial discharge in high-voltage systems

In electrical systems, partial discharge can lead to equipment failures and unplanned downtime. With the Si124, professionals can safely detect problems from up to 100 metres away and analyse discharge patterns. The camera classifies three partial discharge types, including surface discharge, floating discharge, and discharge into air. Knowing the type and severity of the discharge enables the facility to schedule maintenance to minimise failures and downtime.

What sets the Si124 further apart from other acoustic imaging cameras is the FLIR Acoustic Camera Viewer cloud service. Image captures are quickly uploaded over Wi-Fi to the cloud service and then immediately analysed, providing the user in-depth information such as the size and energy cost of a compressed air leak, or the partial discharge classification and pattern of an electric fault.

In addition, users get 8GBs of storage and wireless data transfer capabilities, making sharing photos and data simple and efficient. The Si124 requires minimal training and can be used one-handed. Through a regular maintenance routine, professionals can identify issues fast – helping utilities keep the power flowing and manufacturing operations going.