Smallest thermal imaging camera in its class monitors dynamic processes

Micro-Epsilon: The new thermoIMAGER TIM QVGA thermal imaging camera combines a compact size and high resolution with high speed. The camera is ideally suited to monitoring tasks in industrial processes. With a frame rate up to 80 Hz and a resolution of 382 x 288 pixels, the thermoIMAGER TIM QVGA operates quickly and reliably in a temperature range from -20 °C to 900 °C. In addition, for temperatures up to 1500 °C a special model is available.

The camera is 40% smaller than its predecessor which enables even easier integration in industrial processes such as monitoring tasks in 3D printing or 100% inspection in injection molding processes. Due to its favorable combination of size, speed and high resolution, this camera is used for process and error analysis, temperature monitoring of machines and components, as well as research and development.

The camera is robust against industrial environments and is protected to IP67. The excellent thermal sensitivity is 40 mK, frame rate is 80 Hz.

The thermoIMAGER TIM QVGA camera can be operated via USB. With different lenses, it can be adapted to the respective measurement task. The scope of supply includes a well-documented SDK with numerous examples and the TIMConnect analysis software which enables parameter setup of the camera and visualization of thermal images.

Process monitoring in 3D printing 3D printing is based on additive manufacturing technology. A print head applies plastics powder on a component platform. Using a squeegee, this layer is brought to the correct thickness. Then a laser fuses the powder in the component cross-section. The platform with the component on it is lowered and the previous steps are repeated until the component is completed.

The thermoIMAGER TIM QVGA is equipped with a laser blocking filter which monitors the melting temperature of the plastic powder. In particular the camera’s compact size and its temperature stability are an advantage in this application. With an ambient temperature up to 70 °C, no cooling is necessary. Due to its fast frame rate up to 80 Hz, the camera is ideally suited to high dynamic processes. Unlike a pyrometer, the thermoIMAGER TIM QVGA not only measures the temperature punctually but also detects the entire powder bed with high resolution and only one data capture.