FLIR GF-Series thermal imaging cameras for gas detection

Sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆) is an insulating gas, used in most types of high-voltage switches all around the world. The problem with leaking SF₆ is that it is a greenhouse gas - 24,000 times more hazardous to the environment than carbon dioxide. Finding and repairing SF₆ leaks is therefore important in efforts to help reduce global warming.

The FLIR GF306 infrared camera can detect and visualise SF₆ and 25 other harmful gases. The FLIR GF-Series thermal imaging cameras are claimed to be more effective and efficient tools for detecting gas leaks than gas sniffers because with a camera the user can detect, visualise and pinpoint the leak.

Another advantage of the camera is improved operator safety, as emissions can be detected at a safe distance and investigation is possible in places difficult to reach with a sniffer. With sniffers, leak searching takes longer and the plant has to be shut down during the search. Using a thermal imaging camera, the plant can be in full operation.

The FLIR gas detection cameras are specialised infrared cameras which are able to visualise gas leaks, tracing the leaks to the source. The camera produces a full picture of the scanned area and leaks appear as smoke on the camera’s viewfinder or LCD, allowing the user to see gas emissions.

The image is viewed in real time and can be recorded on the camera’s removable SD or SDHC memory card. Images from the cameras are stored on a removable SD or SDHC memory card. Visual images can be automatically associated with the corresponding IR image.

The cameras are fully calibrated for temperature measurement applications. They feature embedded GPS data in reporting and will verify repairs. They are suitable for both finding gas leaks and maintenance inspections.