Inspection Cameras

Inspection cameras are invaluable tools that provide visual access to normally inaccessible areas. These devices, essentially miniature cameras or probes on flexible cables, allow for close-up, real-time viewing in confined spaces.

From examining pipework and internal machinery to medical diagnostics, there’s a diverse range of high-quality inspection and probe cameras available to suit specific applications.

Learn more with our complete guide to inspection cameras.

What Are Borescope Inspection Cameras?

Borescope inspection cameras, often shortened to borescope cameras, are specialised tools that utilise a long, flexible or rigid tube with a camera and light source at the tip. This design enables the user to visually inspect confined or hard-to-reach spaces without disassembly.

They employ either a system of lenses and prisms (rigid borescopes) or fibre optics (flexible borescopes) to transmit the image from the camera at the tip to an eyepiece or digital display. The light source illuminates the inspection area, providing clear visibility.

Borescope cameras offer numerous advantages:

• Non-destructive inspection: Borescopes allow for internal inspection without damaging the equipment or structure being examined.
• Detailed visuals: They provide clear, close-up views of internal components, revealing potential issues like corrosion, cracks, or blockages.
• Versatility: Borescopes are available in various diameters, lengths, and with different features (e.g., articulation, recording) to suit diverse applications.

They are widely used in industries like:

• Automotive: Inspecting engine cylinders, valves, and fuel lines.
• Aerospace: Examining turbine blades and aircraft structures.
• Manufacturing: Inspecting welds, castings, and internal machinery components.
• Construction: Inspecting pipes, ducts, and wall cavities.

What is the Difference Between an Endoscope and Fibrescope?

In principle, an endoscope and a fibrescope are similar in that they incorporate a camera head or probe on a flexible arm that allows you to access difficult-to-reach places. However, they have key distinctions:

• Fibrescope: A fibrescope employs a fibre optic bundle to transmit visual information from the camera to a digital screen or eyepiece. While sometimes referred to as borescopes, the term typically denotes an inspection camera that lacks fibre-optic technology. Consequently, borescopes are often rigid, though they can sometimes offer a more cost-effective solution compared to their fibre-optic counterparts.
• Endoscope: The term “endoscope” specifically refers to an inspection camera designed for medical applications, intended for use within the human body.

Key Features to Consider When Purchasing an Inspection Camera

When selecting an inspection camera, consider these critical features to ensure it meets your specific needs:

• Image resolution: Higher resolution provides clearer and more detailed images, which is crucial for accurate and effective inspections. Always prioritise HD resolution if image clarity is paramount.
• Probe diameter and length: Choose a probe with the appropriate diameter to access the specific areas you need to inspect. A probe that is too thick may not fit into tight spaces. Similarly, select a probe length that is sufficient to reach the intended inspection area.
• Lighting: Adequate illumination is vital for clear visibility in dark or dimly lit environments. Ensure the camera has a built-in light source, preferably with adjustable brightness.
• Durability: The inspection camera should be robust enough to withstand the conditions of its intended use. Consider factors like water resistance, impact resistance, and cable flexibility.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying an Inspection Camera

To ensure you acquire an inspection camera that effectively meets your needs, avoid these common mistakes:

• Ignoring image quality: Choosing a camera with low resolution can result in blurry or unclear images, rendering the inspection ineffective. Prioritise high-definition (HD) resolution if image clarity is essential for your application.
• Overlooking probe size and length: Selecting an inappropriate probe size and length can limit the camera's utility. A probe that's too thick may not fit into tight spaces, while one that's too short may not reach the desired inspection area. Carefully assess the accessibility requirements of your inspection tasks.
• Ignoring waterproof ratings: If you intend to use the camera in wet environments, such as plumbing, HVAC, or outdoor applications, ensure it has a suitable IP rating. Inadequate water resistance can lead to damage and malfunction.

Commercial and Industrial Applications of Inspection Cameras

Inspection cameras are valuable tools across a wide range of industries, enabling efficient and non-destructive inspection of various equipment and structures.

• Medical: Endoscopes, a type of inspection camera, are used in medical procedures to examine internal organs and cavities. They aid in diagnosis and minimally invasive surgeries, providing enhanced visualisation for doctors.
• Mechanical: Flexible inspection cameras allow engineers to inspect the internal workings of machinery without extensive disassembly. This facilitates efficient maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair, minimising downtime.
• Plumbing: Waterproof inspection cameras, often with long, flexible probes, are essential for plumbers to investigate pipes and drains. They help to locate blockages, leaks, and other issues, enabling targeted and effective repairs.
• Pest Control: Inspection cameras, particularly those with built-in LED lights, allow pest control professionals to access and assess difficult-to-reach areas, such as wall cavities and attics, to identify infestations and plan appropriate treatment strategies.
• Discrete Manufacturing: Inspection cameras are used to inspect welds, castings, and other manufactured components for defects, ensuring quality control and product integrity.
• Process Manufacturing: These cameras inspect pipelines, tanks, and other equipment in process industries, such as chemical and pharmaceutical, for corrosion, fouling, or other issues.
• Energy & Utilities: Inspection cameras are essential for inspecting power plant equipment, pipelines, and other infrastructure, ensuring safety and preventing failures.
• Facilities & Intralogistics: Inspection cameras are used to inspect HVAC systems, ducts, and other building infrastructure, facilitating maintenance and troubleshooting.

Your Trusted Inspection Cameras Supplier & Manufacturer

RS is a leading supplier and distributor of inspection cameras in Australia. We offer a comprehensive selection of high-quality inspection cameras, including borescope cameras, probe cameras, and camera probes with light, from trusted brands like Omron, Fluke, and RS PRO.

We also carry other tools, such as hole saws and work gloves, to provide comprehensive solutions for various applications. Order your inspection cameras online today. For more details on our ordering process, delivery services, and delivery fees, please refer to our Delivery Page.