Performance of Thermal Imaging Cameras in High Temperature Environments.
Performance of Thermal Imaging Cameras in High
Temperature Environments.
(856 K)
Donnelly, M. K.; Davis, W. D.; Selepak, M. J.
NIST TN 1491; NIST Technical Note 1491; 17 p. November
2007.
Keywords:
thermal imaging; cameras; high tempeature; electronic
equipment; tests; velocity; tempeature measurements;
fire fighters; fire fighting; fire fighting equipment;
time; exposure
Abstract:
Thermal imaging cameras used by firefighters and other
emergency responders must maintain acceptable image
quality while operating in the severe conditions of a
fire environment. Currently, there are no standard
performance metrics for these cameras. This work
investigates the impact of elevated temperatures on the
operation of three different thermal imaging cameras. A
heated air flow loop was used to provide the elevated
thermal environment, and a variable temperature target
served as a viewing object. Results of the testing are
presented.
Building and Fire Research Laboratory
National Institute of Standards and Technology
Gaithersburg, MD 20899