Acoustic Imaging Cameras: Sound Detection for Industry
About Acoustic Cameras
Acoustic cameras are powerful diagnostic tools used across many industries to cut energy costs, prevent equipment breakdowns, and reduce downtime. These devices combine multiple sensitive microphones with advanced imaging software to visualise sound, allowing technicians to pinpoint the exact source of compressed air leaks, partial discharge, or failing mechanical components.
With acoustic imaging cameras, you can:
- Detect pressurised leaks in compressed air systems up to ten times faster than traditional leak detection methods
- Pinpoint partial discharge or corona with high precision in high-voltage systems
- Identify mechanical issues such as faulty bearings or steam trap failures through sound mapping
Why Microphones Matter
More Microphones, Better Accuracy
The performance of an acoustic camera is directly tied to its microphone array. A single microphone captures both useful signals and background noise. By increasing the number of microphones, the signal-to-noise ratio improves, making even the smallest leaks or faintest mechanical problems easier to detect.
Extended Detection Range
Higher microphone counts also extend the effective frequency range and overall detection distance. Quadrupling the microphones roughly doubles how far sound can be detected. This lets maintenance teams work from a safe distance, avoiding interruptions to production or exposure to hazardous areas.
Strategic Placement
Microphone placement is crucial. Acoustic imaging cameras use circular or spiral microphone arrays to achieve precise directional sensitivity. This allows technicians to isolate sound sources with accuracy, distinguishing between a leaking valve, a cracked connector, or an electrical fault.
Who Benefits from Acoustic Cameras?
Pulp & Paper
Energy accounts for up to 20% of costs in pulp and paper manufacturing. Compressed air leaks are common, especially in ageing infrastructure. Acoustic cameras help operators quickly find and repair leaks, keeping systems efficient and supporting sustainability goals.
Food & Beverage
Compressed air powers automation, cleaning, and packaging. Leaks not only waste energy but also risk contamination and reduced line efficiency. In noisy, complex plants, acoustic cameras provide clear visual confirmation, making them vital for predictive maintenance, quality assurance, and accurate leak detection.
Automotive
In automotive manufacturing, compressed air supports stamping, painting, welding, and robotics. Systems run continuously, so reliability is critical. Traditional ultrasonic tools often fail in loud plants. Acoustic imaging cameras cut through background noise, detect faults in real time, and reduce costly compressed air waste.
Mining
Mining operations depend on compressed air for drilling, ventilation, and safety systems. Failures can endanger workers and disrupt production. Acoustic cameras identify leaks and mechanical issues in dusty or hazardous environments without the need to halt operations.
Manufacturing Applications
- Tyre production: Steam and nitrogen leaks during curing compromise quality and lead to rejected tyres. Acoustic cameras detect pressure losses early, reducing waste and improving profitability.
- Cement plants: Extreme heat can warp equipment, causing undetected leaks that raise fuel consumption. Acoustic imaging helps maintain kiln efficiency, cut energy costs, and lower environmental impact.
Utilities
Utility providers use acoustic imaging cameras to detect partial discharge in high-voltage equipment. Left unchecked, PD can cause fires, outages, or costly breakdowns. These cameras allow engineers to visually locate PD in real time—even outdoors or at height - without direct contact. Their intuitive design makes frequent inspections easy, supporting safer and more reliable networks.
Why Choose Acoustic Imaging Cameras?
Across industries, acoustic cameras are transforming maintenance. Their wide frequency range, high detection accuracy, and intuitive sound mapping make them versatile tools for spotting compressed air leaks, partial discharge, and mechanical anomalies. By adopting this technology, businesses save energy, reduce unplanned downtime, and extend equipment life.
Book a demonstration today to see how acoustic imaging cameras can improve efficiency, cut costs, and strengthen operational resilience in your facility.
Ready to Move Forward?
Get the right thermal solution at the right price - contact us now for a fast, competitive quote.
💬 Talk to the Experts
Our team is ready to discuss your requirements. Get straightforward advice, proven performance, and reliable solutions that work.
📍 Want to See It in Action?
We’ll bring the demo to you. Book a live on-site demonstration and see our test equipment perform in real-world conditions.