Acoustic Camera Inspection

Acoustic camera inspection is an advanced, non-contact diagnostic method that uses arrays of highly sensitive microphones combined with visual imaging to locate, visualize, and quantify sound sources. The technology transforms acoustic signals into visual images, enabling users to “see” sound and identify problems that are otherwise invisible to the naked eye.

This method is increasingly used in predictive maintenance, energy efficiency audits, and safety inspections across industrial sectors.

Principle of Operation

An acoustic camera works by combining data from:

A microphone array (often 64–200 microphones) that captures sound waves.
A camera lens that provides a real-world visual image.
Using beamforming algorithms, the device calculates the direction and intensity of sound sources and overlays a color-coded sound map on the visual image — showing where noise or leaks originate.
Red/Yellow areas → high sound intensity (potential defect)
Blue areas → low or background noise
This allows technicians to pinpoint exact fault locations from a safe distance, even in noisy environments.

Typical Inspection Applications

Category	Description	Examples
Compressed air & Gas Leak Detection	Detects small to large leaks by capturing high-frequency ultrasonic emissions.	Compressed air systems, nitrogen, oxygen, steam, CO₂, vacuum lines
Steam & Vacuum Leak Detection	Identifies leaks in steam traps, condensate systems, and vacuum circuits.	Power plants, chemical facilities
Electrical Partial Discharge Detection	Detects corona, tracking, or arcing that emit ultrasonic noise.	High-voltage switchgear, transformers, busbars
Mechanical Fault Diagnosis	Identifies abnormal friction or impact sounds from bearings, fans, or valves.	Rotating machines, pumps, gearboxes

Advantages of Acoustic Camera Inspection

Benefit	Explanation
Non-contact & Safe	Detects faults from several meters away — no need to shut down or touch the equipment.
Fast & Accurate	Pinpoints the exact source of leaks or discharges within seconds.
Works in Noisy Environments	Can isolate ultrasonic frequencies even in loud industrial areas.
Energy Saving	Detects compressed air or steam losses that increase operating costs.
Preventive Maintenance	Early fault detection reduces downtime and equipment failure.
Visual Documentation	Generates clear visual reports (photo + sound overlay) for easy understanding and reporting.