Maintaining industrial storage tanks is a major responsibility for facility managers and technicians. It is crucial for operating a safe and hazard-free work environment in compliance with government regulations. That’s why checks or inspections are scheduled to preserve or restore them to peak functionality.
However, these delicate tasks require a sophisticated technological gadget. This is where inspection cameras enter.
A tank inspection camera allows professionals to ascertain the condition of an industrial tank from the outside using cable-like, remote-controlled cameras. Since these gadgets are unlike everyday digital cameras, it can be tricky to know the right one to choose.
Therefore, this guide will help you identify eight ways to select the best camera for tank inspection.
1. Consider Camera Monitor Screen Size
Modern tank inspection cameras have external monitors or tablets for remote maneuvering. The monitors come in various screen sizes. The small sizes range from 3.5 to 5 inches, while the medium and large sizes are typically 7 and 9 inches.
Thus, you must consider different factors before choosing a tank inspection camera based on screen size. Consider the portability, ease of use in a tight space, and convenience of working with a team.
Although smaller screens give the least viewing comfort, they are portable and easy to maneuver. Meanwhile, the larger screen sizes give you an immersive viewing experience but are not as flexible or handy.
2. Check Design
Tank inspection cameras come in different sizes and shapes that determine how well you use them.
While some designs may be more fancy than others, it’s best to prioritize ease of use. To choose the right one, check the weight distribution. Check to see if the weight enables you to move freely and comfortably. Also, consider your dexterity.
Furthermore, the camera grip is also a crucial design feature, which will depend on the size of your palm. Pick one that fits your grip seamlessly to enable balance and steadiness.
3. Understand Connectivity Options
Cameras have two major connectivity options: wired or wireless (pole handle). Although no option is better than the other, your choice can impact how well you utilize them as they both have features that can benefit you depending on your preferences.
Consider their pros and cons concerning what you want to achieve. For instance, a wired camera may have a longer reach but experience mobility issues. Whereas, pole handle inspection cameras have little mobility restrictions.
The camera head comes with a motorized assembly on the pole for easy remote positioning. You can move them across different angles with little limitations. However, they are more prone to signal interference and don’t reach long distances.
4. Check Warranty
Buying an inspection camera is an investment. However, accidents happen, which may diminish the functionality of the equipment. Moreover, the fear of damaging it can impact your productivity, stopping you from taking calculated risks for high rewards.
This is why you must consider the warranty before buying the item.
When an unforeseen incident hampers the camera’s functionality, warranties can help you correct the problems without additional costs. It also proves the vendor or manufacturer’s commitment to customer satisfaction.
5. Explore Customer Reviews
When choosing an inspection camera, you want to be sure it’s the right one. However, there’s no guarantee that it will meet all your expectations without trying it.
Thus, you must get information from those who bought the equipment. A study shows that over 99.9% of shoppers read customer reviews before making a purchase. That said, there’s no better place to look for information on a purchase than an online review page or platform.
The information here can help you avoid expensive errors while suggesting better options. In addition to reading reviews, you may watch unboxing reviews online where content creators in your field share their thoughts on specific products. This can also help you learn more about the inspection camera you want to get.
6. Create Budget
In addition to quality and ease of use, the cost of the product can determine whether you purchase it. The cost of an inspection camera varies and can be a deciding factor in getting one. Therefore it’s advisable to make a budget to help you spend within your means.
Research the prices of your preferred camera model and check multiple online stores to compare prices.
Your level of professionalism should also determine how much cash you’re willing to splash on the gadget. For beginner or personal use, consider an inspection camera with the basic functionalities. You will find some for less than $50. Meanwhile a professional will need an inspection camera with advanced functions that will cost significantly higher.
7. Consider Lighting Specifications
A well-lit environment tends to produce clearer and higher-quality images. However, industrial tank interiors are typically dark. Thus, if you work in predominantly dark spaces, prioritize the LED lighting capacity of the camera.
Inspection cameras come in various lighting capabilities and settings. Therefore, you must choose models with advanced brightness settings and shadowless lighting capabilities for capturing well-lit images. Ensure your final selection has up to 6 bright, high-intensity LEDs.
8. Consider the Nature of the Task
One of the vital things to consider when choosing the right inspection camera is the task at hand. This consideration does not only enhance its functionality but also helps to keep it in good condition. For example, a water tank or pipe will have a wet interior. This implies that a water-resistant camera would be ideal for protection during inspection. Thus, ensure the camera is resistant to dust, heat, and water before choosing it.
Conclusion
Inspection cameras are efficient for capturing images in tight or enclosed spaces. From electrical to plumbing endeavors, these cameras make life easy for technicians. They come in various models from different brands, making it tricky to pick the right one.
However, choosing the ideal camera for your tank inspection is a crucial exercise that must be well-thought-through. Consider your budget, mobile device compatibility, and customer reviews when choosing one.
Lighting specifications and design are also important factors in expertly capturing the best images. Get your gadget from a reputable merchant with warranty protection and customer service dedicated to assisting you.