Handheld instruments
As the thermal image comes into view, patterns begin to emerge: a hotspot here, an unexpected temperature difference there. This is the point at which a routine scan can turn into something requiring further attention.
The technician does not assess that reading in isolation. They compare it against similar components, other phases or normal operating conditions, taking into account factors such as load, ambient conditions and asset criticality. The camera’s temperature-difference analysis and configurable alerts help sharpen that judgement, distinguishing genuinely abnormal conditions from normal variation. From there, the decision takes shape: continue monitoring, carry out further testing or take corrective action.
With the ii01, the process follows a similar logic, though the starting point is different. The technician connects the camera and begins scanning for sound sources. SoundMap overlays the apparent source of a sound directly onto the live image, making it possible to visualise and locate a leak or fault that would otherwise go undetected. Switching to Leak Mode, the camera automatically selects the appropriate frequency range for compressed-air and gas leak detection, removing much of the guesswork from the process.
As the technician narrows in on the source, a real-time decibel reading at the centre of the target provides a clearer sense of severity, adding a measurable dimension to the assessment. They can then capture images or video on the spot, creating a record that can be shared with the wider team. In both cases, the workflow is the same: observe, investigate, assess and document. The important shift is that imaging becomes part of the technician’s daily decision-making process, supporting routine triage, prioritisation and evidence-based follow-up rather than sitting apart as a separate specialist activity.
The TC03A offers SuperResolution up to 768 × 576. What difference does that level of detail make in practice, and where is it particularly useful?
Justin Sheard: SuperResolution gives technicians a clearer thermal image, making it easier to spot small hotspots and subtle temperature differences that can be missed at lower resolution. In maintenance, better image detail is not just about seeing more – it is about making better decisions on what requires attention and what can be monitored over time.
That is particularly useful in electrical, mechanical and process inspections, where small changes in heat patterns can provide an early indication that attention may be needed. Combined with manual focus, the TC03A gives technicians flexibility across different targets, from close-up electronic components to equipment viewed from a greater distance.
Instrumentation Monthly October 2026
The ii01 can detect leaks from up to 50 metres away, depending on conditions. What opportunities does this open up for inspecting larger facilities or hard-to-reach equipment?
Justin Sheard: A detection range of up to 50 metres, depending on leak strength and site conditions, allows technicians to screen larger areas before moving closer to confirm a finding. In facilities with elevated pipework, densely installed equipment or restricted access, teams can scan from a safe, accessible position and use the SoundMap overlay to focus follow-up work. For larger facilities, that changes the inspection model: teams can screen first, then focus hands-on work where the evidence points them.
That can reduce time spent checking individual connections and help direct ladders, lifts or hands-on inspection to locations where a potential leak has already been identified. It is particularly useful for initial screening and routine spot checks, while recognising that practical detection distance will vary with leak strength, background noise and other environmental conditions.
Can you describe a typical example of how identifying a leak or thermal issue could help save energy, reduce costs or prevent downtime?
Justin Sheard: A typical example would be a compressed-air leak in elevated or densely installed pipework that has gone unnoticed during routine checks. Using the ii01, a technician can scan from an accessible position, visualise the apparent sound source, capture its location and direct the repair team to the right connection. Repairing the leak helps reduce continued energy loss and avoids time spent checking every fitting manually.
The same principle applies to thermal inspection. If the TC03A identifies one connection running noticeably hotter than comparable components under similar conditions, the technician can document the finding and schedule further testing or corrective action. That is the broader value of mobile imaging: it helps maintenance teams move from suspected issues to documented evidence, so resources can be focused where they are most likely to make a difference.
How do you see smartphone- based imaging changing the way maintenance teams work over the next few years, and what role will the iSee series play?
Justin Sheard: Over the next few years, smartphone-based imaging will help make advanced inspection less of a specialist event and more of an everyday maintenance capability. By connecting specialist imaging capabilities to devices technicians already use, these tools can make thermal and acoustic inspections easier to access, capture and share as part of routine work. That matters because more technicians can identify potential issues, document evidence at the point of inspection and move findings into the wider maintenance workflow more quickly. Over time, this can support faster, evidence-based decisions and a more proactive approach to reducing energy waste, prioritising repairs and addressing equipment concerns.
The Fluke iSee Mobile Series supports this shift by bringing different imaging capabilities into a consistent mobile workflow. With the TC03A and ii01, inspection, analysis, documentation and sharing come together through the Fluke iSee app, putting practical thermal and acoustic imaging capabilities into the hands of more technicians in the field.
Fluke Corporation
www.fluke.com/en-us
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