Choosing the Right Thermal Camera for the Job: Why It Matters More Than You Think

Many people believe that thermal imaging is a one-size-fits-all solution—but that couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, using the wrong type of thermal or infrared camera for a specific inspection can result in completely inaccurate results or missed issues altogether.

At NTR Partners, we understand that different inspection tasks require different spectral bands, sensor sensitivities, and imaging technologies. Whether you're checking a rooftop for water ingress or scanning for gas leaks in a chemical facility, using the correct IR wavelength is critical.

Not All Thermal Cameras Are the Same

There are three common infrared (IR) ranges used in thermal imaging:

• Near-Infrared (NIR): ~0.7 to 1.5 µm

• Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR): ~3 to 5 µm

• Long-Wave Infrared (LWIR): ~8 to 14 µm

Each has different strengths depending on the material, temperature range, and environment.

Example: Detecting Gas Leaks vs. Roof Inspections

Gas Leak Detection:Gases like methane, propane, and SF6 absorb infrared energy in very specific wavelengths—often in the NIR or MWIR range. This means a standard LWIR thermal camera, commonly used for building inspections, won’t detect invisible gas plumes.

To detect gas leaks accurately, you need specialized Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) cameras tuned to the spectral absorption band of the target gas.

Rooftop & Electrical Inspections:These typically require LWIR cameras, which are ideal for detecting surface temperature anomalies, moisture ingress, and overheating components.

How NTR Partners Gets It Right

Caption: Different spectral ranges used in thermal imaging and gas detection

We don’t just show up with a “one-size” infrared camera. At NTR Partners, our team:

• Analyzes the inspection type (e.g., gas, moisture, electrical, structural)

• Selects the appropriate IR camera with the right wavelength sensitivity

• Uses CAAT-certified drones equipped with thermal payloads optimized for the job

• Delivers detailed thermal reports and videos tailored to each client’s needs

Who Needs Specialized IR Imaging?

• Energy Plants & Refineries: Gas leak detection using MWIR/OGI sensors

• Solar Farms: Fault detection with high-resolution LWIR sensors

• Commercial Buildings: Moisture ingress and heat loss using LWIR drones

• Factories & Warehouses: Detect insulation failures, overheating machinery

• High-Rise Developers: Check facade insulation and window sealing from above

Consequences of Using the Wrong Camera

Task	Correct IR Range	Consequence of Wrong Sensor
Gas leak detection	NIR/MWIR	Missed leaks, false sense of safety
Electrical faults	LWIR	Inaccurate temperature readings
Structural heat loss	LWIR	Poor imaging resolution
Solar panel faults	LWIR	Undetected cell damage

We offer custom inspections using different camera payloads mounted on DJI Matrice DONES for large-area industrial sites.

📍 Serving All of Thailand

We offer thermal drone inspections in Bangkok, Phuket, Chonburi, Rayong, and nationwide—with full compliance with CAAT, NBTC, and liability insurance coverage.

Don’t Let the Wrong Camera Give You the Wrong Data

Whether you're a real estate developer, plant operator, or facility manager, make sure your next inspection is done right the first time. Contact NTR Partners