UNIQUE APPLICATIONS A Round-up of Thermal in Action
We often discuss thermal imaging as a tool for particular industries: whether it's the advantages of infrared sensors in traffic or security cameras—regardless of the weather—or the value of thermal data for determining asset health in a predictive maintenance routine. But for some users, thermal imaging cameras provide the insight needed to solve unique challenges. Here's just a taste of some of the applications we've learned about this year. Plus, see our 60-year history of infrared innovations!
Infrared Breakthroughs
Revealing the Hidden Heat: How Flir Empowers Advanced NiTi Alloy Research at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Researchers are using high-speed infrared cameras to advance studies of nickel-titanium (NiTi) shape memory alloys—materials that change shape with temperature.
When traditional thermocouples failed to capture the alloys’ non-uniform thermal behavior under stress, researchers turned to a Flir X8580 Series cooled infrared camera. Its ability to record full-field, high-resolution data helped reveal microstructure-driven temperature variations during mechanical loading cycles.
Hidden Wavelength
Painting with Heat: Artist Uses Flir Cameras to Make and Display His Heated Thermal Canvas
Artist and scientist Márton Mogyorósi is transforming the world of interactive art with his exhibit Hidden Wavelength: Contemporary Scenes in Infrared.
Using a Flir T1020 high-definition handheld camera and a Flir Edge Pro, Mogyorósi captures vibrant thermal scenes and recreates them on a heated steel canvas equipped with copper plates and cooling fans. Visitors can view the hidden thermal image through the Flir camera while also feeling its warmth, creating a multisensory experience.
Cooling Revolution
Advancing Electrocaloric Research with Flir Thermal Imaging at Queen’s University Belfast
Researchers in Ireland are advancing electrocaloric research thanks to a Flir A8583 cooled MWIR camera, a 5x microscopic optic, and Research Studio software. This high-speed, high resolution system enabled real-time observations of temperature fluctuations in dielectric materials under electric fields.
Dielectric materials are crucial for developing solid-state cooling technologies. By capturing transient thermal changes, the team can gain insights that support innovations in electronics cooling and sustainable refrigeration.
Gaining a Thermal Edge
Flir T540 Thermography Camera Helps Students Develop Racing Cars
The Nihon University Engine Association is leveraging Flir technology to boost racing car performance in Japan’s Student Formula competitions.
Initially used for tire temperature analysis and brake monitoring, the team's Flir T540 thermal camera proved invaluable for engine tuning. They were able to correlate exhaust system heat patterns with power output data, fine-tuning combustion for maximum efficiency while avoiding engine damage. Combined with advanced suspension design and rigorous testing, these innovations helped showcase how thermal imaging drives precision engineering in motorsports.
Muffler manifold temperature, before (above) and post-ignition timing adjustment (below).
Habitat Heat Made Simple
How to Use a Thermal Camera to Find the Best Basking Lamp Distance and Water Temperature for Red-Eared Sliders, Other Turtles and Terrapins
Keeping turtles healthy means getting basking and water temperatures just right—and the Flir Edge Pro thermal camera makes it easy.
Our guide covers how thermal imaging can eliminate guesswork when setting basking lamp distance and monitoring water temperature for red-eared sliders and other reptiles.
By providing accurate, real-time heat readings, the Flir Edge Pro helps owners maintain ideal conditions and ensures better digestion, metabolism, and overall turtle well-being.
The Path to Zero Poaching
Flir and WWF Donate Truck Mounted Thermal Cameras to Stop Poaching in Kenya
Efforts by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and Flir to combat African wildlife poaching continue to deter attacks on wildlife within Kenyan conservancies such as Ol Pejeta. Thermal imaging—proven superior to radar and night vision in 2015 tests—enables rangers to detect poachers even in dense vegetation and darkness.
Click the link to watch our short documentary on WWF and Flir's more than 10-year partnership in protecting wildlife in Kenya.
Celebrating 60 Years of Infrared Innovations
None of the above would be possible without the many advances in thermal imaging technology we've seen since our company began producing commercial infrared in 1965. As we wrap up 2025, we're taking a look back at our innovation timeline.
