The Different Types of Flexible Borescope

Unlike the rigid borescopes which can only view images from a straight pathway, a flexible borescope can bend and navigate through corners or crevices with ease. There are two different types of this instrument available, a fiberscope that transmits its images over a distance using fiber optic cables, and a video scope that uses a CCD sensor in order to transmit the images. The following is a brief overview of the different options you have when you are in the market for a flexible borescope as well as an explanation of the terminology that is typically associated with these instruments. Among the many different types of flexible borescope on the market, there is the articulating fiberscope, the non-articulating fiberscope, and the video scope. The articulating fiberscope features a fully bendable insertion probe that is used to move in and around corners allowing you to inspect objects that can’t be reached in a straight path. They also can move the working end two or four different ways and they are controlled by a knob or lever that is located on the body of the device. There are many different grades of this product available, with the higher quality models fetching a higher price. The next type of flexible borescope that we will look at is the non-articulating fiberscope. What makes these different from the articulating models is that they do not have any means of controlling the working end. So you will only want to consider purchasing this model if you do not have the need to steer or move the tip. They are offered in a wide range of diameters from 0.5mm to 9mm.  This leaves us with the video scope that unlike the fiber scope which uses a fiber bundle to transmit images instead uses a CCD sensor. This sensor is installed on the working end and as a result this type of flexible borescope offers a quality and resolution that is superior to the fiberscope. These usually have a larger diameter as well which can vary in size from 3.5mm to 10.3mm. Some models do offer you control over the working end, while others do not so this is something you will want to take into consideration before buying. In addition to these three types of flexible borescope, there are also some specialty models available as well. One example of this is the weld-i which is made specifically for inspecting welding work and high purity piping in order to determine its integrity. This handy tool will allow you to carefully examine entire assemblies at one time which will make the job easier and faster than ever before. Hopefully this article has helped you to understand the many different types of flexible borescope that are currently available so you can purchase the one that is best for the projects you need it for.