Borescope Inspection

Borescope is a video camera on an articulated tube which can be used to inspect inside of components such as pipe work, tanks, vessels, and tubes. The images/video can be saved and stored for analysis and future reference.

Borescope inspection, often spelled as “borescope inspection,” is a non-destructive testing (NDT) method that involves the use of a borescope—an optical device with a flexible tube and an eyepiece or camera at one end. Borescope inspection is employed to visually inspect and assess the condition of areas that are difficult to reach or view directly. This method is widely used in various industries, including aviation, automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing.

Here are key features and aspects of borescope inspection.

Flexible Tube:

The borescope consists of a flexible tube that can be maneuvered into tight or inaccessible spaces. The tube may be rigid or semi-rigid, allowing it to be directed around corners, through pipes, or into other confined areas.

Lighting:

To illuminate the area under inspection, borescopes are equipped with built-in lighting systems. This is crucial for obtaining clear images or video footage, especially in dark or poorly lit environments.

Articulating Tip:

Some borescopes have an articulating tip, allowing the distal end to be steered in various directions. This feature enhances the flexibility and versatility of the borescope for navigating complex geometries.

Applications

Borescope inspection is applied in a wide range of industries for various purposes, including inspecting aircraft engines, checking the internal components of automotive engines, examining pipes and welds in industrial settings, and assessing the condition of structures or equipment in manufacturing.

Documentation:

Borescope inspections can be recorded using the attached camera, providing valuable documentation of the condition of the inspected components. This documentation can be used for analysis, reporting, and compliance purposes.

Optical System:

The distal end (the end that goes into the inspected area) of the borescope contains an optical system, which may include lenses, lighting, and a camera. The optical system allows for the visualization of the internal conditions of the inspected area.

Visual Inspection:

Borescope inspection is primarily a visual inspection method. It allows inspectors to directly observe the condition of surfaces, welds, components, and other features inside machinery, pipelines, engines, or other enclosed structures. Remote Operation
Many modern borescopes are designed for remote operation. They may have an attached camera at the distal end, allowing inspectors to view images or videos on a monitor outside the inspected area. This is particularly useful for situations where direct human access is challenging.

Routine Maintenance

Borescope inspection is often used as part of routine maintenance procedures to identify issues, such as wear and tear, corrosion, or foreign object debris, before they escalate into more significant problems.

Limitations:

While borescope inspection is a powerful tool for visual assessment in challenging environments, it may have limitations such as limited depth of field, potential for distortion in images, and difficulty inspecting very small features.

Borescope inspection is a valuable method for conducting non-destructive visual assessments in areas that are difficult to access through conventional means. It plays a crucial role in preventive maintenance, quality control, and troubleshooting in a variety of industries.