Kaiweets' KTI-W01 Thermal Imaging Camera offers ultra-high resolution, thermal sensitivity up to 50 mk, and a temperature resolution up to roughly 1 degree F. The camera features a wide temperature range of -4 degrees F to 1,022 degrees F and offers infrared, visible light, and fusion image modes. It can also connect to a Windows PC with a USB cord for analysis, and the camera supports one-touch photo viewing and video recording. The KTI-W01 includes a built-in 3,500mAh rechargeable Li-ion battery that can support 6 to 8 hours of continuous work.
We asked Missy Albin, a master techncian at International dealer Taylor and Lloyd, to give the camera a whirl and come back to us with her thoughts. Here's what she had to say:
Fleet Maintenance: Have you ever used a thermal imager to diagnose truck issues before?
Missy Albin: I had always wanted a thermal imager after playing with everyone else's over the years. I was always fascinated by this technology as you can use it for so many purposes in and out of the shop, but I had no idea how useful.
FM: What was your first experience like using it on the job?
MA: Just like a kid with a new toy, I took it out of the box and I went around the shop, pushing every button so I could see what it did. Then I had a fuel job come in. I didn’t expect to use it on this job, but I actually did. I had a crank no start and grabbed the imager, and on the high-pressure fuel rail, you could see on the imager the fuel restriction in the high-pressure relief valve. It was a quick and easy diag that I would otherwise have had to hook up numerous lines to verify return flow. The part was replaced and it fired right up. In the same day, I found a shorted battery cell. That’s really something to see!
FM: How long did it take to get a feel for it?
MA: It doesn’t take long. I think it's just about finding your preference. I have used this on several jobs in order to help me through my diagnostics: Cold cylinders, DEF line heaters, fuel restrictions in high-pressure fuel pressure relief valves, Exhaust DPF and SCR’s, batteries and shorted cells, bad electrical connections, overheating issues, plugged radiators, non-functioning thermostats, temperature sensors reading incorrectly, and heated mirrors, just to name a few.
FM: What comes in the box and how is it powered?
MA: The camera is powered by a USB cable that plugs into your computer, which is also part of the charger that comes with the thermal camera.
FM: Talk about the ease of use and the features you noticed.
MA: The buttons are more clearly marked than other tools I’ve used with word desciptions. That gave me less anxiety when I’m actually using the tool. You can change the thermal image color palette spectrum from a regular look, like you’re looking through a camera, to several different settings of thermal colors. Just by clicking the button you can choose the one that best fits your situation.
The other feature I love is video recording. This was so much fun to use because when I have an event going on like something shorting out, or using it on a running engine for fuel diagnostics, all I did was record it and I got to see the thermal image video which is really impressive, especially when you have things shorting or heating up beyond visibility.
FM: How robust was it for heavy-duty trucking use? How is it stored to make sure it does not get damaged?
MA: I definitely don’t want to drop this, but I have knocked it around a bit and it’s okay. I keep this on my diagnostic tool cart in its original packaging. The box is thick and durable with a magnetic flip-top lid and a very nice rectangular protective storage case that the camera sits in.
FM: Do you see this as something you will use in the future?
MA: I use this daily, so yes. It is a staple on my diagnostic tool cart next to my multimeter and flashlight. I feel like I’m always on an adventure trying to find new ways to use this tool. I find myself quite often running to get the tool out of excitement, then giggling and running back to the job… I'm always very excited to put the video on and record something purposeful that’s going to help me through my diagnostic process.
FM: What features do you wish it had to make it more useful?
MA: I feel that it would be better if I didn’t have to limit my temperature setting to either one or the other. So the first temperature range goes from -20 to 120 degrees Celsius on the low setting, and 120 to 550 degrees Celsius on the high setting. I wish the temperature setting was just one setting from -20 through 550 degrees Celsius so I wouldn’t achieve an out-of-limit when I go past the max temperature on the low setting if I'm using it for a higher temperature situation like exhaust.
FM: Final thoughts?
MA: Don’t forget to lift the lens cover! This tool is definitely a staple in your home and work toolbox, and a must-have for diagnostics.
