Fiberscopes Information

Fiberscopes are flexible borescopes that use fiber optic technology, an eyepiece at one end, and a lens at the other to inspect bores and cavities. They house fiber optic bundles in a flexible tube that allows users to change the viewing angle or navigate curved paths. Fiberscopes are sometimes used to inspect engines, turbines, and straight lengths of pipe, but are especially well-suited for medical, machining, computer forensic, and law enforcement applications. Because they are flexible, fiberscopes are also used in medical procedures and to examine curved lengths of pipe. These inspection devices provide high-quality images. 

Fiberscopes differ in terms of product specifications for tube or sheath diameter, working length, field of view, minimum focus distance, and operating temperature. Tube or sheath diameter determines the smallest-sized hole into which a fiberscope can be inserted. It is the diameter of the probe that is inserted into the hole or cavity for visual inspection. Working length is the length of this probe. It effectively determines the depth of the device's inspection capability.  

Tip specifications are important to consider when selecting fiberscopes. There are several choices for viewing angle. Direct-viewing devices are designed for straight-on viewing. Visual inspection tools that are described as forward oblique have viewing angles between 0° and 90°. They offer a combination of forward navigation and side visibility.  Fiberscopes with side viewing permit the visual inspection of greater detail on bore or cylinder walls. Devices with a retrospective or backward oblique viewing angle are also available.  

Additional parameters for fiberscopes include depth of field, eyepiece magnification, resolution, light-source connection, length of light guide, pressure rating, and materials of construction. Often, the insertion tube sheathing is tungsten braid and the handpiece is made of aluminum. 

Fiberscopes differ in terms of available features. Some devices are equipped with a simple mount for a camera to augment or replace visual inspection. Others feature an integral video display and/or other video capabilities. Fiberscopes with a working channel permit the use of tools such as hooks, scrapers, and retrieval tips. Products that are equipped with a transmitter or other device enable users, operators and other personnel to identify their location.