Can thermal cameras see through metal?

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Thermal imaging cameras (like the thermal camera phone) are great tools for detecting temperature variations, but there's a common misconception about their ability to see through objects. So, can they see through metal?

The answer is generally no. Thermal cameras work by detecting infrared radiation, which is invisible to the naked eye. Most metals are opaque to infrared radiation, meaning the rays can't pass through and the camera can't see what's behind the metal.

Here's a breakdown:

• Solid Metal: A solid block of metal acts like a barrier, blocking the infrared radiation and preventing the camera from seeing what's on the other side.
• Reflective Surfaces: Polished metal surfaces behave like mirrors for infrared radiation. They reflect the camera's own thermal signature or the surrounding environment, making it difficult to get accurate temperature readings.

Are There Exceptions?

There are a few situations where metal might not completely block a thermal camera's view:

• Thin Metal: Very thin sheets of metal might allow some infrared radiation to pass through, creating a faint image on the other side.
• Conductive Heat Transfer: Highly conductive metals can transfer heat readily. If there's a heat source behind a metal object, the metal itself might conduct and emit this heat on its surface, creating a temperature difference detectable by the camera. This wouldn't show you what's behind the metal, but it could reveal the presence of a heat source.
• Non-Reflective Surfaces: Rough, oxidized, or painted metals might not reflect infrared radiation as strongly, allowing some temperature reading.

Questions people also ask about thermography:

• Can thermal cameras see through clothes?
• Can thermal cameras see through walls like in movies?
• Can thermal cameras see through glass?
• What's the thermal camera price?
• Can I use my phone as a thermal camera?
• How infrared thermography camera used for home inspection?
• Is thermal imaging worth it for a home inspection?
• How accurate is a thermal scanner?
• Can a thermal camera detect moisture level of the topsoil?
• Can thermal cameras detect water leaks?
• Can thermal cameras detect hidden cameras?
• Infrared vs thermal camera, what are the differences
• Can thermal cameras see through glass?
• Can thermal cameras see through concrete?
• Can FLIR cameras see through fog?

In Conclusion

Thermal imaging cameras are a valuable tool, but they can't see through solid metal. However, they can be helpful in certain situations involving metal, such as detecting heat transfer or temperature variations on the metal surface itself.