Category: Articles

  • FLIR K-Series: See Through the Smoke, Save Lives with Certainty

    Introducing the FLIR K-Series Thermal Imaging Cameras – the ultimate tools in firefighter safety and performance. Designed to withstand extreme heat, deliver crystal-clear thermal visuals, and empower teams to make faster, smarter decisions in the most dangerous environments.

    Every Second Counts. Every Pixel Matters, Built for the intensity of the Fireground.

    Why Firefighters Choose FLIR:
    • Sharp, colour-enhanced thermal imaging
    • Withstands extreme heat (up to 260°C)
    • Drop-tested and IP67-rated
    Built for real operations – not lab conditions with:
    • High-resolution thermal sensors (up to 320×240)
    • Heat-resistant (up to 500°F / 260°C)
    • Glove-friendly controls & intuitive design
    • FLIR FSX™ Image Enhancement for sharper detail
    • Water & impact-resistant (IP67, 2 m drop-tested)
    Choose Your In-field Advantage:
    ModelBest ForResolution
    FLIR K1Command support & inspection160×120
    FLIR K2Entry-level TIC for teams160×120
    FLIR K33/K45Fast-deploy frontline tools240×180
    FLIR K55High performance, video recording320×240
    FLIR K65Fully NFPA® 1801-compliant320×240
  • Mining and Technical Exhibitions (MTE) in 2025

    Catch Yellotec at MTE Expos in 2025!

    Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with Yellotec at this year’s Mining and Technical Exhibitions (MTE) across the country. Visit our stand for live product demonstrations and expert insights into Reliability and Online Condition Monitoring, delivered by seasoned industry professionals.

    March

    10 Mar: Letlhakane, Botswana

    12 Mar: Palapye, Botswana

    14 Mar: Jwaneng, Botswana

    April

    08 Apr: Brits, North West

    10 Apr: Rustenburg, North West

    May

    20 May: Bafokeng, North West

    22 May: Zondereinde, Limpopo

    June

    03 Jun: Saiccor, KZN

    05 Jun: Richards Bay, KZN

    19 Jun: Phalaborwa, Limpopo

    July

    08 Jul: Hotazel, Northern Cape

    09 Jul: Kathu Golf Day, Northern Cape

    10 Jul: Kathu, Northern Cape

    August

    07 Aug: Ngodwana, Mpumalanga

    September

    15 Sept: Kalumbila, Zambia

    17 Sept: Solwezi, Zambia

    19 Sept: Kitwe, Zambia

    October

    28 Oct: Mponeng, Gauteng

    30 Oct: Sibanye, Gauteng

    November

    11 Nov: Doornkop, Gauteng

    13 Nov: Odendaalsrus, Freestate

    Your Partner in Machine Health and Reliability

    At Yellotec, we’re driven by one goal: improving machine health and operational reliability. We achieve this through a comprehensive range of advanced technologies, including:

    • Online Vibration Analysis
    • Handheld Vibration Solutions
    • Laser Shaft Alignment
    • Thermal Imaging
    • Online Oil Analysis
    • Motion Amplification
    • Electric Motor Testing
    • Ultrasound
    • …and more

    Trusted by Global Technology Leaders

    We proudly represent some of the world’s leading brands in condition monitoring and reliability solutions, including:
    Fluke Reliability, Teledyne FLIR, RDI Technologies Inc., UE SYSTEMS, Mobius Institute, Noria Corporation, Atten2 Deep Monitoring Solutions, PCB Piezotronics, Inc., Gill Sensors & Controls, and others.

  • Lubrication Program Development

    Achieve Lubrication Excellence with Noria’s Proven Ascend™ Methodology

    Reaching lubrication excellence is no longer a vague or unreachable ideal. With Noria’s Ascend™ methodology, organizations gain a clear, structured path to optimizing their lubrication practices. More than just a definition, Ascend™ is a strategic tool that guides teams through evaluating, designing, and executing a transformation plan—becoming the compass that leads the way to world-class lubrication.

    The journey begins by benchmarking current practices against Noria’s Optimum Reference State (ORS) to identify gaps and opportunities. From there, organizations can build a high-impact roadmap, ensuring resources are focused where they deliver the greatest ROI. By aligning improvements with lubricant lifecycle logic and reliability goals, and by measuring progress consistently, teams can sustain meaningful change and drive long-term performance.

    1. Ascend Assessment
    • Get a customised roadmap for quick wins and long-term success, along with training, KPIs, and a detailed report to help you cost-justify improvements.
    1. Engineering Design
    • Noria experts survey your lubricated assets, collecting all the data needed to deliver comprehensive procedures along with lubricant and hardware recommendations.
    1. Program Implementation
    • Noria facilitates the vendor selection and procurement process to outfit your program with equipment and hardware you need to achieve your reliability and maintenance goals.
  • Electric Motor Testing Services

    Yellotec offers advanced services in Motor Circuit Analysis (MCA) and Electrical Signature Analysis (ESA) to ensure the reliability of your electric motors, transformers, and generators.

    Electric motor testing services are essential for maintaining the success and efficiency of your equipment. Utilizing innovative cutting-edge technology, Yellotec’s expert team conducts measurements from Motor Control Centers (MCCs), isolators, and Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs).

    Yellotec recommends Regular Motor Circuit Analysis (MCA) and Electrical Signature Analysis (ESA) for critical motors in use; spare motors in storage; electrical motors that frequently stop/start, electrical motors in harsh environments; and electrical motors with known issues.

    Proudly partnered with ALL-TEST Pro’s electric motor testing equipment, Yellotec delivers comprehensive motor health analyses that surpass standard testing methods, ensuring long-term dependability.

    Contact Yellotec today for advanced motor testing solutions to keep your equipment reliable and efficient.

    Detected Failure Modes:
    • Turn-to-Turn Faults
    • Coil-to-Coil Faults
    • Phase-to-Phase Faults
    • Insulation Failures
    • Open Phases
    • Contamination
    • Faulty Connections
    • Broken or Cracked Rotor Bars
    • Casting Voids
    • Rotor Eccentricity
    • Ground Faults
    • Cable Faults

    Service Recommendations:

    Regular Motor Circuit Analysis (MCA) and Electrical Signature Analysis (ESA) are recommended for:

    • Critical motors in use.
    • Spare motors in storage.
    • Electrical Motors that frequently stop/start.
    • Electrical Motors in harsh environments.
    • Electrical Motors with known issues.

    Contact Yellotec today for advanced motor testing solutions to keep your equipment reliable and efficient. Book your service today by filling in the form below:
  • FLIR Releases Research Studio 2025.01

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    FLIR Releases Research Studio 2025.01: Advancing Thermal Imaging for R&D Professionals

    FLIR, a Teledyne Technologies company, has announced the release of FLIR Research Studio 2025.01, the latest version of its powerful research and development software. Designed for professionals working on the most demanding thermal imaging applications, this updated release introduces a suite of innovative features to streamline workflows, enhance precision, and improve overall efficiency.

    Solving Real-World Research Challenges with Research Studio
    FLIR Research Studio 2025.01 is tailored to address the critical needs of researchers working with thermal data in complex experiments. By enabling seamless multi-camera integration, precise control, and streamlined data management, this update empowers users to focus on solving problems, not navigating software limitations.

    Key Features of FLIR Research Studio 2025.01:

    Multi-Window Capability
    Researchers can now monitor multiple data streams and controls simultaneously on multiple screens, a breakthrough for experiments involving numerous cameras or complex datasets. For example, professionals analyzing thermal variations in components can now connect multiple infrared cameras, overlay data streams, and visualize the full picture in real-time on multiple screens, with 4 quadrants per screen.

    Full Screen Mode
    Perfect for small-screen setups, this feature allows researchers to focus exclusively on critical data. Whether inspecting microscopic electronics or monitoring thermal anomalies, researchers can now declutter their screens and home in on essential details.

    Docking Camera Controller
    Adjusting live infrared images is now more intuitive. The camera controller can be docked into any module, enabling swift tuning across multiple cameras. Researchers analyzing dynamic thermal events—such as battery performance under stress—can make real-time adjustments without interrupting their workflow.

    Hotkey Shortcuts for Critical Tasks
    Designed for maximum efficiency, new hotkeys include:
    – Start SSD Recording: Initiate synchronized recordings with a single keystroke.
    – Focus Control: Quickly sharpen images for optimal clarity.
    – Offset Updates: Streamline uniformity adjustments with the internal NUC flag.

    Enhanced Quick Look Bar
    Organizing and accessing files is easier than ever. Recent recordings are naturally sorted, helping researchers manage complex datasets efficiently.

    Want to See How These Features Can Improve Your Research?
    Read our detailed guide on Mastering Thermal Data Analysis with FLIR Research Studio 2025. This step-by-step breakdown showcases practical ways to get the most out of the new software.

    Ready to Elevate Your Research?
    FLIR Research Studio 2025.01 is built to meet the evolving needs of researchers, whether you’re managing complex datasets, analyzing multiple camera streams, or fine-tuning thermal imaging in real time.

    For more information about FLIR Research Studio 2025.01 and how it can enhance your thermal imaging applications, contact us today!

  • Azima DLI

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    AI-powered vibration analytics and remote condition monitoring that you can rely on. Azima DLI helps you move from reactive to predictive maintenance.

    Predict Failures Months Before They Happen

    In today’s fast-paced industrial landscape, equipment reliability is critical to maintaining efficiency and avoiding costly downtime. With the advent of AI-enabled vibration diagnostics, you can now foresee and avert issues well before they arise. This advanced technology pinpoints faults, predicts time-to-failure, and recommends corrective action, transforming your maintenance strategy from reactive to proactive.


    The Most Advanced Diagnostic Engine Available

    Our AI-powered diagnostic engine is the most sophisticated in the industry, leveraging 30 years of maintenance data. It analyzes over 100 trillion data points across 50 different machinery component types to deliver precise and accurate maintenance analysis. This level of insight allows you to identify potential failures months before they occur, ensuring your operations remain smooth and uninterrupted.

    World-Class Vibration Experts

    Our team of ISO Level II-IV trained analysts, armed with cutting-edge AI tools, are five times more efficient than traditional analysts. This combination of human expertise and AI precision ensures that you receive the most accurate diagnostics and maintenance recommendations. Our experts are dedicated to helping you optimize your machinery’s performance and extend its lifespan.


    Rapid Time-To-Value

    One of the standout features of our AI-enabled vibration diagnostics is the rapid time-to-value. Unlike competitors who require a lengthy 12-18 month setup period, we provide accurate, actionable results from day one. We can get your first machine online within 24 hours, allowing you to immediately benefit from reduced downtime and improved efficiency.

    More Uptime, Lower Costs

    Our solution has helped customers reduce major faults by 90%, lower vibration program costs by 30%, and boost production capacity by 2%. By implementing our advanced diagnostics, you can achieve similar results, leading to more uptime, lower maintenance costs, and increased production output.


    Enterprise Reporting

    Demonstrate the return on investment (ROI) of your reliability program with our comprehensive enterprise reporting. Our executive-level reports detail key saves, identify blind spots, and assess production risks, providing you with a clear picture of your program’s effectiveness and areas for improvement.

    With AI-enabled vibration diagnostics, you can predict failures months before they happen, ensuring your operations remain efficient and cost-effective. Experience the benefits of the most advanced diagnostic engine, world-class expertise, rapid deployment, and comprehensive reporting. Transform your maintenance strategy today and secure a future of uninterrupted productivity.

    Related Product:

    watchman resized

    Azima Watchman AirAccel 310

    Wireless vibration with actionable diagnostics.

    High resolution data allows for the detection of more machine faults, giving users better insights to emerging problems and root causes.

    The Expert Automated Diagnostic System can identify 1,200+ unique fault types on 50+ common machine components using over 6000 diagnostic rules, providing prioritized recommended repair actions on machines meeting the below criteria:

    Prime mover speed from 300 RPM to 6000 Rpm.

    Download Datasheet

  • Electra Mining Africa

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    Visit our stand at Electra Mining 2024: Showcasing Yellotec’s Machine Health and Reliability Solutions.

    Yellotec strives to offer the most effective and efficient technology in all machine health and reliability monitoring equipment. We are excited to announce our participation in the Electra Mining 2024 event, taking place from 2 – 6 September 2024 at the Johannesburg Expo Centre. This premier mining, industrial, construction, and electrical trade show provides a unique platform for industry leaders to showcase cutting-edge technologies, solutions, and services.

    At Electra Mining, Yellotec will present its latest innovations and demonstrate how our solutions can help clients improve efficiency, safety, and sustainability in their operations. We invite all attendees to visit our booth and learn more about how our solutions can meet the evolving needs of the mining and industrial sectors. For more information or to schedule a meeting with our team at the event, please contact info@yellotec.com.

    Date: 2 – 6 September 2024
    Time: 09:00-17:00
    Venue: Johannesburg Expo Centre
    Yellotec stand: Hall 5, D1


    Register to Electra Mining 2024

    Some of our innovative highlights at the exhibition this year will include:

    Ranked as one of the world’s largest mining shows and the biggest mining, manufacturing, automation, electrical, and power trade show in Southern Africa, Electra Mining Africa has a proven track record of driving sales, generating leads, and building brand awareness. They say the trick to seeing the future is knowing where to look. With nearly five decades of accumulated experience since its inaugural show, Electra Mining Africa has built a reputation for being a trade show that adapts to changing times and consistently delivers a strong return on investment for exhibitors, even during challenging economic conditions.

    Yellotec History at Electra Mining

    Electra mining 2010
    Electra Mining 2010

    Electra mining 2012
    Electra Mining 2012

    Electra Mining 2014
    Electra Mining 2014

    electra mining africa 2016
    Electra Mining 2016

    Electra Mining 2018

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    Electra Mining 2022

  • Stator Looseness identified with Electrical Motor Testing

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    Join the Yellotec Webinar and learn how advanced Electrical Motor Testing and Analysis helped a Petrochemical Plant identify potential failures caused by stator looseness.

    Motor Circuit Analysis enables easy detection of pending equipment failure and root causes. Unplanned downtime can be extremely costly, with potential losses reaching up to $22,000 per minute.

    Date and Time:
    • Thursday, 15 August 2024
    • 14h00 SAST

    Recording and Presentation will only be available for Registered Participants

    Agenda:
    • What is Motor Circuit Analysis
    • Why do Motor Circuit Analysis
    • New Technologies for Motor Circuit Analysis
    • Case Study: Detecting Stator Looseness
    • Q&A Session

    Join industry-leading speakers from Yellotec and ALL-Test Pro to gain expert insights into the latest advancements and practical applications in motor diagnostics. This session is designed for professionals seeking to enhance their understanding and skills in Motor Circuit Analysis (MCA) and Electrical Signature Analysis (ESA) to improve reliability.

    Featuring Panel of Speakers:
    Reynhard Heymans
    Reynhard Heymans // Yellotec

    Reynhard Heymans, as a young electrical engineer, was introduced to Thermal Imaging Cameras in 1997 by the legendary Tjaart Broodryk.

    Over the subsequent 18 years, his ardor for Condition Based Maintenance became evident through its diverse applications, encompassing electrical, mechanical, refractory, enterprise risk management, and more. In 2016, he earned a Masters Degree in Business Administration, strategically positioning himself for a transition into New Business Development. Throughout his career evolution, he has maintained valuable partnerships with prominent Global OEM companies like Atten2, Teledyne FLIR, FLUKE Reliability, and other. Even after more than 25 years, Reynhard Heymans continues to be driven by a passion for pioneering tools and methodologies aimed at enhancing overall equipment effectiveness and reducing operational costs for his clients.

    Riaan Greeff bio image
    Riaan Greeff // Vaal University of Technology

    Mr. Riaan Greeff – Vaal University of Technology, Consultant to Specialised Equipment and Technology Solutions (Pty) Ltd. (SETS)

    Born in Umtata, Transkei, in 1973, Riaan Greeff has been passionate about electrical and electronic technology since childhood. He excelled in Technical Electronics in high school and earned his B.Tech in Engineering with honors from Vaal Triangle Technikon in 1995.

    Mr. Greeff has worked at the Vaal University of Technology since 1996, supporting research and innovation in electronic engineering. Over his 27-year career, he has held roles as a technician, lecturer, consultant, and examiner, and served as Coordinator for the French South African Schneider Electric Education Centre (F’SASEC).

    Currently, Mr. Greeff is a Master of Engineering candidate at the University of Johannesburg, focusing on the statistical analysis of circuit breakers.

  • IRT Application Series: Tank Level Inspection

    Using thermal imaging to see the liquids, solids and foam levels inside a tank.

    The Challenge

    Accurate tank level gauging in the oil and gas industry is a necessity. Maintenance teams need to be able to:

    • Check on product/by-product levels
    • Determine presence of interfaces between liquids, liquids/solids and emulsions.
    • Calculate tank flow rates
    • Calculate existing volume and remaining tank capacity
    • Estimate current product value, or calculate offloading requirements for transport

    Traditional methods (dip-sticking and strapping) are dangerous and inaccurate.

    The Solution

    Thermal imaging can be done from a safe distance, and eliminates any need for direct contact. Very small internal temperature differences between liquids, solids, foams and vapours can be visually detected on the tank exterior. Such inspections can be carried out by utilising either the FLIR ONE Pro, which attaches to a smartphone and couples with an app to calculate tank volumes. Alternatively, a FLIR E-Series can be used where inspection can only be carried out at a safe distance, or higher thermal resolution is required.

    The Result

    Unlike traditional inspection methods, thermal imaging allows level and volumes of products/bi-products to be safely and accurately determined. Users will be able to see uneven levels such as sludge accumulation, thereby preventing sludge being sucked into pumps, and also calculate lost tank capacity from sludge build up. This further allows planning for sludge removal during shutdown – reducing downtime, costs, and improving reliability. 

    The Importance of Tank Level Gauging in the Oil and Gas Industry

    Tank level gauging is a necessity for various applications in the oil and gas industry. Accurate monitoring of tank levels can help maintenance teams avoid tank overflows, calculate tank flow rates, and optimize storage capacity.

    Benefits of Thermal Imaging for Tank Level Gauging

    Thermal imaging is an advanced technology that allows oil and gas companies to gauge tank levels without direct contact. This non-intrusive method provides several advantages:

    • Safety and Efficiency: By eliminating the need for physical contact, thermal imaging reduces the risk of accidents and improves the efficiency of the gauging process.
    • Precision in Measurement: Thermal imaging can detect small changes in temperature, which is crucial for distinguishing between liquids or solids of varying densities. This precise measurement is essential for managing materials with specific heat characteristics.
    • Early Detection of Anomalies: Thermal imaging can identify temperature anomalies that may indicate potential issues, allowing for early intervention and maintenance before problems escalate.

    In conclusion, integrating thermal imaging into tank level gauging processes offers significant benefits for oil and gas operations. It enhances safety, accuracy, and overall efficiency, making it an invaluable tool for the industry.

  • Ensuring Compliance with the EU Methane Regulation – EU 2019/942

    The 2024 amendments to Regulation (EU) 2019/942, now part of Regulation (EU) 2024/1106, bring significant changes to Leak Detection and Repair (LDAR) programs in the EU’s energy sector. 

    The Oil & Gas Methane Partnership 2.0 (OGMP 2.0) is the flagship oil and gas reporting and mitigation programme of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). It is the only comprehensive, measurement-based international reporting framework for the sector. 

    Test conducted on the Flir Gx320 and Gx620 Intrinsically Safe dual use optical gas imaging cameras, exhibit the ability to image gasses, with emission rates of 17g/h and 18g/h from a distance of 2m, with air/background temperatures and calm wind conditions taken into consideration. Methane and Propane gasses which are commonly found at petrochemical facilities were tested. Both cameras met the EPA Appendix K, section 6 standards both in Normal and patented HSM modes for finding small leaks faster. 

    Both cameras have MWIR detectors spectrally filtered to see methane and volatile organic compounds (3.2 to 3.4 μm). They also complies with U.S: EPA OOOOa and Appendix K Regulations. The cameras also have quantification analytics onboard to do immediate leak detection rates onsite. 

    EU’s 2024 Methane Emission Regulations: A Major Step Towards Cleaner Energy

    In a significant move to combat climate change and stabilize energy markets, the European Union has updated Regulation (EU) 2019/942 to address methane emissions from the energy sector. Let’s break down the key aspects of these new regulations, which came into force in April 2024.

    The Path to Regulation

    The journey began in September 2023, with the European Parliament’s committee adopting a negotiating position. By November 2023, an informal agreement was reached, leading to formal endorsements by the European Parliament and the Council in early 2024. The regulation was signed into law on April 11, 2024, and published in the Official Journal on April 17, 2024. This rigorous process highlights the EU’s commitment to effective climate action.

    Tackling Methane Emissions

    Central to the new regulation is a heightened focus on reducing methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas. The EU emphasizes robust Leak Detection and Repair (LDAR) programs to find and fix leaks quickly, aligning with its broader climate goals and the Methane Strategy.

    Strengthened Monitoring and Reporting

    Energy companies now face stricter monitoring and reporting requirements. They must promptly detect and repair methane leaks, ensuring transparency and accountability in their operations. These measures are aimed at minimizing the environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices within the sector.

    Integration with Market Rules

    The regulation also aligns energy market rules with financial market legislation, strengthening the enforcement of market manipulation laws. This integration ensures that companies uphold high standards of operational and environmental integrity, indirectly supporting effective LDAR programs.

    Protecting Consumers and Markets

    Enhanced LDAR programs are crucial for preventing large-scale methane leaks, which can disrupt energy markets and cause significant economic and environmental damage. By mitigating these risks, the EU aims to protect consumers and ensure a stable energy market.

    A Greener Future

    The 2024 amendments to Regulation (EU) 2019/942 reinforce the EU’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fostering a transparent, sustainable energy sector. These changes are a vital part of the EU’s broader strategy to tackle climate change and ensure market stability.

    With these updates, the EU sets a strong example for integrating environmental responsibility with economic stability, paving the way for a sustainable energy future.