Yellotec, in partnership with FLIR, is proud to announce the Yellotec & FLIR Tech Tour 2026, taking place during the last week of May and early June. This nationwide tour is designed to bring cutting-edge thermal imaging and reliability solutions directly to key industrial regions across South Africa.
Through a combination of exclusive client site visits and invitation-only roadshow events, the tour will showcase how FLIR’s industry-leading technologies, supported by Yellotec’s technical expertise—help organizations improve asset reliability, enhance safety, and reduce unplanned downtime.
What to Expect
The Yellotec & FLIR Tech Tour focuses on real-world applications and hands-on engagement, giving attendees practical insights they can immediately apply within their operations. Highlights include:
Live site visits demonstrating thermal imaging in operational environments.
Roadshow events with expert-led discussions and technology showcases.
Practical applications of predictive maintenance, condition monitoring, fault detection, and early fire detection.
Direct engagement with Yellotec and FLIR technical specialists.
Tour Locations & Dates
The tour will visit key industrial hubs, with the following schedule:
Gauteng Roadshow Event Gauteng 28 May 2026
Limpopo Roadshow Event Limpopo 01 June 2026
Mpumalanga Roadshow Event Mpumalanga 05 June 2026
Additionally, exclusive site visits will take place in Cape Town, offering selected clients a closer look at FLIR solutions in live operating environments.
Why Attend?
This tour is ideal for maintenance managers, reliability engineers, electrical and mechanical specialists, and plant managers who want to:
Detect faults early using advanced thermal imaging
Improve maintenance planning and asset uptime
Enhance operational safety and compliance
Learn from proven, real-world industrial applications
Join the Tour
The Yellotec & FLIR Tech Tour 2026 is a unique opportunity to see industry-leading thermal and reliability technologies in action, where it matters most. Attendance for site visits and roadshow events is by invitation.
To secure your place or learn more, contact the Yellotec team or watch out for your official invitation. We look forward to connecting with you on the road and exploring the future of reliability together.
At Yellotec, we believe that consistent results, deep technical expertise, and unwavering commitment to our customers should speak for themselves. Over the years, that commitment has been recognised by some of the most respected global technology partners in our industry.
Each award we receive tells a story of trust, performance, and long-term partnerships built on delivering real value. Here’s a look at some of the milestones that mark Yellotec’s journey of excellence.
This award recognises Yellotec’s outstanding technical capability and leadership in Fluke Reliability Solutions (FRS). Being named Best-in-Class reflects the depth of our engineering knowledge, our ability to solve complex reliability challenges, and our focus on helping customers prevent failures before they happen.
It’s a testament to the skill of our technical teams and their commitment to delivering world-class reliability solutions across industries.
Fluke has recognized Yellotec as a Trusted Partner since 2009, reflecting a long-standing partnership built on reliability and performance excellence across Southern Africa.
Top Training Partner Award – Africa (2024)
Yellotec | Regional Recognition
Training is at the heart of sustainable reliability and maintenance excellence. Receiving the Top Training Partner Award for Africa highlights Yellotec’s role in empowering professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to operate, maintain, and optimise critical assets.
From condition monitoring to advanced diagnostics, this recognition reflects our passion for developing people, not just deploying technology.
FLIR R&D Science Platinum Partner of the Year (2024)
EMEA | Yellow Technical Services
Being awarded Platinum Partner of the Year by FLIR is a significant achievement that underscores our technical leadership, innovation, and close collaboration with one of the world’s leading sensing technology companies.
This recognition celebrates our contribution to advanced research, application excellence, and the successful delivery of FLIR solutions across the EMEA region.
Thank you to our partners, customers, and teams who make these achievements possible.
Join us for a dynamic, technical forum tailored for researchers, engineers, and scientists working in defence R&D. This in-depth session brings together cutting-edge thermal imaging technology and real-world defence applications — all led by the experts from FLIR and Yellotec.
What to Expect:
Technology Reveal Be among the first to see FLIR’s newly released technology that seamlessly integrates thermal and visible feeds — unlocking new possibilities for multi-spectrum analysis in defence environments. Expert-Led Insights Gain firsthand knowledge from FLIR engineers and Yellotec specialists on the latest advancements in thermal imaging and how they’re transforming modern defence strategies. Real-World Defence Applications Explore how thermal imaging supports target tracking, muzzle flash detection, flare analysis, and advanced munition research — all critical to modern battlefield awareness and response. Radiometric Systems in Action Watch FLIR’s radiometric systems analyze IR signatures of vehicles, aircraft, and equipment — supporting stealth optimization, thermal suppression, and countermeasure development. Live Demonstrations & Technical Q&A Experience simulated demonstrations and engage directly with technical experts. Bring your toughest questions — this is your opportunity to get tailored advice on real-world challenges.
Win the Newly Released 60th Anniversary Radiometry Handbook Be one of 50 lucky attendees randomly selected to receive a hard copy of FLIR’s 60th Anniversary Radiometry Handbook — a stunning 500-page, high-gloss printed reference packed with advanced insights and technical depth, crafted specifically for defence and engineering professionals.
Thermal Cameras, Thermal Security Cameras and Thermography Cameras – What Are The Differences and Which One Do I Need?
By Tjaart Broodryk
Broadly speaking there are really two main types of Infrared Cameras, and then a third although the third is not that important in the mainstream marketplace. The three main types then are:
THERMAL IMAGING or THERMAL SECURITY Cameras – Cameras that are designed to output an infrared image only – these cameras cannotmeasure temperature.
THERMOGRAPHY CAMERAS – Cameras that output a Radiometric infrared image and can measure temperature or quantify electromagnetic radiation in several different units.
SCIENTIFIC INFRARED CAMERAS that allow users an open framework camera, necessary for Advanced Radiometry and allows total access to the setup, calibration and outputs of the camera.
Main uses of these cameras (there are off course more) in the mainstream are:
THERMAL IMAGING or THERMAL SECURITY Cameras that cannot measure are used for security / military purposes, or similar applications such as hunting – where detection is key and temperature measurement just does not matter.
THERMOGRAPHY CAMERAS that can measure are used for maintenance or condition monitoring purposes or similar where detection of heat radiation differences and the temperature are important.
SCIENTIFIC INFRARED CAMERAS – for users mainly in Research and Development applications where radiometry, accuracy, frame rates or camera speed and synchronization requirements are key.
Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) detects gas leaks, a fairly recent development in thermography camera development, possibly a new category camera on its own and is not discussed further here. If you need any information on Optical Gas Imaging Cameras, please contact our team directly.
The internet, however, has become slightly confused, and mainly because the terminology to distinguish between these main types of infrared cameras have not been standardised – not between OEM’s and not even internal to OEMs.
Entry level ThermographyPoint and Shoot Thermography CameraFLIR T-Series Professional Handheld Thermography Camera
Not that this matters much to users looking for security or personal use Infrared cameras – where the bulk of the market sits today. It does however matter a lot if you are looking for a camera that can measure temperature (accurately) and produce a report from captured data. Searching the web when you need something other than a straightforward Thermal Imaging camera can be frustrating as terminologies are used incorrectly by suppliers that do not really know or care
There are few people / companies out there that know enough about Infrared Cameras to be able to explain the differences, and even fewer that can accurately match your needs to a specific model. Infrared Camera prices will range from cheap to very high, buying wrong happens daily. There are literally thousands of Infrared Camera models available, and even more OEMs and distributors arrive daily.
The differences and the specifications between the main types – and then between the models of each type are not always clear. Save to say that there is a nice and confusing bunch of specifications that accompany all three types of cameras. I will not go into the specifications here – that is saved in a future blog – and I am not an expert on the security type cameras, but when it comes to Thermography cameras, we know a lot. Which specifications matter? And why? Look for a future blog here or call us today if you need to know right now!
Latest Generation FLIR Handheld Security camera “Professional Thermal Monocular”Typical FLIR Personal Security ImageryFLIR Long Range Perimeter Protection
This article aims to quickly give an overview of the three main types of cameras, the trick is that if you are going to use the camera for professional services – not so much personal – then buy from the supplier that has best knowledge, offers training and can support these cameras with spares and calibration services for at least the warranty term – which with FLIR Cameras is up to 10 years!
The difference between the three types of Infrared cameras lies mainly in their intended end-use, features, and application environments, even though all three sense and convert infrared radiation (heat) rather into a visible light image.
I am not going to elaborate on types of detectors, spectral ranges, temperature ranges, speed or optical specifications. This article is intended to highlight the basic differences only for users who need a quick guide around the type of Infrared Cameras available. Below are a few tables intended to summarise this text and to give a little more information in bite size chunks. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you need to explore our fascinating world of Infrared Cameras a little deeper.
1. Purpose & Application
THERMAL IMAGING CAMERAS
Feature
Thermography Cameras
Thermal Security Cameras
Scientific Infrared Cameras
Primary Use
Industrial inspections, fault finding, maintenance, diagnostics, process automation and firefighting.
Perimeter protection, surveillance, threat detection. Vehicle night vision.
Research and Development, Scientific Work
Typical Applications
Electrical & Mechanical fault detection, Heat Loss, Moisture Ingress, Early Fire Detection, Process Control.
Intrusion detection, night surveillance, border control, Military Night vision.
Mostly Uncooled Microbolometers, for Long Range and Border control – High performance cooled
Mostly High-Performance Cooled Cameras. MCT, InSb, SLS.Uncooled Microbolometers for consumable or lower accuracy & slower tests.
Thermal Sensitivity
From Bad or Poor to Good or Excellent. From bad @ 100mk to excellent @ 35mK – massive differences between models.
Uncooled good side from @50mK to excellent @20mk on the cooled versions
Highest Sensitivity @20mK and better. (Lower).
Measurement Tools
Temperature readings, basic and or advanced analysis tools, spot meters, area tools, isotherms etc.
Limited to colour pallets and contract alarms.
Complete radiometric measurement and analysis suite for advanced users. User calibrations permitted.
Image Analysis
Radiometric (temperature data per pixel)
Non-radiometric (shows heat differences or thermal contrast only)
Advanced Radiometric and time synchronisation
Recording/Alerting
Manual recording, single images or radio metric or standard video radiometric, inspection logs and notations
Motion alerts, real-time alarms, video analytics (mostly through software, limited onboard functionality)
From a single FPS (frame per second) to thousands of FPS, with advanced triggering and various data streaming options.
3. Technical Capabilities
THERMAL IMAGING CAMERAS
Feature
Thermography Cameras
Thermal Security Cameras
Scientific Infrared Cameras
Resolution
Often higher (e.g., 320×240, 640×480, 1024×768 and shortly even higher!
Lower (e.g., 160×120, 320×240 & 640 x 480) – optimised for detection.
320 x 240, 640 x 480, 1024 x 768 and higher resolutions.
Frame rates
Typically, 9Hz to 30Hz, up to 60Hz and even 100Hz for special models.
Usually, 30Hz only or lower.
Programmable from 0.5Hz to 1000’s Hz with windowing, largely application dependent.
Integration
Fixed type – Not typically integrated with CCTV. Advanced VMS systems with plug-in Modules can be used, or specialised software
Integrated with video management systems (VMS)
User dependant – Full SDK available for integration into various Research Software’s
Connectivity
Handheld units provide USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi for data export. Fixed versions – Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, versions may support protocols allowing integration into vision and control systems –model dependant! Smart Cameras allow various interfaces and outputs. SDK Supported.
Networked (IP, ONVIF compatible) for continuous feeds
Gigabit Ethernet (GigE Vision), CXP Dual Link
4. Summary
THERMAL IMAGING CAMERAS
Aspect
Thermography Cameras
Thermal Security
Scientific Infrared Cameras
You Need It If…
You’re diagnosing overheating equipment, building energy loss, or faults
You need to monitor an area for intrusion or unusual activity at night or in low visibility
Your developing new products and need to know more about the heat flow properties or thermal signatures of materials and components
Main Value
Precision temperature measurement & heat flow analysis, temperature trending.
Reliable detection of humans/vehicles/animals in total darkness
Accurate and reliable thermodynamic data for further analysis in FEM or Design platforms
Examples
FLIR E-series (E8 Pro, E96), FLIR T-Series (T865, T560), FLIR A series (A70, A700, A65)
Tjaart Broodryk has been a driving force at Yellotec for more than 17 years, serving as a director and helping shape the company into a leader in the field of Condition Monitoring and Predictive Maintenance.
Tjaart plays a key role in fostering a culture of excellence at Yellotec, with customer focus and technical expertise at the center of his work. Specialising in infrared thermography, he is widely respected in the industry for his dedication to advancing the field and supporting the evolving needs of Yellotec’s clients.
In 2024, Yellotec, in partnership with Teledyne FLIR’s advanced thermal imaging equipment, embarked on a specialised Tech Tour to provide a firsthand look at its exceptional capabilities in real-world defence applications.
From high-speed target tracking to precision measurements in extreme conditions, these cutting-edge R&D instruments demonstrated their unparalleled accuracy, resolution, and speed. Throughout the testing process, the powerful combination of FLIR cameras, software, and SDKs showcased their ability to capture critical thermal data with ease, reinforcing their essential role in defence research and development. This experience not only highlighted the sophistication of FLIR technology but also underscored its impact in pushing the boundaries of innovation and operational effectiveness.
With participation from Denel, ARMSCOR, SAAB, Incomar and CSIR (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research), the technology tour took place at several specialized defence testing sites and shooting ranges. Each location provided a unique environment to showcase the advanced capabilities of FLIR’s R&D instruments in real-world defence applications.
During the tour, the Yellotec’s dedication and expertise in utilizing FLIR’s advanced thermal imaging technology were recognized with a prestigious R&D Science Platinum Partner Award of the Year from Teledyne FLIR.
Overview of the Tech Tour
Started with the Yellotec team departing from Head office to Cape Town. Meeting up with the FLIR team and making our way back to Head Office with stops at:
Denel Rheinmetal Munitions Somerset
Institute of Maritime Technology
Denel Overberg Test Range – Flooded and we missed the opportunity to meet the team of Denel
Alkantpan
Dinokeng private game reserve
Denel Rheinmetall Munitions, Boskop Test Range Potchefstroom: Research and Development in percussion cap blasts and plume characterization.
The FLIR RS cameras at the ARMSCOR Institute Maritime Technology offer unparalleled capabilities in maritime surveillance systems. These advanced thermal imaging solutions excel in long-range monitoring, enabling precise detection and tracking of targets in challenging maritime environments. With their superior thermal sensitivity and high-resolution imagery, FLIR RS cameras provide exceptional performance for thermal monitoring and detection, ensuring enhanced situational awareness and security across vast maritime domains.
At the Denel Overberg Test Range, a division of the South African industrial group Denel, the FLIR RS and X-HS cameras play a crucial role in the in-flight testing of advanced guided and aviation systems. These high-performance thermal imaging cameras are designed to capture precise, high-resolution data during critical aerospace operations, offering exceptional clarity and accuracy in dynamic, high-speed environments. With their superior thermal sensitivity and fast-frame rate capabilities, the FLIR RS and X-HS cameras provide invaluable real-time monitoring and analysis, ensuring the safety, reliability, and effectiveness of advanced aerospace systems.
Enhancing Aerospace Testing with FLIR RS & X-HS Cameras
The FLIR RS and X-HS cameras play a pivotal role in capturing high-resolution thermal data during in-flight testing of advanced aerospace systems. With their exceptional thermal sensitivity and high-speed imaging, they provide precise monitoring and real-time analysis, ensuring optimal performance of guided and aviation systems in challenging environments.
FLIR Cameras Integrated with CT System for Airborne Target Tracking
In this setup, FLIR RS and X-HS thermal imaging cameras are strategically positioned alongside a CT system to provide enhanced tracking of airborne targets. The FLIR cameras capture high-resolution thermal data, enabling real-time monitoring and precise detection of targets at long ranges. The integration with the CT system ensures seamless data fusion, delivering comprehensive situational awareness for aerospace operations and advanced testing scenarios
Collaborative Setup: Yellotec, FLIR, and Denel Teams Preparing for Testing
The Yellotec, FLIR, and Denel teams work together in this image to set up the FLIR RS and X-HS thermal imaging cameras for a crucial test. The teams are engaged in careful alignment and calibration, ensuring the cameras are perfectly positioned to capture precise thermal data. This collaborative effort highlights the seamless integration of expertise from all parties involved to ensure successful deployment and accurate tracking of aerospace systems during testing.
Into the Night: FLIR Cameras and Team in Action
As the evening sets in, the Yellotec, FLIR, and Denel teams continue their meticulous setup of the FLIR RS and X-HS cameras. Working into the night, the teams ensure that the cameras are perfectly calibrated and ready to capture high-quality thermal data. This dedication reflects the precision and commitment required for the successful testing of advanced aerospace and defence systems in challenging conditions.
Final Integration: FLIR RS Camera Embedded into CT System for DENEL
The FLIR RS camera is seamlessly integrated into the CT system, marking the final stage of the setup for DENEL’s advanced testing operations. This integration allows for real-time thermal imaging data capture, enhancing the CT system’s capability to monitor and track targets with unparalleled accuracy. The combined power of FLIR’s high-resolution thermal imaging and the CT system’s precision ensures optimal performance for complex aerospace and defence applications.
FLIR X-HS Camera in Action at a South African Test Range
This video showcases the FLIR X-HS camera, captured by Yellotec and FLIR during testing at a South African Test Range. The footage demonstrates the camera’s exceptional ability to optimize energy usage and perform detailed plume characterization in real-time. With its high-speed imaging and superior thermal sensitivity, the FLIR X-HS provides invaluable insights into energy dynamics and exhaust plume behavior, advancing research and development for aerospace and defence applications.
Leak Detection and Energy Transfer Analysis with High-Speed Thermal Imaging
These images demonstrate the use of high-speed thermal imaging with FLIR cameras to identify potential leaks and assess energy transfer during gun testing. By capturing thermal signatures at critical moments, the FLIR cameras help determine if excessive energy is being lost through the muzzle, providing crucial data for optimizing performance. Understanding energy transfer and pinpointing leaks is vital for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of weapon systems in both testing and operational environments.
FLIR X-HS Camera in Action at ARMSCOR Capturing the Firing Dynamics of a Cannon
This thermal video captures the high-energy firing process of a cannon, providing a detailed view of the heat patterns generated during discharge. The FLIR camera’s high-speed thermal imaging reveals the rapid energy transfer and thermal signature of the cannon, offering valuable insights into the efficiency and behavior of the weapon during firing. This data is essential for analyzing performance, identifying potential issues, and optimizing the design of large-caliber artillery systems.
These additional images illustrate the use of high-speed thermal imaging to detect energy loss through leaks at the muzzle. By visualizing thermal patterns, the FLIR cameras provide critical data on energy transfer, helping to identify inefficiencies that could impact performance. This analysis is essential for enhancing the precision and reliability of gun systems during testing and development.
Effortless Setup and Successful Testing at Alkantpan Test Range
The first image showcases the streamlined setup process, highlighting the ease and efficiency with which the FLIR systems are prepared for upcoming tests. With intuitive integration, the teams ensure that everything is in place for optimal performance. The second image captures the successful completion of the testing, with the Alkantpan Test Range team, Yellotec, and FLIR teams coming together after a productive day. Their collaboration and dedication to precision have contributed to the advancement of aerospace and defence research through detailed data collection and analysis.
FLIR and Yellotec Teams Showcase New Technologies to CSIR
This image captures the FLIR and Yellotec teams setting up the cameras in preparation for a presentation and discussion with the CSIR (Council of Scientific & Industrial Research). The session focuses on demonstrating the features and potential applications of the latest FLIR technologies, emphasizing their impact on research and development across various industries. The collaborative effort between the teams and CSIR underscores the importance of innovation and knowledge sharing in advancing technological solutions.
Showcasing FLIR Innovations
The Defense Technology Day event was hosted by Yellotec in collaboration with FLIR, and attended by key industry leaders including SAAB, Incomar, and others. The event provided a platform for professionals to explore the latest advancements in defence technology, featuring live demonstrations of FLIR’s state-of-the-art thermal imaging solutions. Attendees engaged in insightful discussions on the practical applications of these technologies, focusing on how they are transforming the future of defence operations.
A Well-Deserved Break: Capturing Wildlife with FLIR’s Latest Science Technologies
After two intense weeks of testing and demonstrations, the FLIR and Yellotec teams took a well-deserved break by exploring the natural world. Using the latest FLIR science technologies, they captured stunning wildlife footage, showcasing the versatility and high-performance capabilities of FLIR’s thermal imaging systems in non-defenceenvironments. This moment not only allowed the teams to relax but also demonstrated the wide-ranging applications of FLIR technology in diverse fields, from defence to wildlife conservation.
Setting Up for Firearm Range Day: FLIR and Yellotec Teams in Action
These images show the FLIR and Yellotec teams preparing the cameras for a firearm range day. With meticulous attention to detail, the teams set up the advanced thermal imaging systems to capture critical data during live-fire exercises. This setup allows for real-time analysis of energy transfer, muzzle behavior, and thermal signatures, ensuring precise monitoring and valuable insights into firearm performance.
Capturing Firearm Dynamics with the FLIR X6980 HS
This high-speed video footage, captured using the FLIR X6980 HS with a 50mm motorized optic, provides a detailed view of the thermal dynamics as the firearm discharges. The camera’s rapid frame rate and exceptional thermal sensitivity allow for an in-depth analysis of the firearm’s performance, capturing crucial data on heat patterns, energy transfer, and muzzle behavior with unparalleled clarity and precision.
Analyzing Revolver Dynamics with the FLIR X6980 HS
This high-speed video footage, captured with the FLIR X6980 HS and a 50mm motorized optic, showcases the thermal dynamics of a revolver in action. The camera’s high frame rate and exceptional thermal sensitivity provide detailed insights into the revolver’s discharge process, highlighting critical thermal signatures, energy transfer, and muzzle behavior with remarkable accuracy.
FLIR RS6780 with 3X A Focal Lens in Action
This video footage, captured with the FLIR RS6780 equipped with a 3X AFocallens, precisely tracks the bullet path during firing. The enhanced resolution and thermal sensitivity of the camera allow for an in-depth analysis of the trajectory, providing valuable data on the bullet’s movement and impact points. The combination of high-speed imaging and advanced optics offers unparalleled insight into the dynamics of projectile motion.
A Tech Tour Like No Other: Challenges, Discoveries, and Team Moments
Between client visits, the Yellotec and FLIR teams set up the FLIR RS camera to capture footage of a small mountain pass, braving cold and rainy weather conditions. This moment highlights the adaptability of FLIR technology, capturing detailed footage even in harsh environments. Despite the challenging weather, the team shared unforgettable moments of discovery, showcasing the versatility of the FLIR RS camera in diverse and dynamic conditions.
FLIR’s Unique Selling Points: Setting the Standard in Thermal Imaging
FLIR’s cutting-edge thermal imaging technology offers a range of unmatched features that set it apart in the industry:
Exceptional Resolution & Clarity: FLIR cameras deliver high-resolution thermal imagery for precise data capture and detailed analysis, even in challenging conditions.
Versatility Across Industries: From defence and aerospace to wildlife monitoring and industrial inspections, FLIR’s technology is adaptable for a variety of applications.
Durability in Harsh Environments: Designed to perform in the toughest conditions, FLIR cameras offer reliable performance in extreme temperatures, adverse weather, and rugged terrain.
Seamless Integration: With easy setup and integration, FLIR systems effortlessly complement existing equipment, enabling enhanced data collection and analysis with minimal effort.
Advanced Optics & Speed: With powerful optics and high-speed imaging, FLIR cameras capture rapid thermal changes, providing real-time insights that are critical in fast-paced environments.
FLIR continues to lead the way in thermal imaging by offering technology that empowers professionals to make faster, more informed decisions, regardless of the application.
A Strong Partnership: FLIR and Yellotec’s Collaboration & Recognition
This image captures a proud moment as FLIR hands the Teledyne FLIR Platinum Partner Award to the Yellotec management team, recognizing Yellotec as FLIR’s top partner in Sub-Saharan Africa. This prestigious award acknowledges their exceptional collaboration and commitment to advancing thermal imaging technology across the region. Through this partnership, FLIR and Yellotec have provided innovative, world-class solutions, driving growth and success in various industries. Their continued teamwork reflects their shared dedication to pushing the boundaries of technology and service in Sub-Saharan Africa and beyond.
