borescopes

Borescopes are optical inspection devices used to view areas that are difficult or impossible to access directly. By inserting a slender insertion tube through a small opening, technicians can inspect the interiors of engines, turbines, pipelines, and similar equipment without extensive disassembly. They come in rigid or flexible forms and can carry either a direct eyepiece or a video camera and display.

Rigid borescopes provide a straight optical path through a stiff tube, offering high image clarity along the tube. Flexible borescopes use a bendable insertion tube with a fiber-optic relay or miniature camera at the tip, allowing articulation to navigate curves. Modern borescopes are often video-enabled, transmitting images to a monitor or recording device.

Typical components include the insertion tube, illumination (usually LEDs), objective optics, image relay or camera, and a viewing unit. In flexible models, a control mechanism—such as a knob or joystick—steers the tip. Some devices include measurement software or interchangeable tips.

Common uses include automotive and aircraft maintenance, power generation, and industrial inspection of pipes, tanks, and structural components. Borescopes support nondestructive testing by revealing wear, corrosion, blockages, or mechanical damage without dismantling equipment.

Maintenance requires cleaning and appropriate disinfection after use to prevent cross-contamination. Inspect optics for scratches and check illumination and cables. Store in protective cases and follow manufacturer guidance for charging and calibration of electronic models.