Thermal Imaging Lenses for Uncooled Cameras

Thermal Imaging Lenses are ideal for focusing long-wave infrared (LWIR) sources onto detectors or image sensors. Uncooled LWIR cameras face challenges with lens performance in harsh environments. These issues can lead to poor imaging quality and missed opportunities. Choosing the right LWIR thermal imaging lens ensures optimal performance and reliability for applications in defense, surveillance, and industrial monitoring etc..

LWIR lenses for uncooled cameras operate in the 8-14 μm infrared spectrum, designed to provide high-resolution imaging even in low visibility conditions. These lenses are indispensable for thermal imaging, offering durability, precision, and compatibility with various camera systems.


Understanding LWIR lens technology is essential for informed decisions. Discover the benefits and applications of these lenses below.

What is LWIR?

LWIR, or Long-Wave Infrared, refers to infrared wavelengths between 8 and 14 microns. These wavelengths are highly effective for detecting heat signatures without relying on visible light. This capability is crucial for applications like night surveillance, temperature monitoring, and environmental assessments. LWIR imaging is commonly used in security, defense, and industrial processes to identify heat differences in objects. For effective LWIR imaging, specialized lenses like germanium or chalcogenide are used, ensuring high transmission rates and accurate image rendering.

What is an IR Infrared Lens?

An infrared (IR) lens is an essential optical component that focuses infrared light, enabling thermal imaging devices to detect heat emissions. Unlike standard lenses, IR lenses are crafted from materials like germanium, zinc selenide, and sapphire, which are transparent to infrared wavelengths. Their precision design reduces optical aberrations and enhances image quality. These lenses are used in various applications, including medical diagnostics, industrial monitoring, and military surveillance, ensuring superior performance in both short-wave and long-wave infrared spectrums.

A Best-Selling Long-Wave Infrared Thermal Imaging Lens That Meets Market Demand.

Photos of Long Wave Infrared Lenses with focal length of 9.10mm

focal length 9.10mm long wave infrared lens thermal imaging lenses
thermal imaging lenses

Property of 9.10mm LWIR lens

 Optical Parameter 
Focal Length9.1mm(±3%)
F No.1.02
Adaptive Detector 640×512@12μm
View of Angle 62.6°×48.3°×38.7°(±3%)Diagonal FOV: 62.2 ± 0.8 °
Horizontal FOV: 48.3 ± 0.8 °
Vertical FOV: 38.7 ± 0.7 °
Distortion≤10%
Working Waveband8-12μm
Focusing Range0.5m~infinity
BFL6.8mm
Relative lluminance≥80%
CoatingHD/AR
Focusing MethodOptical athermalization
 Mechanical Parameter 
Positioning surface Ø17.2 -0.02/-0.05 mm
TTL18.8 mm
Mounting Interface M19*0.5-6g
Weight≤8g
 Environmental 
Operating Temperature -40℃~+80℃
Storage Temperature -45℃~+85℃
Protection LevelIP67

People Also Ask.


Is Thermal Imaging Better Than Night Vision?

The choice between thermal imaging and night vision depends on the application. Thermal imaging captures heat signatures, making it highly effective in complete darkness or obscured environments like fog or smoke. It excels in detecting objects with temperature differences, offering an advantage in scenarios such as wildlife observation or security monitoring. Night vision, on the other hand, amplifies ambient light and is better suited for identifying facial features or detailed structures under low-light conditions. For detecting threats in adverse environments, thermal imaging is the superior choice.

What is an Infrared Camera Lens, and How Does It Work?

Infrared camera lenses are specialized optics designed to focus thermal radiation onto a camera’s sensor. Made from IR-transparent materials such as germanium or chalcogenide, these lenses allow infrared radiation to pass through while minimizing optical distortion. They operate by channeling heat emissions from objects to a detector that converts these signals into detailed thermal images. Features like LWIR zoom lens assemblies provide flexibility, enabling users to adjust focus for specific targets. These lenses are essential in applications like medical imaging, industrial diagnostics, and environmental monitoring.

Where Can I Get a Cheap Night Vision/Thermal Camera?

Affordable thermal imaging and night vision cameras can be sourced from reputable manufacturers and distributors. Companies like VY Optics, a trusted LWIR lens wholesaler, provide cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality. Trade fairs and online marketplaces also offer a range of products tailored for security, industrial, or recreational use. When choosing a camera, ensure it features compatible LWIR lenses and meets your specific application requirements to maximize performance and reliability.

Choose LWIR lenses tailored for uncooled cameras to maximize imaging capabilities and reliability in diverse applications.

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