What to do if the image becomes blurred? Signs of a malfunctioning endoscope

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A clear image: the basis of any successful inspection

In industrial inspection, the image is much more than just a visual: it’s crucial. When it becomes blurred, the accuracy of the analysis collapses.
But what does this loss of sharpness really hide? Is it simply dirt? A symptom of a deeper problem? This article will help you to find out (literally).

Close-up of an optical iris for industrial endoscopes, used to adjust light and sharpness during inspections.

1. Screen blur: understanding the causes

Several factors can cause image blur, from the most benign to the most critical:

  • Dirty or dusty lenses: often the first cause, especially in dusty or greasy environments.

  • Internal condensation: due to high ambient humidity or thermal shock, this may indicate micro-cracking or seal failure.

  • Damaged lens: scratches, thermal shock or mechanical impact can permanently alter optical quality.

  • Poor lighting: a worn or dirty LED distorts the perception of sharpness.

  • Focusing problems: if the optical system is badly adjusted or damaged, the image will appear blurred even if the lens is clean.

2. The invisible enemy: dust and spray

In an incinerator furnace, cement plant or any other particle-laden atmosphere, the lens becomes a prime target for deposits.

🔥 Without active cooling, this dust accumulates and ends up dulling, scratching or clogging the lens.
Result: images with halos, spots, and sharpness in free fall.

The sectors most at risk :

  • Incinerators (charged fumes)

  • Cement works (abrasive particles)

  • Glassworks and foundries (high temperature + fine dust)

Endoscope view of a municipal waste incinerator (MWI), showing flashback and extreme conditions.
Matériel Démo - vision axiale (0°)

3. The right reflexes to adopt

You don’t need to be an expert to carry out a few simple checks:

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Nettoyer la lentille avec un chiffon microfibre propre
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Vérifier que les systèmes de refroidissement (air ou eau) fonctionnent correctement
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Contrôler les connexions (câble vidéo, moniteur, caméra)
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Observer l’image : flou homogène ou ponctuel ? variation en fonction de la distance ?

A few good practices are often enough to extend the life of your equipment:

  • Drain water after use, especially for liquid-cooled systems.
  • Always activate cooling before inserting the endoscope into a hot zone.
  • Clean lenses regularly, even between uses.
  • Store equipment in a clean, dry, dust-free area.

4. Critical symptoms = return to workshop

Some situations leave no room for doubt. If you notice :

  • A blurred image after cleaning.
  • Internal marks, such as micro-scratches or permanent haze.
  • Overheating or accidental immersion.
  • Missing video signal: black screen, static, flicker…

👉 The endoscope needs workshop expertise. Better to act quickly to avoid irreversible damage.

Technician repairing the optics of an industrial endoscope in a specialized workshop, using precision tools and components.

Conclusion

A blurred image is never harmless. It can be the symptom of simple clogging… or the harbinger of a weakened endoscope. In an industrial environment, where every inspection counts, it’s essential to react at the first sign of trouble.

Careful cleaning, a basic check or correct activation of the cooling system are sometimes all that’s needed to restore clear vision. But if the problem persists, it’s best not to wait: a workshop intervention can often save the endoscope, avoid costly replacement and leave you with fully operational equipment.

👉 If you notice any image degradation or have any doubts, please contact
. Our teams are here to help you. Whether you need a diagnosis, maintenance or repair, we put our expertise at your service.

📩 Contact us directly here for technical advice or to schedule an inspection.