About FLIR Instruments

For over 40 years, FLIR Instruments has developed pioneering high-performance, very accurate infrared imaging systems. Instrument Choice proudly stocks and recommends FLIR’s extensive range of infrared and moisture detection meters.

This article examines the professional-level MR series, outlining key features and comparing the specifications of different models to help you select the most appropriate tool for your needs.

Introducing the MR Series

FLIR’s MR series covers moisture meters that include straightforward dual pin/pinless instruments to sophisticated feature-packed systems incorporating FLIR IGM technology.

Examples of MR Series Moisture Meters

To help you find the right FLIR Instruments MR series moisture meter for your needs, Instrument Choice Scientists introduce each of the five meters below along with their features and examples of applications.

#1: FLIR MR277 Imaging Camera with Moisture Meter

Product code: IC-FLIR-MR277

The FLIR MR277 is a professional all-in-one tool designed for detecting general and building envelope moisture problems. The meters integrate FLIR IGM, patented FLIR Multi-Spectral Dynamic Imaging (MSX) and advanced environmental sensors for moisture incident detection, location, identification, and documentation.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Quickly scan for moisture with the integrated non-invasive pinless sensor or capture exact measurements with an external pin probe (included).
• The MR277 calculates important environmental parameters based on multi-sensor input, including; grains per pound or grams per kilogram, vapour pressure, and dew point.
• Quickly locate suspected problems with IGM technology and observe areas of concern using the MR277’s high-performance 160 120 thermal imaging sensor.
• Take advantage of the MSX mode - which embosses visual details on full thermal images – to quickly comprehend the surrounding environment and the nature of any moisture issue.
• An in-built hygrometer and field-replaceable temperature/relative humidity sensor help expedite troubleshooting.
• METERLiNK Bluetooth connectivity allows you to connect to mobile devices and upload data to the FLIR Tools app for reporting.
• Target the exact source of problems with the integrated laser pointer.
• Create individual files containing comprehensive thermal and visual images, hygrometer readings and laser locations when documenting incidents.
• Use WiFi or an included USB cable to download images and data from the MR277 for analysis and the generation of reports using free FLIR Tools software.

Ideal Applications:

• Pest management
• HVAC/R
• Commercial/healthcare building management
• Moisture remediation
• Residential roofing; and
• Building inspections.

#2: MR265 Moisture Meter and Thermal Imager with MSX
Product code: MR265

The FLIR Instruments MR265 is a professional pin and pinless moisture meter with thermal imaging designed for locating and investigating issues related to moisture, air leaks, and insulation voids. Like the MR277, the MR265 features FLIR IGM (Infrared Guided Measurement) and MSX (Multi-Spectral Dynamic Imaging enhancement) technology.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Rapid and straightforward troubleshooting is easy with the built-in 2MP visual camera, thermal camera, laser pointer and MSX image-enhancing technology.
• Assess moisture with pinless or pin measurements, and choose from a variety of optional, compatible probe accessories to tackle any moisture measurement challenge.
• Document thermal and visual images before and after repairs, and create professional reports using FLIR Thermal Studio to communicate problems and repairs.

Ideal Applications:

• HVAC/R
• Commercial/healthcare building management
• Moisture remediation
• Residential roofing;
• Building inspections.

#3: MR176 Imaging Moisture Meter
Product code: IC-MR176

The FLIR Instruments MR176 is an ultra-premium 3-in-1 moisture meter that features an 80 x 60 FLIR Lepton thermal camera sensor for infrared-guided measurements (IGM). The IGM system lets you visualise the precise spot requiring further testing and investigation for moisture incursions. The rugged MR176 includes a pin/pinless moisture meter and thermo-hygrometer – providing professionals with many options for capturing environmental data for a wide range of applications.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Easily customise your display settings - moisture, temperature, relative humidity, vapour pressure, dew point and mixing ratio.
• The MR176 includes an intelligent stabilisation indicator that ensures accurate relative humidity readings.
• A clever “lock-image” setting prevents temperature extremes from interfering with images during meter operation.
• All images and measurement values are saved to onboard memory for quick referencing or downloading to a computer via USB.

Ideal Applications:

• Pest management
• HVAC/R
• Commercial/healthcare building management
• Moisture remediation
• Home inspections; and
• Residential roofing.

#4: FLIR MR160 Imaging Moisture Meter
Product code: IC-MR160

The FLIR Instruments MR160 is a dual pin and pinless moisture meter equipped with an 80 x 60 FLIR Lepton thermal camera sensor for Infrared Guided Measurements (IGM). IGM technology allows you to visualise cold temperature patterns associated with moisture evaporation and guides you to specific locations requiring further attention.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Measurement versatility – Use the MR160’s pinless moisture sensing technology for rapid, non-invasive moisture measurements and the external pin probe for more precise contact moisture measurements.
• A powerful laser pointer with display crosshairs lets you precisely target an area, while FLIR IGM technology shows areas of potential moisture on a colour display.
• Document thermal images and moisture readings on the same screen, review images and generate reports with free FLIR Tools software.

Ideal for:

• Building and renovation
• Flooring installation
• Moisture remediation
• HVAC/R
• Commercial and residential roofing
• Home inspection; and
• Pest management.

#5: Flir MR60 Moisture Meter Pro
Product code: IC-MR60

FLIR Instruments’ MR60 is an easy to use pin/pinless moisture tester with the functionality needed to perform a wide range of professional measuring tasks. Conveniently save screenshots of your measurements as a CSV file with the date time and user settings.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Flexibility – offers destructive or non-destructive measurement options.
• Get clear, accurate readings: Choose from 11 material group selections for pin-based readings, then save up to 10,000 screenshots that you can transfer and view via PC/USB. Set a programmable alarm with audible and colour visual alerts to notify you of high moisture.
• Simple to use and create reports: MR60 features a bright, easy-to-read colour display and an intuitive graphical user interface with helpful function labels in local languages. Save your files and generate reports with free FLIR Tools PC software.

Ideal Applications:

• Moisture remediation; and
• HVAC.

MR Series Specification Comparison

If you’re unsure which FLIR MR series is best for your application, then the easy-to-read table our scientists have created (see below) highlights the differences between each meter.

Conclusion

FLIR is an expert manufacturer of high-quality moisture meters. Their MR series of moisture meters offer a comprehensive assortment of options and features designed to suit a vast array of moisture assessment and monitoring applications.

If you need more information regarding any of the meters we have reviewed above or need help to select the best FLIR moisture meter for your needs, speak with an Instrument Choice Scientist: Call 1300 737 871 or email [email protected].