SKF Maintenance Products has added the low cost endoscope TMES 1 to its range of instruments for basic condition monitoring. Endoscopy is a cost-effective way of checking if maintenance is required in restricted spaces that cannot normally be seen with the naked eye. Ideally used as a first line inspection tool, it saves time and money by removing the need to disassemble items for inspection.

Endoscopes are often costly and require additional equipment to obtain good results, as they are traditionally bulky and difficult to use.

However, the TMES 1 is a small handheld optical tool that has a tip diameter of just 8 mm (0.32 in), so allows access to parts such as bearings, engines and transmissions in most industrial applications.

The endoscope has a focal length of 10mm (straight focal direction) and a 60 degree angle of view.

'The TMES 1 will help to reduce the use of costly high-end tools for necessary applications,' explained Phil Burge of SKF UK.

'In many cases the initial check will provide sufficient information regarding the condition of the equipment under scrutiny, so this piece of low-cost monitoring equipment has the potential to bring large savings in terms of both time and money'.

The lightweight TMES 1 is easy to assemble and use, so no special training is required.

It comes with a battery case that also acts as a handle - on which the length can be reduced for use in restricted spaces.

There is also an optical eyepiece, a flexible water-resistant 1m (3.3 ft) cord and an objective lens included.

The endoscope also features a built-in adjustable light source to illuminate the application.

The light source is powered by three plain 1.5 V (LR14-C) batteries.

Should the user need to record results for further analysis or send images on for diagnostics, a digital camera adapter is available as an accessory.