High temperature cooling tube for borescope

Abstract

A high temperature cooling tube for use with an inspection device is provided. The cooling tube permits operation of the inspection device in environments having a temperature of greater than about 302° F. (150° C.). By providing the capability to inspect equipment in a relatively hot condition, cooling time required before inspection is reduced, overall turnaround time for such inspections is reduced, inspected equipment is placed back into service more quickly, and revenues are increased. In an exemplary embodiment, the cooling tube includes an inner sleeve for protecting the inspection device, a middle sleeve for insulation and air flow, and an outer sleeve for protecting the cooling tube and the inspection device from damage. The middle sleeve can include expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (EPTFE), which protects the inspection device from extreme high temperature working environments, and which permits flexibility. Related apparatuses, systems, techniques and articles are also described.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.