Thermographic inspections have been used for over thirty years as components in both preventive
and predictive maintenance programs.
In the hands of a trained and experienced operator, a thermal imager can provide a wealth
of information that can improve efficiency, productivity, and safety.
With interest in thermography at an all-time high and equipment costs at record low prices,
there has never been a better time to capitalize on the benefits of an infrared inspection
program.
In this presentation, we will explore some of the more common applications of commercial
and industrial thermography.
What is Thermography?
Infrared thermography is the use of an infrared imaging system to detect, display, and record
thermal patterns and temperature values across a given surface.
The concept of thermography is simple.
All objects above absolute zero�or zero Kelvin�emit infrared radiation.
While infrared energy is invisible to the human eye, it is detectable with a thermal
imager, also known as an infrared camera.
Infrared data obtained can be observed in real time or captured to videotape, PC card,
or electronic media for post-analysis.
Today�s modern thermal imagers are video camera- like devices, which often can fit
in the palm of your hand.
A thermal imager converts the invisible infrared imaging into a monochrome or multicolored
image, which represents the apparent thermal patterns across the surface of the object
being inspected.
When recorded on photographic film or paper, these images are referred to as thermograms.
Many modern imagers are also capable of recording temperature, as well.
Once captured, thermal images and associated temperatures can be stored for future reference
and analysis.
Infrared thermography is both noncontact and nondestructive.
Infrared inspections require no interruption of service.
Additionally, thermal imagers emit no harmful radiation, and are completely passive.
Why Thermography?
As we move further into the 21st century, companies will continue to face the demands
associated with a global economy.
These demands include increased competition, both domestically and abroad.
As the world becomes smaller, the number of competitors expands.
No longer will it be enough to be the most competitive in the nation.
Companies must strive to be the best in the world.
In a global economy, companies must turn out the highest quality products in an efficient
manner, with less manpower, while remaining profitable.
Oftentimes, this requirement is coupled with the prospect of performing more maintenance
tasks with fewer personnel.
With these demands in mind, many companies are utilizing predictive maintenance technologies
to help meet their objectives.
While infrared thermography is one of the newest nondestructive technologies, it can
help to provide substantial improvements in performance, as well as tremendous cost savings.
Other proven technologies include vibration analysis, oil analysis, and ultrasound, to
name a few.
Uses of Thermography There are many uses for thermography.
These include, but are not limited to, preventive maintenance, predictive maintenance, condition
monitoring, forensic investigations, research and development, and quality assurance.
In short, thermography may be applied to any situation where knowledge of thermal patterns
across a given surface can provide meaningful data about a structure, process, object, or
system.
Thermography is a growing field where new applications are being developed.
The use of thermography is often limited only by one�s imagination.
Common Industrial Applications As stated previously, thermography can be
applied to a wide range of systems, objects, and structures.
Common industrial applications include electrical distribution systems, to locate loose or deteriorating
connections, overloads, imbalanced loads, open circuits, defective equipment, and symptoms
of harmonics; mechanical systems, to detect excessive friction, misalignment, improper
lubrication, and belt tension; structural systems, to locate water infiltration into
building side-walls and flat roof systems, detect building energy loss, and locate the
delaminations or voids in masonry structures; petrochemical refineries, to identify missing
or damaged refractory within boilers, furnaces, and kilns, and to monitor process equipment
for proper operation; research and development, for numerous applications, including thermal
profiling for printed circuit boards and components, as well as evaluating the thermal performance
of a variety of industrial and consumer items.