THERMAL IMAGING
Thermal images are visual displays of the amount of infrared energy given off or transmitted by a certain object. Thermography, or the act of capturing this energy as an image, makes it possible to see something without visible illumination. Areas can be observed or measured that are normally invisible to the eye. When viewed with a thermal imaging camera, warm objects stand out well against cooler backgrounds.Thermography is one of the most cost effective methods of determining faults in all electrical, electronic and mechanical equipment for both commercial and residential properties. Thermal imaging has been used by building construction technicians to detect thermal signatures that can indicate heat leaks in faulty thermal insulation. They can also use the results of a thermography scan to improve the efficiency of heating and air-conditioning units.
Thermal imaging detects problems before they become serious and prevents sudden and costly disruptions due to emergency repairs. Energy-conscious builders have long been turning to thermal imaging to locate heat leaks in houses. But thermography can also be used to locate latent moisture and condensation in plumbing, HVAC systems, and roofing, as well as energy leaks in electrical panels and the potential for ice dams behind walls. And for builders that also do remodeling, infrared testing can even help detect pest infestation.
How thermal imaging works for you
All objects emit a thermal signature in the form of infrared radiation. The higher the temperature of an object, the higher the level of energy it radiates, and the “hotter” it looks on an image. A thermal imaging camera measures the energy levels and creates a colored picture with color values that distinguish hot from cold signatures.
Benefits of thermal imaging:
- It reduces down time. There is no need to shutdown operational systems during a thermal audit allowing production to continue as normal.
- It saves money. By early detection of faulty systems or components, remedial work can be planned and conducted before more serious problems or damage occurs which may cause long and unexpected interruptions to vital operational systems.
- It is fast and accurate. Thermal inspections can quickly scan and measure the temperature distribution of entire surfaces of machinery and electrical equipment under normal load conditions quickly and accurately with no need for lengthy preparation or pre-inspection work.
- It is a totally non-invasive process. Thermal Imaging is non-destructive and involves no physical contact and consequently there is no potential for damage to the systems or equipment undergoing thermal inspections.
- It reduces the potential for serious health and safety issues to occur. Early detection of problems will reduce the potential for injury to staff and risk of fire.
- It has revolutionized predictive maintenance inspection programs. By detecting problems and scheduling repairs before a major failure occurs, productivity, profitability and workplace safety are all increased.
