What Is Infrared Thermography?

Infrared Thermography (Thermal Imaging) is the technique of performing thermographic surveys using an infrared imaging camera to “see” invisible infrared energy (heat) emitted from an object.  Infrared (IR) or thermal energy is light that is not visible because its wavelength is too long to be detected by the human eye; it’s the part of the electromagnetic spectrum that we perceive as heat.  Unlike visible light, in the infrared world, everything with a temperature above absolute zero emits heat.  Even very cold objects, like ice cubes, emit infrared.

The higher the object’s temperature, the greater the IR radiation emitted. Infrared allows us to see what our eyes cannot. Infrared thermography cameras produce images of invisible infrared or “heat” radiation and provide precise non-contact temperature measurement capabilities.  Since electrical and mechanical systems produce excess heat when power is not properly transmitted, infrared cameras are extremely cost effective tools to help identify problems prior to equipment failure. Infrared Thermography provides a “snapshot” in time of equipment to help determine system reliability.

Infrared cameras convert invisible infrared energy or heat into a visible image which can be used to identify abnormal thermal conditions and assess the relative severity of a problem based on apparent temperatures.

Since electrical and mechanical systems produce excess heat when power is not properly transmitted, infrared cameras are extremely cost effective tools to help identify problems prior to equipment failure. Infrared Thermography provides a “snapshot” in time of equipment to help determine system reliability.

 How does an IR camera work?

An infrared camera is a non-contact device that detects infrared energy (heat) and converts it into an electronic signal, which is then processed to produce a thermal image on a video monitor and perform temperature calculations. Heat sensed by an infrared camera can be quantified, or measured, allowing you to not only monitor thermal performance, but also identify and evaluate the relative severity of heat-related problems.

Infrared Imaging can detect thermal anomalies in Electrical and Mechanical Systems, Heat loss in Building envelopes, and moisture intrusion.

Advantages of using Thermal Infrared Inspections

  •  Increase Equipment Life
  •  Tax Deductible Expense
  •  Electric Code Compliance
  •  Lower Repair Costs
  •  Increase Profits
  •  Save on Insurance
  •  Avoid Catastrophic Failures
  •  Personnel Safety

Take advantage of Infrared Thermographic Surveys to increase uptime, productivity and profitability.