Infrared thermography is a technique used for detecting the infrared energy that is emitted from various objects. The sensors used in this method can convert infrared energy signatures into temperature to create a telling image of thermal anomalies.
These very attributes of infrared thermographic testing can be used for carrying our tests to determine the safety of mechanical and electrical systems, buildings, boilers and so on. These tests should always be carried out by certified thermographers so as to ensure that the tests results are accurate and reliable. Property owners and facility managers are increasingly counting on this test and evaluation method to spot potentially dangerous problems that might not be detected via conventional test methods.
Advantages of infrared thermography
The advantages of this testing method arenâEUR(TM)t limited to it being inherently safe. Here is an overview of some other major advantages of infrared thermographic testing:
Non-invasive and non-destructive
This method makes use of temperature-sensing scanners that can be used from a distance. For instance, if you need to inspect components in your boiler system, this can be accomplished using high-end sensors located several feet away from the system. One doesnâEUR(TM)t need to interrupt system production or implement costly system shutdowns.
Versatile
Infrared thermographic testing can be used to determine the safety and integrity of a myriad of systems and structures. Typically, it is used for inspecting buildings, roofing, moisture detection, insulation systems, electrical circuit overloads or wiring issues, weak spots in buildings, and so on.
Saves time
Large systems and structures can be tested in a short period of time. Testing is carried out in real-time, which means that shutdowns are absolutely unnecessary.
Saves money
By detecting problems and hazards in time, property owners and facility managers stand to save a lot of time and money that they would have otherwise spent on fixing the problem. When regularly implemented as a preventative maintenance method, infrared thermography can prove to be an incredibly huge cost-saver in the long run.
Oftentimes, physical inspections leave a lot to be desired in terms of comprehensiveness and accuracy. This is where infrared thermographic testing comes into the picture. In addition to this testing method there are other modern test and evaluation techniques such as ultrasonic scanning and infrared scanning. These methods accurately pinpoint thermal anomalies in heating and boiler systems and liquefied natural gas storage tanks.
All these factors have made infrared thermography an essential tool for property owners and plant and facility managers. However, to ensure the reliability and authenticity of the inspection reports, it is imperative that these inspection services are provided only by certified thermographers engaged by reputable firms. You could invest it in it as an annual or bi-annual preventative program for best results.