Infrared
INFRARED THERMOGRAPHY
Infrared (IR) thermography is a non-destructive testing method used to measure thermal gradients in energy emitted by electrical and mechanical systems. From these gradients, competent thermographers identify variations in energy emissions that are traceable to potential asset failure modes. IR emissions often enable analysts to identify problems that are concerns otherwise undetectable using visual or mechanical inspections
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Some beneficial IR applications include evaluating electrical power distribution systems under load, assessing insulated transfer and heating/cooling systems, and evaluating the structural integrity of furnaces, amongst many others. Occasionally, IR studies are performed in conjunction with oil analysis, vibration analysis and ultrasonic testing as part of a specialized study. ITR’s IR expertise includes helping companies identify the applications where IR studies offer the most return on investment and avoiding those applications where the cost is high and return is low.
IDENTIFIABLE AND ACTIONABLE PROBLEMS USING INFRARED THERMOGRAPHY INCLUDE:
- Loose electrical connections
- Damaged or corroded electrical connections
- Structural degradation
- Refractory degradation and heat-loss
- Coupling integrity issues
- Lubrication issues
- Electrical control issues