Thermographic Testing
Thermographic testing, also known as infrared inspection, is a predictive maintenance method that helps maintain the longevity of equipment. Available only as part of our comprehensive factory maintenance plan, it involves using thermal cameras to monitor how heat flows through equipment. Thermography measures surface temperatures by using infrared video and still cameras. These tools see light that is in the heat spectrum. Images on the video or film record the temperature variations of the building’s skin, ranging from white for warm regions to black for cooler areas. Our skilled predictive maintenance technicians have the training and experience to capture and analyze the data-driven metrics provided by this technology to increase your asset availability. Thermographic testing, also known as infrared inspection, is a predictive maintenance method that helps maintain the longevity of equipment. Available only as part of our comprehensive factory maintenance plan, it involves using thermal cameras to monitor how heat flows through equipment. Thermographic testing, also known as infrared inspection, is a predictive maintenance method that helps maintain the longevity of equipment. Available only as part of our comprehensive factory maintenance plan, it involves using thermal cameras to monitor how heat flows through equipment.
Baseline Thermography
Baseline thermography is a good place to start for just about any application. First, you scan the equipment when it’s first commissioned or later in the lifecycle when it is working the way it should be, and then use that as a reference point for future inspections. Whether you compare the thermal images on your camera in the field, or on your PC using software tools, this baseline approach paves the way to helping you spot anomalies down the road.
Thermal trending thermography
Once you’ve set your baseline, you can use thermal trending inspections to compare how temperature is distributed in the same components over time. This can help you detect declining performance over time so that you can hopefully schedule downtime maintenance before equipment schedules it for you. Comparing temperature profiles of similar components to identify anomalies and other differences.
Comparative thermography
We can scan similar components with thermal camera under similar conditions and compare the results. This method relies on the idea that you expect similar or identical components, under similar loads, to have similar temperature profiles. Once you have three or more components it’s relatively easy to pick up an anomaly. Depending on the components being compared, the actual temperature difference that can be considered an anomaly will vary.
Benefits of thermographic testing
Maintenance cost reduction: By detecting problems early — well before they affect production — and scheduling repairs for times when productivity will be minimally impacted, thermographic testing can reduce costly unplanned downtime and make an impact on the operational bottom line.
Fast detection of temperature conditions: Other condition tests, such as vibration testing, can take several minutes and often must be carried out individually. Thermographic testing can occur much more quickly and can present an overall image of a particular machine at one time, allowing for faster action.
Increased equipment service life: Excess heat is one of the leading causes of premature equipment wear, damage, and failure, eventually resulting in refurbishment or replacement. By identifying temperature increases, thermographic testing can help manufacturers reduce or prevent heat damage, extending the service life of equipment and lengthening the time between repairs and equipment purchases.
Improved safety: High temperatures are not only indicators of potential safety issues, but they are also safety risks themselves. Tracking temperature conditions and fluctuations can result in a safer facility.
Typical applications for thermography testing
Bearing monitoring
Electrical cabinet monitoring
Detecting leaks
Insulation monitoring
Process temperature analysis