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Alternatives to Thermal Images

Using thermograms to document exceptions is a time-tested common practice in thermography. At times, this practice can be cumbersome and confusing, especially with large structures.

Simply defined, thermograms are two-dimensional hardcopy images that represent the thermal patterns across the surface of an object. For years, thermographers have utilized film or paper to produce records of the imagery provided by their thermal imager. Traditionally, thermograms work well for small objects or for exceptions that are small in size.

Documenting thermal patterns on large structures such as multi-story buildings or flat roofs can prove to be a challenge. This challenge may be further compounded when observed exceptions are large in size. A simple solution to these challenges is to utilize architectural drawings, elevations, or schematics in place of, or in addition to, hardcopy thermograms. When utilizing drawings to document your infrared inspection, keep the following in mind:

• Prior to the infrared inspection, obtain drawings with sufficient detail
• Verify accuracy of drawings with the subject structure
• Be certain to verify site orientation with compass orientation
• During the inspection, mark the size and location of exceptions directly on drawings along with thermogram numbers, where appropriate

Whenever possible, obtain extra sets of drawings to be used as file copies or for field use. When utilized properly, drawings can serve as valuable reference tools enabling one to see “the big picture” that is often not possible with several small thermograms alone.

Infrared inspections of large structures is one of the many topics covered in the Infraspection Institute Level I Certified Infrared Thermographer® training course. For more information on class locations or our Distance Learning program, visit www.infraspection.com or call 609-239-4788.