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Thermal Imaging Basics

With tremendous emphasis placed upon the sophistication of today’s modern thermal imagers, it’s easy to forget the basics of thermal imaging. Regardless of imager age or sophistication, there are several basic concepts that can vastly increase the accuracy and success of an infrared inspection.

1. Select the proper spectral response imager for the application.

2. A clear line of sight to the target is required with no obstruction of the imager lens.

3. Imager optics must be clean and calibrated to the imager being used.

4. Target should be dry and at a stable temperature.

5. Imager focus is imperative to accurate diagnosis and temperature measurement. Be sure to focus imager and the viewfinder as well.

6. Knowing the construction, operation and characteristics of the system being inspected is vitally important to anticipating thermal patterns and performance.

7. Adverse atmospheric conditions such as wind, humidity, or solar reflection and solar loading should be avoided.

8. For electrical and mechanical equipment, the systems must be energized and under load; for structural inspections, a delta T of 10 C (18 F) is desired.

9. Discriminating small temperature differentials across targets with low emittance values can prove quite difficult.

10. Whenever safely possible, cross reference observed infrared temperature values with accurate contact temperature readings.

When performing any infrared inspection, be certain to take all necessary safety precautions and always work safely.

Infrared theory and imager operation are two of the many topics covered in the Infraspection Institute Level I Certified Infrared Thermographer^® training course. For more information including course locations and dates, visit Infraspection Institute online at www.infraspection.com or call us at 609-239-4788.