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Infrared Thermography (IR) is a non-intrusive method used to monitor the condition of in-use equipment, based on temperature values. Infrared is a natural enhancement to the performance of visual inspections.

As a condition-based monitoring (CBM) technology for manufacturing, infrared thermography is one of the most adaptable technologies with applications for mechanical, electrical, and stationary equipment uses. Once you know how to use a thermal imaging system properly, you will be able to see what you previously could not, and use the thermal information to help solve them.

Beware! You will quickly see infrared thermal imaging equipment is not difficult to use. Although easy to use, misinterpretation is common with this tool.

Strive to become the person in your plant or facility who knows the most about your critical equipment’s operating history and current condition.

How Does Infrared Thermography Work?

Wavelengths between 2 and 100 micrometers (µm) or microns in length are designated infrared radiation. The infrared detecting equipment commonly used are designed to detect radiation between 2-15µm.

With proper setup/use of your camera; and considering emissivity, relative humidity, wind speed, ambient temperature, background temperature, angle-of-view, spot size, focus, and range, you’ll get an apparent temperature of the surface being measured that is pretty close to precise. Exact temperature values can only be confirmed utilizing a contact probe, as conditions utilizing an Infrared Camera are rarely perfect.