How to Achieve Results Using Infrared Technology

Austin Dunne

The Importance of Infrared Technology

The author, from a background as a full time infrared thermographer in industry, understands the benefits of running an in-house programme, and acknowledges that success was due to the experimental exposure gained over many years working with infrared technology to the exclusion of any other duties, plus the support of senior management which allowed time to conquer a steep learning curve. It is easy to buy equipment, but quite another matter to find an effective person able to provide quality data that will enhance a maintenance programme. As with many condition monitoring techniques, infrared thermography is a skilled art form that requires technician and engineeers to be educated in infrared physics, have a thorough understanding of applications and be able to develop their knowledge with continual field experience.

Over the years many individuals have joined courses ‘just to get a certificate’. In reality, most technicians and engineers are shocked to learn that the methods they have employed in the past do not provide accurate temperature measurements. The infrared camera is a scientific instrument and is designed to give a data output based on a known condition, in this case it is usually set to measure objects which have a 100% efficiency to emit infrared radiation. In reality, this is theoretical as no such object exists. This is where the skilled technician excels; their awareness will lead them to alter the instrument to the correct parameters. Both emissivity and reflectivity have to be inputted correctly, as one of the initial stages to correct the instrument’s mathematical calculation with the aim of achieving quantitative analysis. Several other factors are required in order to achieve correct temperature measurements. When introducing an in-house programme, product training on cameras only covers the basic operation of the instrument and often fails to convey the complexity of using infrared instruments in the field.

Historically, infrared thermography certification was usually based on ASNT SNT TC 1A, the American standard which provides a guide or outline of the course content. This is a second party certification scheme usually operated by training providers who deliver a course and end of course examination, often requiring field work from the students to complete the process. The certificate is given to the student by the training provider on behalf of the company that employs the individual.

In Europe, some countries provide certification based on a third party principle, the training being delivered by a provider and the certification conducted by a separate organisation based on standards like EN473 or the Scandinavian equivalent. Third party examinations, being independent, provide a recognised competence level as the training organisation has no access to the examination questions, thus ensuring uniformity of minimum competences. Although considered to be superior to second party schemes, the process is fragmented and only operates in certain areas of the world and is not seen as a solution across continents.

Over recent years, the BINDT (British Institute of Non Destructive Testing) has taken the outline from an international standards group and used it as a platform for producing a certification scheme based on ISO 18436. They have developed this third party certification scheme using PCN (a well established accreditation body) to deliver a high quality process for qualifications in a range of condition monitoring techniques, including Infrared Thermography, Vibration Analysis, Acoustic Emission, Ultra-sound, etc. Industry should be seen to embrace a scheme designed to ensure the fundamentals are understood in each infrared technology, which promotes a minimum time requirement for practical experience prior to certification, whilst providing an independent assessment of each student. This scheme could grow rapidly and will ultimately be recognised as a world standard for training and certification in condition monitoring activities. Legislation on the use of infrared thermography is quite sketchy at the moment and it is not unusual to see a complete novice purchase these scientific instruments and offer services without any in-depth training or experience. This obviously allows a reduction in their charge-out rate and compromises consultants who compete in the field with high quality equipment, expert training and many years of practical experience. As more insurance companies now demand infrared inspections prior to the issue of their insurance certificates, it is essential that the survey is carried out by competent individuals. Industry must set standards to ensure consultants and practitioners obtain the required skills, training and experience to ensure the quality of data collected.

Footnote

The IIT is an Accredited Training Organisation for the BINDT and provides independent education, training and support to industry. Trainers are experienced thermographers who convey both the theoretical and practical aspects of infrared technology, and certification conforms to ISO 18436 and ASNT SNT TC 1A. The emphasis is to raise the awareness of thermography and develop skills in all industry sectors. Courses are offered in over 50 countries with training manuals in over 10 languages. IIT staff are always available to answer general enquires and questions on the certification processes

Principles of Insulation Testing

Probably 80% of all testing. performed in electrical power systems is related to the verification of insulation quality. This Cadick Corporation Technical Bulletin briefly describes the fundamental concepts of insulation testing including – insulation behavior, types of tests, and some test procedures. For more detailed information, refer to the bibliography at the end of the paper.

Top Tips for Selecting Pressure Measurement Transmitters

When selecting pressure measurement transmitters, the first stage is whether to opt for a transducer or a transmitter. Although the terms are often confused, there are several differences between transducer and transmitter devices. A transducer creates a low-level electronic signal in response to changes in applied or differential pressure. As with transmitters, transducers feature an internal sensor that converts the applied force into an electrical signal, from which the measurement is derived.

Gearbox Diagnostics Fault Detection

The paper deals with the method of gearbox diagnostics fault detection, and shows that using: design, production technology, operational, change of condition (DPTOCC) factors analysis leads to the inference of gearbox diagnostic information. In the paper is a review of the current possibilities for using mathematical modeling and computer simulation for investigating the dynamic properties of gearbox systems. Computer simulation of dynamic behavior of gearboxes is a powerful tool for supporting gearbox diagnostic inference.

What is Vibration?

In its simplest form, vibration can be considered to be the oscillation or repetitive motion of an object around an equilibrium position. The equilibrium position is the position the object will attain when the force acting on it is zero. This type of vibration is called "whole body motion", meaning that all parts of the body are moving together in the same direction at any point in time.

Why Record? Infrared Video

As the infrared industry continues to develop, documentation will become more important and required. Infrared video recording and data logging creates a database, making the thermographer and the end user accountable for all items surveyed, thereby reducing the liability and improving the quality for both the end user and infrared thermographer.

What You Should Know Before you Buy – A Guide to Buying an Infrared Camera

During Academy of Infrared Training courses, we see many students who have purchased an infrared camera that is not suited for their intended use. These students have put their trust in a camera salesperson, and, many times, that salesperson was solely interested making a sale. Later, these students are disappointed to find out that the camera is not truly suited for their application. This article aims to help the camera buyer understand what basic camera specifications mean, and also help them determine what type of camera and options are suitable for their application. If you note your answers to questions throughout this article, by the end you should have a custom list of applicable specifications and options.

Vibration & Ultrasound Technologies: A Possible Integrated Inspection Tool?

The purpose of this paper is to introduce condition monitoring and reliability engineers to the principles of using ultrasound for the assessment of machine condition. Ultrasound can be a complimentary technology to vibration, thermography and lubrication monitoring. It must be emphasized that it is rarely successful as a stand alone technology for effective machine condition assessment and subsequent required maintenance planning. This paper concentrates on the use of airborne ultrasound as a complementary technique particularly for machinery that may be inaccessible due to guards or hazardous locations.

How to Achieve Results Using Infrared Technology