Abstract:

Infrared thermography is utilized for a wide variety of industrial applications. Thermography can also provide interesting imagery in areas outside of traditional applications.

An exciting safari to the Etosha Pan in Namibia, Africa by Mr. Allinson resulted in infrared video clips of Great White Shark breaches and game animals.

This presentation will share his footage and illustrate the use of the features of an infrared camera that are capable of capturing “burst recordings” and the software that enables post-processing of the video footage.

Abstract:

Public awareness of mold and moisture-related sickness has grown over the past few years.

This awareness has demanded that water intrusion problems in buildings be solved. Infrared technology has been shown to be a viable tool for meeting some of these demands, as evidenced by some cameras being designed and manufactured specifically for the task.

By far, the leading causes of water intrusion problems are inferior design and construction, and the natural degradation of water-sealing building materials over time.

As a thermographer performing infrared surveys on buildings and roofs throughout the Southeast US over the past several years, I have been provided some great opportunities to observe a wide variety of water intrusion problems.

This paper contains several case studies of infrared inspections performed on buildings that have experienced water damage caused by hurricanes, summer climates of extreme heat, high humidity and heavy rains, and other age-related ailments. Infrared images showing delaminating stucco, wall cracks, deteriorated sealants, roof damage, and other related problems are presented.

Abstract:

Sulfur Hexafluoride (SF6), used as an insulator in high-voltage utility equipment, has been targeted for emissions reduction by the EPA. Together, the EPA and many major utility companies are working to better control SF6emissions because it contributes more to the greenhouse effect than any other gas and has a projected atmospheric life of 3,200 years.

This presentation will explore how a recent technological advancement in infrared thermography allows us to detect SF6 in real time.

Some of the benefits of using this technology will be highlighted, including decreasing SF6emissions, helping to preserve the environment, and detecting more than twenty other fugitive gases.

Abstract:

In 2006, a study titled, “Thermographic Assessment of Cold Stimulation on Autonomic Vascular Reactions” was conducted to determine the potential usefulness of thermal imaging to evaluate and monitor autonomic vascular reactions, and to establish whether thermal imagery could be used to effectively detect pre-clinical stages of circulatory problems.

In 2007, this topic was revisited to expand on previous findings by evaluating whether there is a correlation with thermographic assessment of vascular reactions among three distinct groups of participants using Body Mass Index (BMI), heart rate and stress.

Abstract:

Infrared Thermography is one of the most useful inspection tools to help locate problems in steam reformers while the units are online and fired.

This paper will discuss the three main areas of a steam reformer that can be efficiently inspected with thermography.

It will also discuss common inspection and diagnostic practices used in the industry today and how some of these practices are unknowingly wrong and may have a large impact on the data that have been collected over many years.

Abstract:

In 1996, Brian Thomas, a well-known staff member at SPIE, published a book entitled “The Internet for Scientists and Engineers” describing the many communications tools and resources available via the internet.

He published several others books and the field of internet information has never looked back. Some of his work has helped put SPIE at the forefront of digital technology in professional society services.

The internet has changed dramatically since that first book and today it offers tools and resources for technically oriented professionals that literally defy description.

This paper will summarize a few of the specialized ones specially available for infrared thermographers as well as some more general purpose ones that can save time, enhance communications and help expand a small business as well as educate everyone.

Abstract:

Nearly all arc flash incidents occur when someone is working live with switchgear covers removed. However, using infrared viewing panes as a part of your IR inspection program eliminates the risks associated with live thermography.

When there are fewer risks, more inspections can be completed due to safer access, and this reduces the number of equipment failures because of routine monitoring under loaded conditions. IR inspections are becoming so common that electrical switchgear manufacturers are fitting viewing panes, grills and mesh screens in an attempt to make their panels infrared friendly.

NFPA 70E regulations restrict access to live components by defining a series of boundaries related to working with energized electrical equipment. Flash protection boundaries define the safe working distances in which any tradesman can operate. Thermographers must be fully conversant with these regulations, especially if they intend to remove covers for a live inspection.

This paper will discuss in detail the material limitations and inspection methodologies associated with IR viewing ports, and the benefits of their use with regards to NFPA 70E compliance.

Abstract:

Aerial infrared (IR) thermal imagery from surveys of large facilities, industrial complexes, campuses, military bases, and cities can be used for many purposes.

Steam and condensate return lines, hot water lines, chilled water lines, supply water mains, distribution piping, storm water drains, sewer lines, electrical switchgear and buildings can all be monitored by looking at surface temperatures and thermal patterns.

Having one giant thermal and visual image of a campus can help facility managers improve their preventive maintenance programs and to comply with various energy and regulatory requirements.

This paper shows examples of how thermal and visual data are collected, processed, delivered, and the many ways they are used to benefit an owner.

Abstract:

Incorporating ultrasound and infrared technologies to diagnose equipment anomalies can provide the necessary information needed to make a reliable judgment regarding what course of action should be taken.

While infrared will detect anomalies related to heat, ultrasound can be used to analyze the test subject through changes in sound intensity levels and spectral analysis.

This presentation will review the information provided through ultrasound and infrared thermography on specific equipment components that helped lead to successful diagnoses.