Skip to main content

609.239.4788

IR/INFO Conference
Proceedings 2010


List of articles contained in the IR/INFO 2010 Proceedings:

Wireless Monitoring of Electrical Enclosures with Case Studies

Baier, Fred

Level III Certified Infrared Thermographer
Delta T Engineering, LLC

136 Main Street Metuchen, NJ 08840

877-321-0576

www.iriss.com/deltat
fred@deltatengineering.com

Abstract:

Thermography is a proven technology for detecting elevated temperatures within operating electrical distribution systems. Typically performed on an annual basis, infrared inspections can detect evidence of overheating caused by loose/deteriorated connections, overloaded circuits, and imbalanced loads.

While infrared inspections can be valuable in helping to prevent unexpected failures, they provide a single “snapshot”, leaving the subject components unmonitored for the balance of the year.

Recent advances in technology have resulted in wireless sensors that monitor for the same types of defects that are detectable by thermal imaging. When permanently installed on electrical enclosures, these sensors can provide year-round monitoring of electrical system components and can immediately alert personnel when problems arise.

This paper will discuss the theory and application of the Delta T Alert monitoring system and how it can be used to complement and enhance the effectiveness of an existing infrared inspection program within commercial office buildings. A few case studies showing the effectiveness of Delta T Alert will also be presented within this paper.

What Do You Mean Compressed Air Isn’t Free? We Breathe It Every Day!

Bandes, Alan

UE Systems, Inc.

914-592-1220 / 800-223-1325

info@uesystems.com

Abstract:

Compressed air surveys can dramatically reduce plant overhead and have a positive effect on the air we breathe. Compressed air isn’t free and compressed air leaks actually impact the air we breathe.

Compressed air is almost ubiquitous in many facilities. It is used, and at times misused, to regulate controllers, power tools, or move products through processes. It is also a large source of wasted energy. It costs a lot of money to produce and use.

Yet, there are many people directly involved with this utility that have the misunderstanding that it is cheap and almost “free”. For this reason, compressed air is often misused and leaks a left alone as “background noise”. The US Department of energy has estimated that 30% of all compressed air produced in the US is lost to leaks.

If you calculate the loss in dollars, this can add up to approximately $3.2 billion!!! Now, add the impact on the environment with the build up of carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxide and sulphur dioxide (the “carbon footprint” gases), and the cost extends beyond the plant to our planet.

Unfortunately, it almost seems like a cliché to read or hear about energy conservation and its impact on our planet in a way that is good news, since people are now aware of the need to reduce energy use.

The bad news is that very few actually do anything about it and even worse, there are many more that do not understand how easy it can be to cut energy costs and reduce their carbon footprint, especially many of us in the industrial/commercial sector.

This presentation will discuss the logistics of a compressed air leak survey and new developments in software that will help you learn how to manage a compressed air leak survey, assure repairs have been made, and report the results to management. In addition to calculating the cost of air leaks, it will report on carbon footprint savings from the survey.

Motor Repair or Replacement? The Green Solution

Bethel, Noah P.

Project Development Manager
PdMA Corporation

5909C Hampton Oaks Parkway Tampa, FL 33610

813-621-6463, ext. 124

www.pdma.com
pdma@pdma.com

Abstract:

The ever present emphasis on technological efficiency is just one of several forces behind the pressure on companies to “go green” despite a trying economy.

The ultimate criterion that determines whether a motor is truly green is energy efficiency. Technology, long the key to efficiency, can help resolve this issue through detailed computerized analysis of the motor, the power environment in which it operates, and even its reliability.

A Phased Approach for Infrared Inspections of Large Building Envelopes

Brady, James

Level III Certified Infrared Thermographer
Brady Infrared Inspections, Inc.

935 Pine Castle Court Stuart, FL 34996

772-288-9884

jbrady@bradyinfrared.com
www.bradyinfrared.com

Abstract:

Since the 1970’s, thermal imaging has been utilized to diagnose the thermal performance of commercial and residential buildings. Rising energy prices combined with greater public awareness have created record demand for professional thermographers as building owners focus their attention on energy conservation and building performance.

Having a well thought out plan of execution, from selling the job to completing the final report will increase the likelihood of success when performing infrared inspections on large building complexes.

This paper details infrared inspections of a 1,500 room hotel and adjoining convention center with a combined total flat roof area of over 500,000 square feet and exterior wall heights in excess of 100 feet. To accomplish this project, a phased approach was used that included aerial infrared and follow-up walk-on roof inspections, exterior wall inspections, and interior inspections investigating specific problem areas.

Integrated Pest Thermography

Bruni, Bart

Level 1 Thermographer #6455
Bestec Home Inspections

323 SE First Avenue Hallandale Beach, FL 330096

954-458-5357

www.bestechomeinspections.com

Abstract:

Pest thermography is a new and growing application.

Over the last five years, improvements have been made with respect to inspection methods and technologies. This has created a new foundation for IR pest inspections called “Integrated Pest Thermography” or IPT.

This paper will briefly review some of the IPM methods used in IR pest inspections and how infrared pest inspections have been refined and integrated with inspection techniques from other industries.

Thermal Imaging for Testing and Balancing HVAC Systems

Cannamela, John

President
Infrared Survey

4504 Magnolia Ridge Drive Waxhaw, NC 28173

704-200-6367

www.infraredsurvey.com

Abstract:

Testing and balancing of HVAC systems is important not only for energy and design requirements, but also for the comfort of building occupants.

It’s not easy to see if someone is uncomfortable and impossible to make everyone comfortable. Testing involves many instruments – most of which measure temperature, volume, and velocity of fluids, with air being one of those fluids.

Air movement is a necessary requirement in buildings. Where and how air moves is not easy to control once it leaves the ductwork.

Although chemical smoke is often used to study air currents, it does not indicate the thermal effect of air currents which can affect the comfort of occupants.

This paper will discuss the use of thermal imaging to study building air currents associated with the HVAC system. It will also discuss how thermography can aid in improving occupant comfort and HVAC system performance.

“Competitive Advantage” Tips for Survival and Growth of Your Infrared Business

Cawlfield, Scott

President
Logos Computer Solutions, Inc.

3801 14th Avenue West Seattle, WA 98119

206-217-0577

www.LogosComputer.com
ScottC@LogosComputer.com

Abstract:

You just called one of your major customers to schedule their annual inspection and they let you know that they will not need your infrared services this year.

You asked them why, since you have been giving them good professional service for the last 5 years, and they tell you that they chose another company who charges $50 a day less for the inspection.

This is the third large customer that you have lost in the last 3 months. You ask yourself: “What is happening and how can I stop it?”

In today’s marketplace, with a recession/recovery going on and many customers with tight budgets, how do you differentiate your infrared business from the others?

In this paper, I will discuss “competitive advantage” in the infrared industry, trends to watch and capitalize on, and what has worked for other successful infrared companies.

Infrared Imaging of Tanks, Vessels, and Heat Exchangers for Contaminants, Inclusions, and Abnormalities for a Condition Monitoring & Predictive Tool

DiFrancia, Salvatore

A.T.T. Infrared Services
(formerly American Thermo Tech)

3540 W. Sahara Avenue, Suite 121
Las Vegas, NV 89102

562-492-9500

chiefengr90808@yahoo.com

Abstract:

Infrared imaging of industrial enclosures such as processing tanks, pressure vessels, and heat exchangers has historically been performed on a random basis to record levels of fluids and solids.

The results of the scanning always reveal and support some process control management for that specified condition and time, but the aspects of more elaborate condition process and monitoring techniques to support a wider scope imposes many challenges in development of the infrared technology and tools in all parameters.

Detecting Median Mononeuropathy and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome through Radiometric Thermal Imaging

Edwards, Shay

University of California Riverside
Computer Sciences Corporation

NSWC Corona Division

951-735-9003

skedwards@charter.net

Abstract:

The primary objective of this study was to determine if radiometric thermography could detect Median Mononeuropathy in the articulatio radiocarpalis. A secondary objective was to establish the efficiency of thermal imagery as a viable technique for establishing the trends of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Median Mononeuropathy.

Whereas an x-ray indicates structural anomalies, thermography can point out functional anomalies. In this study, participants were instructed to use their dominant hand to repetitively squeeze a rubber ball for a brief period of time. A thermal imager was then used to image and record temperatures across the subject’s wrist area.

Subjects known to have carpal tunnel syndrome or Median Mononeuropathy exhibited elevated temperatures in the wrist area. Similar results were observed in subjects with compromised circulatory systems even though they had not been previously diagnosed as having carpal tunnel syndrome or Median Mononeuropathy.

This research suggests that thermal imaging offers potential to identify predisposition to Median Mononeuropathy not related to repetitive motion.

Case Study: How & Why Consolidated Edison Uses IR Thermography to Inspect Underground Power Cables

Frail, Thomas F.

Senior Engineering Technician A
Joseph Watts, Associate Engineer A
Erica LeCount, Management Associate

Consolidated Edison of New York
4 Irving Place New York, NY 10003

212-780-3717

frailt@coned.com

Abstract:

Underground feeder cables are a critical component of Con Edison’s electrical distribution network.

Operating at voltages of up to 13,000 volts, underground feeder cables are a common feature in the City of New York and surrounding areas. Like above ground conductors, these cables are subject to failures associated with loose/deteriorated connections, overloads, and unbalanced loads.

Recognizing that thermal imaging could detect incipient cable faults, Con Edison undertook a research project to correlate typical underground cable faults with infrared imagery.

This paper will discuss the results of laboratory results and how Con Edison is utilizing thermal imaging to help ensure underground power cable reliability.

Resistance in Circuit Breakers

Garber, Warren C.

NETA Test Technician, Infraspection Level III Thermographer
Industrial Electric Testing, Inc.

11321 West Distribution Avenue Jacksonville, Florida 32256

904-260-8378

www.industrialelectrictesting.com

Abstract:

As thermographers, we see many thermal anomalies in switchgear and panelboards. However, finding the actual root cause of what appears to be high contact resistance is not as straightforward as you may think. Circuit breakers have many internal mechanical connections, all of which can radiate heat under load.

Misdiagnosing thermal anomalies can result in added time, wasted money and unnecessary damage to critical equipment. Additionally, there is the frustration involved with finding that same problem during the follow-up inspection, and then having to explain to the customer or your boss why the money that was spent to tighten the “connection problem” didn’t rectify the problem.

In this presentation I will discuss the parts of circuit breakers and the ways that those parts can cause thermal anomalies commonly called “connection problems”. I will show, using a primary injection test set, how different connections within the breakers will produce thermal anomalies and I will then demonstrate a voltage drop technique to determine the location of the abnormal resistance.

Quantitatively Correlating Gold Cup Pyrometer and Infrared Thermography Data of A Steam Reformer’s Tubes

James, Sonny

Level III Certified Infrared Thermographer
Owner, Senior Instructor / Managing Director
NDE Institute of Trinidad, Ltd. / Thermal Diagnostics Ltd.

15 Robertson Street, Les Efforts East San Fernando, Trinidad & Tobago, West Indies

868-653-9343 / 868-657-6572

www.learnndt.com
www.tdlir.com
sjames@learnndt.com

Abstract:

Maintaining proper reformer and process heater tubes temperatures within petrochemical plants is critical to the life of the tubes. Reformer and furnace tube replacement is extremely costly and time consuming. Furthermore, tube failures can potentially escalate to catastrophic failure of the vessel or even plant.

However, acquiring accurate tube temperature is extremely difficult and often misunderstood. Plant operators and engineers routinely measure their own temperatures using handheld spot pyrometers or thermal imagers, however unless there is an accepted means of acquiring actual contact reference temperatures, any non-contact temperatures measured will be inaccurate within a range outside the acceptable error tolerances.

This paper will discuss an actual exercise conducted on a multi-row box type steam reformer to determine the viability of acquiring quantitative temperature data within acceptable tolerances using a gold cup pyrometer as the contact reference and a radiometric thermal imager as the non-contact working thermometer.

How and Why I Got Into Medical Thermography

James, Sonny

IACT Certified Thermographic Technician
Managing Director
Thermal Diagnostics Limited – Medical Division

15 Robertson Street, Les Efforts East San Fernando, Trinidad & Tobago, West Indies

868-653-9343 / 868-657-6572

www.infraredclinic.com
info@tdlir.com

Abstract:

Thermography is one of the most widely-applied nondestructive test technologies in the world. Like many other NDT technologies, thermography has also made its way into the medical field. Thermography is capable of detecting a wide range of conditions including soft tissue injuries, Inflammations, circulatory problems, and breast cancer.

This paper discusses how Medical Thermography differs from other diagnostic modalities along with challenges it has had and currently has with peer acceptance. This paper will also discuss the journey the author went through to introduce Medical Digital Infrared Imaging within his region.

Infrared Imaging Technology Detects Storage Tank Gas Emissions in a Flash

Kochanek, Ed

FLIR Systems, Inc.

25 Esquire Road North Billerica, MA 01862

978-901-8000

www.flirthermography.com

Abstract:

Faulty equipment and poor maintenance practices often lead to excessive gas emissions that can result in lost revenue, environmental damage, regulatory fines, and compromised plant and public safety. Finding unknown leak sites allows for better preventive maintenance planning and repair, thus reducing overall tank emissions.

This paper will discuss the latest infrared imaging technology which utilizes a special infrared detector and cold filter to help quickly visualize invisible gas leaks in real-time. We will also discuss how optical imaging can be used to aid in the detection and reduction of hydrocarbon gas emissions from storage tanks.

Using IR Thermography as a Predictive Maintenance Tool in an Electronics Manufacturing Facility

Montgomery, Michael R.

Level III Certified Infrared Thermographer
Delphi Electronics & Safety

2033 East Boulevard Kokomo, IN 46904

765-451-1202

www.delphi.com

michael.r.montgomery@delphi.com

Abstract:

Electronics are critical components in modern motor vehicles. From engine and power train controls to storage batteries for hybrid vehicles, electronic components are an integral part of several diverse systems. Proper manufacture of automotive electronics is critical to both safety and reliability of a vehicle.

This paper will discuss the use of infrared thermography as predictive maintenance tool in an automotive electronics manufacturing facility. This paper will also include how thermography is used in research and development of new products and manufacturing processes.

“It’s an IR World After All”

Owens, Robert

Project Coordinator
Walt Disney World Resort
Design and Engineering – Facility Support Services

3401 Vista Boulevard Lake Buena Vista, FL 34744

407-939-4219

robert.owens@disney.com

Abstract:

What do you do when you have an infrared camera in your department and few understand what it does or have training to use it?

What do you do when you have a limited infrared program with a large diverse property? Who has the need for infrared services in a large company like the Walt Disney World Resort? How are decisions made to spend for repairs and corrections? Where do you start your program?

Whether you work at a large company or are starting an infrared business; you need to ask these questions and understand the needs of your company or potential clients.

Those are some of the questions that came up when we at Design and Engineering discovered we had an infrared camera.

Spectral Emissivity in Infrared Applications

Peacock, G. Raymond

Publisher & Editor
MeasurementMedia Division

Temperatures.com, Inc. Southampton, PA 18966

215-325-1450

Skype: grp362

Abstract:

One of the prime factors in accurate temperature measurement using infrared thermography is the often maligned and much misunderstood parameter of spectral emissivity. Many times in making thermographic images, it is necessary to correct for an object’s spectral emissivity. Using an incorrect value can cause large errors. Sometimes, just making an emissivity correction can add extra error into the measurement.

This tutorial will discuss when and how to use spectral emissivity without knowing any actual values.

Next, it will review just how one can find a practical value to use in a given measurement situation.

Finally, it will introduce some resources to help guide your choices. Please note that the term “spectral emissivity” is the more precise term for the correction needed, simply because the different spectral responses for individual thermal imaging cameras and spot infrared thermometers and different responses can often mean different correction values.

Paper Mill Saves Budget Dollars with IR Window Program

Robinson, Martin

President
IRISS, Inc.

4914 Lena Road, Suite 105 Bradenton, FL 34211

941-907-9128

www.iriss.com
m.robinson@iriss..com

Abstract:

Infrared windows provide a cost-effective and safer alternative to traditional inspections. This paper will discuss how this mill realized a return on investment very quickly while benefiting from the other intangibles of infrared windows.

Namely: The ability to inspect the previously un-inspectable equipment; the ability to inspect critical applications more frequently; the ability to more aggressively monitor any applications which are suspected to be running to failure; increase in safety for personnel; decrease in risk to plant assets and operations due to non-invasive nature of inspection – safeguarding profitability and freeing up critical personnel who can be utilized for other valuable jobs in the plant rather than removing and reinstalling panels.

Case studies will also be presented.

Horses In Color: The Role of Thermal Imaging in The Equine Industry

Robson, Joanna, L.

DVM, CVSMT, CMP, CVA, SFT
Inspiritus Equine, Inc.

8 Golden Gate Circle Napa, CA 94558

707-738-7110

jrobsondvm@inspiritusequine.com
equinethermalimaging.info

Abstract:

Thermal imaging isn’t new to the horse world, though it’s finding its renaissance in today’s performance-charged equine industry.

As thermal camera technology has improved, and standardization in equine imaging is introduced, this diagnostic tool is finding its niche in equine veterinary practice and the horse industry as a whole.

Thermal imaging is helping to identify and pinpoint hidden injuries and inflammation, aids in saddle-fitting, may prevent breakdowns and determine whether a horse is ready to compete, provides insight during pre-purchase examinations, and also benefits farriers and general practitioners.

With trained technicians and veterinary interpretation, thermal imaging is finally taking its deserved place among traditional radiography and ultrasound as a useful, non-invasive, diagnostic modality.

Thermal imaging provides a whole new vision of equine health.

Add more Flav-IRs Expand your Business and Expand your Opportunities!

Stockton, Gregory R. &
Hopkins, Peter

United Infrared

8472 Adams Farm Road Randleman, NC 27317 888-SCAN-4-IR

www.unitedinfrared.com
info@unitedinfrared.com

Abstract:

The opportunities in infrared are endless! Do you really want to limit yourself to just one or two applications? By diversifying your business, you are not hindered by the same economic cutbacks as specialized companies.

It is a good idea to specialize, but to expand your business at the same time. This presentation is dedicated to helping you achieve an understanding of the opportunities that await you.

By incorporating new ideas like infrared into your existing business, you can make up for lost revenue. “Diversify or Die” appears to be holding true.

Rather than take on a completely new field of work, why not expand on what you do? If you are a home inspector, you are a natural candidate for the opportunities in building inspection that infrared presents.

If you are already an infrared contractor, by learning about different applications of infrared, you can maximize your market and increase your sales.

This presentation is ideal for the new thermographer all the way to the experienced and successful thermography business owner. Topics discussed:

  • How getting into the business is not as hard as you may think
  • How to select a camera
  • How do you diversify your business
  • How long does it take to be successful as an IR thermographer
  • How does one get trained on so many applications of infrared

Thermal Imaging and Its Application in Advanced Energy Auditing

Tanner, Allen P.

Tanner Contractors

17 Echo Ridge Drive Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

518-526-5167

www.tannercontractors.com

Abstract:

Thermal imaging is a proven technology for detecting excess energy loss and latent moisture within building envelopes. Rising energy prices and a greater public interest in energy conservation have resulted in record demand for energy audits.

Combined with lower costs for thermal imagers, this demand creates new business opportunities for building inspectors and energy auditors.

Properly utilized, thermal imaging can help to detect a wide array of building deficiencies including latent moisture, missing and misapplied insulation, and pest damage.

This paper will focus on the proper use of infrared thermography in examining building envelopes and how it can help to improve the accuracy of building energy audits.

The above articles are available for purchase by calling:
609-239-4788