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IR/INFO Conference
Proceedings 2022


List of articles contained in the IR/INFO 2022 Proceedings:

Joe Anderson

COO Reliability X, The DNA of Success!

4926 Abbey Road
Coplay, PA 18037

Ph: 877-752-5899

Web: www.reliabilityx.com
Email: joseph.anderson@reliabilityx.com

Two Perspectives for Adding Value: Getting Value from Vendors and Giving Value to Clients

Abstract:

This presentation will give two different perspectives on value. From one perspective, as a maintenance manager as to how to get the most value from your vendors and suppliers and a second, from a vendor perspective on how to bring value to your clients.

This presentation will be insightful for maintenance and reliability practitioners and those on the other side trying to sell their services. 

Noah Bethel

CMRP PdMA Corporation

5909-C Hampton Oaks Parkway
Tampa, FL 33610

Ph: 813-621-6463 x124

Web: www.pdma.com
Email: noah@pdma.com

Permanently Installed Technology: The Major Advance in Motor Testing

Abstract:

The benefits of electrical motor testing are well documented. Traditionally performed with portable test equipment, electric motor testing is on the brink of a revolution. Retiring employees, pandemic work from home response, or just advances in technology and a desire for improved reliability are all legitimate reasons for the surge in interest for permanently installed electric motor test equipment with remote access. This article will explore each of these reasons and more to highlight the benefits of permanently installed electric motor testing technology.

James Brady

Level III Certified Infrared Thermographer,
Brady Infrared Inspections, Inc.

935 Pine Castle Court
Stuart, FL 34996

Tel: 772-288-9884

Web: www.bradyinfrared.com
Email: jbrady@bradyinfrared.com

Infrared Thermography and UAS Drones

Abstract:

During the past ten years, advances in technology and lower equipment costs have driven interest in the use of unmanned aerial systems to an all-time high. Since our investment in UAS Drones in 2018, we continue to find applications for their use on infrared thermography projects. Integrating them into our business has not gone without trail and error, but ultimately, they have proven to be an excellent tool for data collection.

This presentation will look at technical considerations for camera and drone functions as well as data collection. We will also look at some of the applications we have successfully completed using UAS Drones.

Bart Bruni

Level II Certified Infrared Thermographer

State Certified Termite and Pest Operator

Bruni Infrared, Inc.
326 Northlake Drive
North Palm Beach, FL 33408
Ph: 954-454-5357

www.BruniInfrared.com

Increase Your Recurring Income with UAV Environmental Services

Abstract:

At the end of the day, we are all in the service business, which provides us with a great opportunity for creating recurring income. UAV environmental nondestructive IR applications have expanded from commercial and household leaks to termite & pest or controlling the population of giant invasive Pythons. The environmental sector has many branches and is growing exponentially. To name a few: termite & pest control, agriculture, soil moisture evaluations, non-indigenous species control, building restoration services for high-rise and low-rise commercial buildings, interior and exterior subsurface moisture with mold testing, all sides of the parapet walls scan, roof moisture scans, disinfectant applications for outdoor venues, and more. This paper will explore the possibilities of environmental IR applications that have the potential for recurring income. It will also discuss what you need to know about tips before you invest and what the expected ROI would be to get started with a business plan for this exciting sector.

Valentino P. DeRocili

Ph.D. Level III Thermographer

Compliance Environmental, Inc.
150 South Bradford Street
Dover, DE 19904

Ph: 302-674-4427 x 101

Web: www.compliancecanhelp.com
Email: vderocili@compliancecanhelp.com

Performing Electrical Inspections to Broaden Your Thermography Services Portfolio

Abstract:

This presentation will explore the use of infrared thermography as a diagnostic tool to strengthen preventative maintenance of electrical systems. Examples from completed infrared inspections of electrical systems will be presented to learn from past experience and field situations. Basic electrical terminology will also be discussed to provide a foundation for performing infrared inspections.

Matthew Ferguson

President Facility Intregrations

42 Park Lane Circle
Newnan, GA 30265

Ph: 678-525-0690

Web: www.facilityintegrations.com
Email: matt@facilityintegrations.com

Electrical Discharge Detection as a Complement to Infrared Thermography

Abstract:

Infrared Thermography is well-known in industry for its ability to detect electrical diefects. One limitation of IR is that line of sight must be established with a surface that is being heated as a result of the discharge. In cases where gaining line of sight is not possible, detecting electrical discharge has historically been much more difficult. Facility Integrations’ Spark-EDD (Electrical Discharge Detection) makes it possible to detect, plot, and distinguish between sparking, arcing, and partial discharge – even such things as bearing housings, couplings, guards, etcetera. In this presentation, we will discuss the basics of how the Spark-EDD device works, some of its broad applications, and case studies showcasing some exciting capabilities of Spark-EDD.

Peter Hopkins

United Infrared

Bonsall, CA 92003

Ph: 888-722-6447

Web: www.unitedinfrared.com
Email: peter@unitedinfrared.com

Art and Science of Locating Moisture with Thermal Imaging

Abstract:

Water is one of the most destructive elements in a building and often one of the most difficult problems to identify when it comes to locating its origin. My company has been chasing water for many years now and it is with a thermal imaging camera that has allowed me to expand my business opportunity by seeing the unseen. Thermal imaging is a very effective technology for the mapping of moisture paths and is done in a completely non-destructive manner. Thermal imaging provides immediate visual results which can often expose the actual source. It is our goal with this presentation to help you see some of the ways our company has helped many clients with answers to their mystery leaks.

Alan M. Ross

CRL and Jim Hardy, Vice President of Reliability Republic Steel
Presented by: Traci N. Hopkins, CRL

EPRA – Electric Power Reliability Alliance
Stow, Ohio

Ph: 330-571-9283

Web: www.myepra.com
Email: traci.hopkins@myepra.com

Culture Change: Implementing Power System Reliability in Industrial and Commercial Applications

Abstract:

The most difficult part when implementing a reliability program is the culture change required; from basic testing with no centralized maintenance strategy or database to a cross-functional reliability program. We will present the unique barriers that must be overcome to move from an unreliable power system to a reliable power system in both industrial and commercial applications. Utilizing case examples from metals processing, mining, paper, plastic, and pipelines to medical and data centers, we will reveal the common barriers we face that are unique to power system reliability.

The main barriers are identified as:

  • Lack of organizational recognition of the risks associated with unreliability
  • Lack of common standards for testing and data management
  • Inconsistent or inadequate maintenance practices for electrical equipment
  • Poor use of contractors based solely on cost
  • Reliance on “fix” versus prevent cultures
  • From Boomers to Millennials: A changing workforce
  • “TITWWHADI” culture (That is The Way We Have Always Done It)
  • Data chaos from the IIot versus UIot (Useful Internet of Things) unique to the power system

Once a power system is viewed through the lens of these barriers to reliability, it is clear that we need more than a program of the day but a complete culture change. We will present a proven process for creating a reliable power system.

Ed Kochanek

US Director of Sales – Condition Monitoring
Teledyne / FLIR

Nashua, NH

Ph: 609-932-8795

Web: www.teledyneflir.com
Email: ed.kochanek@teledyneflir.com

Fixed Thermal Imagers

Abstract:

Did you know that using a fixed thermal camera has never been easier? The temperature data that come from these cameras can be shared easily across multiple platforms and third party software. This presentation will detail the numerous new applications and the software platforms with which you can now use a fixed thermal camera.

Adrian Messer

Manager of US Operations
UE Systems, Inc.

Ph: 864-224-4517
Cell: 914-282-3504

Web: www.uesystems.com
Email: adrianm@uesystems.com

5 Ways to Reduce Energy Waste Using Ultrasound Technology

Abstract:

Did you know that an energy efficient facility can be directly linked to its reliability and success? Are you aware of how important it is to consistently report and document results to generate awareness and effectively reduce your energy usage? What about how important it is to be proactive instead of reactive to prevent problems from happening in the first place? Common sense will have you answer these questions with, “Yes,” but the way you run your facility could be suggesting otherwise. This presentation will convey 5 easy ways to reduce plant energy waste and inefficiencies using ultrasound technology, and demonstrate the return on investment (ROI) savings with each application.

Craig Nelson

CESW, CESCP
JM Test Systems, Inc.

2001 Bates Drive, Suite 320
Waxahachie, TX 75167

Ph: 225-925-2029 x3122

Web: www.jmtest.com
Email: craignelson@jmtest.com

The Importance of Risk Assessment and Risk Control in the Workplace

Abstract:

Included in the NFPA 70E Electrical Safety Standard are requirements for Risk Assessment and Risk Control. While this standard is focused on electrical safety, the concepts contained in it adapt well to the workplace in general. A primary objective is to determine if the risk justifies doing a task at all. This requires correctly and accurately identifying and evaluating the hazards and risks. Once done, risk control methods are implemented to reduce risks to acceptable level. This process must be part of every job planning process and included in every job briefing, and becomes a part of every company’s workplace culture.

Arturo Nunez

Senior Manager Asset Monitoring
Mistras Group, Inc.

195 Clarksville Road
Princeton Junction, NJ 08550
Ph: 609-716-4162

www.mistrasgroup.com
email: arturo.nunez@mistrasgroup.com

Web Application for Asset Monitoring Using Acoustic Emission

Abstract:

This presentation shows some examples of remote monitoring of assets using acoustic emission, considerations for communications and data transfer from the monitoring system to a secure server periodically and automatically, the need to check the integrity of the hardware continuously and provide automatic notifications when a hardware issue occurs. This presentation shows some of the processes used to implement cloud monitoring solutions, provide visualization tools that provide useful and timely information for the end user and that can assist with the visualization of increasing damage over time. The use of data analytics and machine learning tools to expedite the analysis process and identify abnormal data patterns is also discussed.

John W. Pratten III

President
Proactive Maintenance Consultants, LLC

Eden Prairie, MN 55346

Ph: 612-554-2664

www.pmcmn.com
Email: jwp@pmcmn.com

Pre and Post Activity Recommended for a Good Thermal Inspection

Abstract:

This presentation will discuss a few ideas of things to consider when preparing for a thermal inspection whether the inspection is being conducted down the street or halfway across the country. Once the thermal inspection is complete, we will offer a few suggestions in processing the information and discuss the importance of a quality report.

This presentation will provide an overview of image fusion along with its benefits and several examples of how it can be used to enhance the quality of one’s infrared inspection reports while reducing report writing time.

Martin Robinson

IRISS
10306 Technology Terrace

Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211

Ph: 941-907-9128

Web: www.iriss.com
Email: mrobinson@iriss.com

Designing an Ecosystem of Safety and Reliability

Abstract:

The critical importance of electrical power to every aspect of our world cannot be exaggerated. It must be generated and distributed effectively to end-users, and any disruption in that process means loss of operations, money, and in extreme cases, life. Therefore, the reliability of electrical power creation and distribution must be continually safeguarded and improved.

Adopting a "Monitor, Inspect, and Manage" approach is a proactive way to create an ecosystem of safety and reliability by maximizing the value of workforce time and skill by applying condition-based reliability technologies to maximize workforce skills and availability. These reliability technologies and electrical safety maintenance devices can be specified at the initial design/build stage or retrofitted into existing equipment through a simple and inexpensive process.

Carl Schultz

Director Solutions Engineering
ICI Infrared Cameras

Orlando, FL

Ph: 409-861-0788

Web: www.infraredcameras.com
Email: support@infraredcameras.com

ICI Introduces the Use of Thermal Technologies in a Cloud Architecture

Abstract:

ICI has developed one of the most innovative solutions within Infrared Technology since its introduction within the industrial and commercial sectors of business operations. The acceptance and use of thermography as a condition monitoring, predictive maintenance tool and for medical or febrile screening is significant. There are literally millions of individuals who utilize the technology daily as a tool within their facilities. Millions more have been exposed to thermography as a health screening tool over the last 2 years.

Now imagine the capability of collecting all that data, every second, minute, hour, and day, you get the picture. MASSIVE amounts of data in multiple formats that can provide a multitude of analysis and analytics capabilities. Infrared Cameras, Inc. (ICI) will be discussing Cloud Platform Architecture for Thermography. This is a brave new world never seen in the industry. Utilization of AI, IIOT and various other computational methodologies will be brought to bear so we as an industry can take our technology to the next natural level of its evolution and use.

Ed Spence

Managing Director
The Machine Instrumentation Group

535 Washington Street
Dedham, MA 02026

Ph: 781-439-1277

Web: www.machineinstrumentation.com
Email: ed.spence@machineinstrumentation.com

IoT for Condition Monitoring – Clearing Up Some of the Mystery

Abstract:

The Predictive Maintenance landscape has experienced an explosion of complexity in the last 10 years. IIoT, AI and machine learning, MEMS sensor technology, more sophisticated vibration signal processing and data engineering, and edge processing all present the maintenance professional with both challenges and opportunities. IoT offers the promise of improving your asset uptime while saving you more of your most precious resource – your time. But it’s not easy to sort through all the hype, promises and complexity. This presentation will help you better understand some of the features and functions of wireless systems for Condition Monitoring, and some of the things to think about when considering a system to test, pilot or deploy.

Gregory R. Stockton

President
Stockton Infrared

8472 Adams Farm Road
Randleman, NC 27317

Ph: 800-248-SCAN (7226)

www.StocktonInfrared.com
Email: greg@stocktoninfrared.com

Using Thermal Infrared Imaging to Monitor Underground Piping in District Heating and Cooling Systems

Abstract:

Supply steam and condensate return lines, hot water lines, chilled water lines, supply water mains, storm water drains, and sewer lines can be monitored for leaks and/or faulty insulation by cleverly using thermal infrared (IR) thermal imaging. Surveys of distribution piping systems provide actionable data of faults for asset management, predictive maintenance and planning purposes, with the benefit being improved reliability and reduced energy usage. Methodologies, techniques and equipment needed to be successful will be discussed during this interesting presentation.

Howard Vics

Northeast Thermography Medical Imaging

Clifton Park, NY

Ph: 518-983-6564

Web: www.medthermography.com
Email: info@medthermography.com

Before Things Break Down, They Get Hot

Abstract:

When you put anything under stress, its temperature increases. Thermography allows us to see, as a visual image, the differences in temperature across the surface of an object. Medical Thermography maps the thermal patterns of the human body, allowing us to identify inflammation and the body's inflammatory response.

Thermography is an elegant, safe and effective way to "read" the body and the story it is telling. Ultimately, the value of a trained and experienced thermographer is in their ability to identify and interpret thermal patterns. This is true whether you are looking at houses, the hull of a boat, the hooves of a horse, an electrical panel box or the skin of a human being.

This presentation will discuss how medical thermography is being used as a health discovery tool, as an adjunctive tool in medical diagnostics, and how it is used as a component of proactive health management. Presented will be examples of the thermal patterns associated with various conditions, including (but not limited to): stroke risk, reduced cardiac function, toxin build up, liver stress, endocrine and adrenal system stress, digestive system issues, musculoskeletal imbalance, and breast disease.

Brent A. Warwick and Larry Stratton

EXSERO Software, Inc.

4010 255th Place SE
Issaquah, WA 98029

Ph: 253-709-5452

Email: brent.warwick@exserosoft.com / larry.stratton@exserosoft.com
Web: www.exserosoft.com

Proven IR Inspection Software That Will Never Get Old

Abstract:

Exsero Software will present Aspect, its electrical/mechanical systems infrared inspection software. Aspect utilizes the latest Microsoft Windows technologies enabling thermographers to enter inspection data quickly and easily into a laptop computer on-site during the IR inspection and generate standards-compliant reports within minutes of completing the inspection.

Aspect has been developed with groundbreaking features and functionality and has been architected with input from both Level III Thermographers and experienced 01-Journeymen electricians. This development approach is enabling thermographers to double, even triple the number of inspection points completed in a day and can also reduce the post processing/report writing time to just a few minutes.

Kelly Watt

CEO
Visual Plan Inc.

506 Second Avenue
Seattle, WA 98104

Ph: 206-202-4220

Web: www.visualplan.net
Email: kelly@visualplan.net

Beyond Detection and Diagnosis of Asset Defects on Remote Critical Infrastructure Sites

Abstract:

Learn how Digital Twins are being used on Condition Assessments, Compliance Inspections, for LDAR, Asset Management and Capital Planning for Critical Infrastructure. Digital Twins offer a unique way to communicate findings, collaborate on root cause and remediation efforts while having an intimate, accurate and current knowledge of assets, asset attribute information and their environment.

In this session, you will learn about new photogrammetry methods to quickly create 3D digital twins and geo-locate thermal imagery findings from handheld thermal imagers and drone mounted capture thermal imagers. Having access to complete asset attribution next to inspection findings helps with planning and remediation efforts.

Topics:

  1. What is a Digital Twin
  2. Integrating Ground and Arial Data to a Digital Twin
  3. Case Examples
    1. Municipal MEP Condition Assessment 
    2. O/G LDAR & Natural Gas Sites
    3. O/G Tank Integrity Inspections
    4. Power Electrical Substation Inspections
  4. Value on working with Digital Twins and Thermal Imaging

Cary M. Weaver

SSGB, CMRP, CPI, IR LIII, LI UE
Infrared Audit LLC

27658 Playa Del Rey Lane
Bonita Springs, FL 34135

Ph: 330-224-1457

Web: www.infraredaudit.com
Email: infraredaudit@gmail.com

Setting Transmissivity

Abstract:

Infrared transmissive windows (IR windows) have become increasingly common in thermography. IR windows are frequently found on electrical switchgear enclosures. When used to temporarily protect one's thermal imager from dirt and moisture, polyethylene plastic serves as an IR window. In order to ensure temperature measurement accuracy, the transmittance of an IR window must be known and entered into the thermal imager's computer. Failure to do so can result in significant temperature measurement error. This presentation will cover the topic of transmittance and describe a simple method for accurately determining the transmittance of any IR window.

George Williams

CEO
Reliability X, The DNA of Success!

4926 Abbey Road
Coplay, PA 18037

Ph: 877-752-5899

Web: www.reliabilityx.com
Email: george.williams@reliabilityx.com

Incorporating PdM Technologies Into Equipment Maintenance Strategies

Abstract:

This presentation will discuss the incorporation of PdM technologies into maintenance strategies. We will follow two paths in the discussion. First, we will discuss how to identify predictive tools to address failure modes when using methods such as FMEA or RCM. Second, we will discuss how to incorporate PdM technologies in a facility which has not utilized these methodologies. Additionally, we will cover best practices for removing tasks now address by PdM technologies, how to incorporate outsourced data collection, and how to use CMMS functionality to create condition based PMs from collected PdM information.

Tony Yin

General Manager
FOTRIC

17250 Dallas Parkway
Dallas, TX 75248

Ph: 214-235-4544

www.fotric.com
email: tony@fotric.com

Innovation of Software for Fotric Thermal Cameras

Abstract:

As thermography has matured, thermal imaging software has become an invaluable tool. From process monitoring and control to image analysis and reporting, software is an integral component that has revolutionized thermography. Here at Fotric, we heed to our clients’ needs and relentlessly pursue improvement on our product’s performance. This presentation will cover how we are repsonding to customer requests through the introduction of a new, much more user-friendly, SDK-based software with infinite room for user-tailored adaptation and manipulation as well as an AI-based assistant software that will boost your efficiency up to 10 times in route-based inspections.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

  • Thermographers
  • Process Control Supervisors
  • Maintenance Managers
  • Loss Control Specialists
  • Reliability Engineers
  • P/PM and NDT Personnel
  • Manufacturers
  • Quality Assurance Inspectors
  • Home and Building Inspectors

How You Will Benefit

  • Continuing Education
  • Explore New Technologies
  • Network with Seasoned Experts
  • See Latest Hardware & Software
  • Share Ideas with Others
  • Discover New Applications & Techniques

Conference Co-sponsors