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IR/INFO Conference
Proceedings 2023

List of articles contained in the IR/INFO 2023 Proceedings:

Daryl Androli
Senior Energy Services Technician

Missouri River Energy Services
3724 Avera Drive Sioux Falls, SD 57109

Ph: 605-388-4042
www.mrenergy.com
Email: daryl.androli@mrenergy.com

Using Infrared Imaging to Detect Deficiencies in Utility Distribution and Transmission

Abstract:

One of the important uses of infrared is the effective delivery of power to customer locations. If your customer doesn’t have power you don’t have revenue and a very unhappy business partner! From a generation facility to transmission lines to the utility and then on to the customer multiple opportunities exist to employ the use of infrared imaging. Detection of detect potential problems, avoid outages, and in fact increase customer appreciation are all excellent uses of your infrared expertise. Both a utility provided service specialist and independent thermographers can benefit by experiencing a view of potential problem areas, how to effectively image systems.

This presentation will cover examples of problems that could exist unseen by regular maintenance practices and supporting documentation using infrared imagery using both past and current examples.

Stefanie Arnold
Testo

Missouri River Energy Services
40 White Lake Road Sparta, NJ 07871

Ph: 800-227-0729
www.testo.com
Email: sarnold@testo.de

Testo Solutions for Thermography

Abstract:

Testo is a global manufacturer of thermal imagers based in Germany. Our mission is the development and manufacture of thermal imagers with outstanding image quality and unique features that make a thermographer’s daily work safe and easy.

In this presentation, I will explain why our methods of production calibration are critical to get the highest level of accurate and repeatable measurements out of our imagers. I will explain how this makes our thermal imagers reliable to support you in your daily work.

Will lead you to a Testo technology called SuperResolution. The SuperResolution addresses the variables of image formation such as: optics, detector and pixel size. Super Resolution allows us to enhance both image quality and temperature measurements

Furthermore, Testo will present SiteRecognition, a systematic process in predictive maintenance applications which helps you with automatic archiving and assignment of thermal images to measurement objects and assets. This reduces failures and eliminates tedious time sorting images in your file system.

We will also introduce the feature ScaleAssist which helps you to get comparable images with optimum contrast in building thermography. ScaleAssist allows all users of our imagers to get crisp, clear images. This allows you to quickly identify the real building problems.

Noah Bethel, CMRP
PdMA Corporation

5909-C Hampton Oaks Parkway
Tampa, FL 33610

Ph: 813-621-6463
www.pdma.com
Email: noah@pdma.com

PdMAEYE - CONTINUOUS MONITORING

Abstract:

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 test equipment. This presentation will explore each of these reasons and more to highlight the benefits of permanently installed electric motor testing technology.

Richard A. Bustamante, Substation PMA Advisor & Steven May, Jr., Predictive Maintenance Assessment Advisor
Southern California Edison
3 Innovation Way
Pomona, CA 91768

www.sce.com

Richard A. Bustamante
richard.a.bustamante@sce.com
909-695-9070

Steven May, Jr.
steven.may@sce.com
909-695-9107

Southern California’s Infrared Thermography Program

Abstract:

Southern California Edison’s Preventative Maintenance Assessment Program (PMA) covers 50,000 square miles and about 14 million residents. This includes about 1100 substations. We use a FLIR T1020 Thermal Imager in our inspection process to inspect primary conductors for hot connections with voltages of 2.4 KV to 500 KV. We also inspect secondary connections in circuit breakers, transformers, and relay buildings. We will give examples of high voltage hot connections on disconnect switches, circuit breakers, and transformers along with hot connections on CT rotos and secondary connections. Our program also inspects SF6 gas-filled equipment with a FLIR GF306 gas imaging camera to locate large and small leaks. We will show videos of leaks that we have located and will also review visual findings from our substation inspections.

Valentino P. DeRocili, Ph.D.
Level III Thermographer
Compliance Environmental, Inc

150 South Bradford Street
Dover, Delaware 19904

302-674-4427, x101

www.compliancecanhelp.com
vderocili@compliancecanhelp.com

Performing Acoustic Imaging to Enhance Infrared Inspections

Abstract:

The presentation will explore the use of acoustic imaging as a diagnostic tool used with infrared imagers to strengthen predictive maintenance programs. Examples from recently completed field inspections using acoustic imaging and infrared imagers will be presented to contrast the technologies for an understanding on how they can be used together.

Al Ezz Dekheila Steel Company (EZDK)
Moamen Moustafa Ahmed and Mahmoud Lotfy Mahmoud


Alexandria, Egypt
002-01226678110

www.ezzsteel.com
Email: moshehata@ezzsteel.com.eg

Applications for Thermography in Steel Manufacturing

Abstract:

EZDK is an Egyptian steel company consisting of more than 11 plants in along the Mediterranean Sea in north Africa which produce more than three million tons of rebar, rod, and flat steel annually. EZDK have been utilizing infrared thermography as part of our reliability system since 2007. This presentation will cover several examples of how we have successfully applied infrared thermography to our manufacturing process.

Mahmoud Lotfy
Email: mlotfy@Ezzsteel.com.eg
Mobile: 002-01007928705

Hartford Steam Boiler
The
Inspection and Insurance Company
Ronald (JR) Smith and Paul Boman


One State Street
P.O. Box 5024
Hartford, CT 06102-5024
785-256-7161

www.hsb.com
Ronald_Smith_Jr@hsb.com
Paul_Boman@hsb.com

Case study: Oil Analysis Identifies Issue and Infrared Confirms

Abstract:

Many times, a predictive maintenance tool can lead to additional testing from other methods to help identify a potential issue. Hartford Steam Boiler’s TOGA® Program analyzes fluids like lube oil, hydraulic and heat transfer fluids to help reduce unexpected equipment and production outages. Our case study is for a small hydro-generating power plant generator step-up transformer. The TOGA insulating fluid analysis reported an elevated temperature was in contact with the transformer’s insulating fluid, probably from a high resistance connection.

Insulating fluid analysis uses dissolved gas analysis (DGA) which is very similar to the equipment used in a medical laboratory. DGA identifies hydrocarbon gases that are generated by elevated temperatures and arcing from the insulating fluid which can be mineral oil, natural esters from plant-based fluids or silicone fluids. These temperatures are above the normal transformer operating temperatures which is below 110°C. These high resistance connections can be on bolted terminal connections, brazed conductor splices or on the electrical bushings. An infrared scan is another non-intrusive diagnostic method to help eliminate potential gassing sources like a bushing.

Electrical bushings have long manufacturing lead-times and may also require design work for getting the proper replacement bushing dimensions. When properly applied, infrared scanning is an accuracy and quick confirmation for a huge benefit to the equipment owner.

Influential Drones
Dave Krause and Steven Davis


8 E Stow Road - Suite 100
Marlton, NJ 08053
856-281-7545

www.influentialdrones.com
Email: steve@influentialdrones.com

Drones and Thermography – The Where, The When and How

Abstract:

Drones or sUAS are becoming more useful for technicians to help accomplish more difficult tasks in a quicker safer way. Over the past 5 years advances in aerial platform technology has led to a wider acceptance of drones as another tool to carry and use. But, there are rules and regulations governing operations defined by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

This two part session will go over navigating some of these rules from where you can fly, what to do if the FAA has restrictions, how to identify hazards and mitigate risk, as well as discuss equipment platforms, and where the industry moving towards in the future.

Paul Klimuc

SDT Ultrasound Solutions Inc.
7677 Country Road 2
Cobourg, Ontario K9A 0X4
Canada

905-377-1313
www. sdtultrasound.com
Email: hearmore@sdtultrasound.com

Stories from the Field: Combining Acoustic Imaging Cameras and Thermal Imaging Cameras for More Wins

Abstract:

Condition monitoring technicians are the appointed guardians of the physical assets that drive American manufacturing. But if they only rely on information from a single source then they miss out on detecting the defect symptoms that can lead to unexpected shutdowns. Therefore, we advocate for combining data from multiple technologies – such as infrared and ultrasound – to score as many wins as possible.

Ed Kochanek, US Director of Sales – Condition Monitoring
Teledyne FLIR


9 Townsend West
Nashua, NH 03063
609 932 8795

www.teledyneflir.com
Email: Ed.Kochanek@teledyneflir.com

What’s Really Important When Buying a Thermal Camera

Abstract:

Buying a thermal imager can be a daunting task for a seasoned thermographer; it can be especially difficult for the less experienced. Because the success of an infrared inspection program is dependent upon the chosen test equipment, it is imperative to select proper equipment. This presentation will discuss the importance of specifications, ergonomics, reporting software, and other factors you will need to consider when buying a camera. In 23 years in the thermal camera industry, I have seen it all and will give you the insight and questions you didn’t think to ask to make the right camera choice for you.

Adrian Messer, CMRP
Vice President, Executive Services

Progressive Reliability
6449 Southpoint Parkway
Jacksonville, Florida 32216

Cell: 864-314-9898
Email: Adrian.Messer@proreli.com
www.proreli.com

Reliable Hiring

Abstract:

It’s 2023, and along with everything else that’s going on in our world, you’re struggling to find the right maintenance & reliability talent. Don’t give up. The talent is there, it has just migrated elsewhere, and you have to know how to find it. By understanding the current state of the workforce and both trends in labor and trends in worker mentality and attitudes, it is possible to develop a strategy to find high quality and high value maintenance & reliability talent. Many times, it starts with analyzing and understanding the current culture within your own organization and striving to create a culture of reliability. This presentation will discuss both the current state of the workforce, and provide some direction on considerations for identifying, qualifying, and developing a more reliability focused workforce.

Craig F. Nelson, CESW, CESCP
JM Test Systems

7323 Tom Drive
Baton Rouge, LA 70806-2313

Ph: 214-316-6073

www.jmtest.com
craignelson@ jmtest.com

Keeping Your Distance: Determining Shock and Arc Flash Boundaries When Performing Thermography on Energized Electrical Equipment

Abstract:

Shock and arc flash are the electrical hazards addressed by the NFPA 70E electrical safety standard and relevant OSHA regulations. Among the safety considerations when performing thermography on electrical equipment are approach boundaries applicable to these hazards for the safety of both qualified and unqualified personnel. A thermographer must know how to identify these boundaries and when they apply, the qualifications necessary to cross them, the requirements for performing thermography in the presence of these hazards and the applicable PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) that may be required in the presence of both existing and potential shock and arc flash hazards.

Bob Pearson

InspectorPro
2600 West Executive Parkway - Suite 500
Leghi, UT 84043

bob@citadelus.com
www.InspectorProinsurance.com

Insurance Information for Thermographers

Abstract:

Securing business insurance for infrared inspection services can be a challenge due to the diverse number of applications and the risks associated with them. This presentation will cover the various aspects of insurance for thermographers along with various policy types, coverages, exclusions and endorsements. We will also discuss the need for contracts and the scope of your inspection. Lastly, we will cover safety issues and Workers Comp Insurance. Also provided will be guidance on how to read your policy and important considerations when you renew it.

Mark D. Powell
Tremco, Inc.

1424 Pebble Ridge Drive
Rochester, MI 48307
269-626-6007

www.tremcoinc.com
Email: mpowell@tremcoinc.com

Knowing the Variables for Roofing Diagnostics

Abstract:

It is widely known the huge impact Infrared imaging has had on the roofing industry. Being able to identify suspect wet insulation has changed how roofing maintenance and roof asset management is being performed. However, what is not understood by most building owners and even some thermographers is that performing a successful and accurate roofing scan can be one of the most challenging infrared inspections to perform. The key is knowing the variables that can impact an infrared inspection. This presentation will delve into those variables that affect the accuracy of an inspection and how to ensure a successful infrared inspection.

Fernando Rico
International Sales Manager
Fotric
17250 Dallas Parkway
Dallas, TX 75248
214-235-4544

www.fotric.com
Email: info@fotric.com

Techniques for Boosting Inspection Speed and Data Organization

Abstract:

Thermal imagers have been an integral part of routine inspection for a long time. Yet it remains just a tool to take thermal image. In this era of hyper interconnectivity, FOTRIC believes it should be more. It should facilitate everything an inspector would need on field. And we made it so, by NaviTiR.

The NaviTiR is an AI-infused digital upgrade system from the traditional thermal camera, including features like digitalized data management, automatic diagnosis, object identification, instant data synchronization and one-click report generation. It perfectly assists thermal inspectors on every link of their assignment, from preparation to presentation.

Josh Robinson
IRISS Inc.

10306 Technology Terrace
Bradenton, FL 34211
941-907-9128

www.iriss.com
Email: j.robinson@iriss.com

IR Inspection Windows – See What You’ve Been Missing

Abstract:

Infrared Inspection Windows allow a safer method of monitoring/inspecting critical electrical assets and should be adopted as part of a comprehensive Condition-Based Maintenance Program that focuses on both Safety and Reliability. With the proper procedures in place that take advantage of this technology, companies can monitor the health of their assets and schedule necessary maintenance before an unplanned event occurs, causing costly downtime and possible injury of fatality.

Key Takeaways

  1. IR window design and applications based on gear and environment
  2. Streamlining asset inspection programs
  3. Safety benefits of IR windows
  4. Business benefits of IR windows

Anthony Romano, President
DNA Digital Group LLC
2 Banbury Court
Robbinsville, NJ 08691

Tel: 609-439-3522
Email: aromano@dnadigitalgroup.com
www.dnadigitalgroup.com

Search Engine optimization (SEO) – The Holy Grail of Marketing for Your Business

Abstract:

Customers, potential customers and consumers in general navigate the world through search. Will they find your business in their search results? From desktops, laptops, smartphones, tablets, Xboxes, Nintendo Switches, PlayStations, Kindles and more, they search the worldwide web for the products and services they need. By understanding and leveraging the fundamentals of search engine optimization (SEO), you can ensure that your business pops up in these all-important search results. Join us as we dive into the ins and outs of this revolutionary marketing opportunity for your business.

We will review:

  • The definition of SEO
  • The goals of search engines
  • Relevance and authority
  • How to read SEO result pages
  • How SEO affects your business
  • Search intent
  • SEO Strategy

Chase Sasser, CMRP
UE Systems, Inc.

14 Hayes Street
Elmsford, NY 10523

www.uesystems.com
Email: chases@uesystems.com

Enhancing Electrical Safety with Ultrasound

Abstract:

The use of ultrasound technology in conducting electrical equipment inspections has quickly become the standard for many organizations. Advances in the technology offer a whole new level of sophistication when it comes to scaling up internal reliability and electrical safety efforts. This presentation will explore the use of Ultrasound in managing industrial electrical safety, along with offering some commentary on why investing in this area is critical. This presentation will also discuss what ultrasound technology is and how it is used to inspect electrical equipment such as transformers, switchgear, and substations. We’ll share case study examples using spectrum analysis of recorded ultrasounds and images and will discuss to how to properly diagnose exactly what is happening.

Greg Stockton
Stockton Thermographic Services, Inc.

8472 Adams Farm Road
Randleman, NC 27317

Ph: (336) 498-4734

www.stocktoninfrared.com
greg@stocktoninfrared.com

Using Infrared Thermal 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 in energy usage. Methodologies, techniques and equipment needed to be successful will be discussed during this interesting presentation.

Larry Stratton, President
Brett Warwick, Vice President

EXSERO Software, Inc.

P.O. Box 2672
Redmond, WA 98073
206-514-6749

www.exserosoft.com
Email: larry.stratton@exserosoft.com

Reducing Infrared Report Writing Time

Abstract:

One of the biggest challenges for thermographers is the report writing process. It is time consuming, complicated, and takes you out of the field, sometimes for days. And this time consumption is The Killer of Profitability.

During this presentation, a Level III Certified Infrared Thermographer with 17 years of experience in IR inspections of commercial and industrial electrical systems will be showing you how today’s technology has refined the IR inspection and report generating process.

Now you can enter your data into a laptop or tablet on site with ease and generate professional, standards- compliant, accurate reports in minutes -- reducing your report generating time by 95% and eliminating your stress level by 100%.

You can also dispense with tedious, repetitive template construction and look forward to importing images and generating IR reports, not dreading the process.

Wayne Swirnow
Infraspection Institute Master Thermographer

Albany, NY
wswirnow@gmail.com

845-502-2427

Thermal Imaging to Determine the Location of Radiant Heating Lines in Concrete Substrates

Abstract:

Radiant heating lines imbedded into or below a substrate must be precisely located prior to drilling into the floor. Ambient air temperature, substrate thickness and temperature, system response time, conductive heat spread and floor composition are all contributing factors in determining the ease or difficulty in locating the lines. These factors will also determine the thermographer’s ability to achieve a high degree of accuracy. This presentation documents a real world application of the issues encountered during the location and mark out of radiant heating lines in a thick concrete floor prior to drilling mounting holes for securing mechanical equipment.

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