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609.239.4788

IR/INFO 2026

Orlando, Florida
February 1-4, 2026

Infrared Conference and Infrared Training

LEARNING SESSIONS & SHORT COURSES

Speakers

John Archer
Amit Ashkenazi
Ofil Systems
Einstein 16 Street
Ness Ziona 7403620
Isreal

Dual-Technology Inspections: The Power of UV and IR for Electrical Infrastructure Reliability

The combined use of ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) technologies has become a powerful approach for the inspection and maintenance of electrical utilities, particularly in overhead lines and substations. Each method provides unique and complementary information: IR imaging detects thermal anomalies caused by resistive heating, such as loose connections or overloaded components, while UV imaging identifies corona discharges related to insulation degradation and high electric field stress.

Relying on only one technology can leave critical defects undetected: for example, early- stage corona activity often occurs without significant heating and would not appear in infrared inspections, while resistive faults may generate heat but no corona. By applying both UV and IR inspections, utilities gain a more comprehensive view of asset health, enabling earlier fault identification, targeted maintenance planning, and reduced risk of unexpected failures. This dual-technology approach strengthens predictive maintenance programs and supports the overall reliability and safety of electrical infrastructure. Case studies demonstrating the benefits of this dual-technology approach in real-world utility applications will be presented.
John Archer
Noah Bethel, CMRP
PdMA Corporation
5909-C Hampton Oaks Parkway
Tampa, FL 33610

Motor Efficiency…It’s Not Enough!

Efficiency is a word heavily used recently. Especially when talking about government. Efficiency by itself is not such a bad thing.  In fact, efficiency is used in every facet of our daily lives.  From driving to shopping to paying bills everyone is always looking to make the process more efficient.  Companies and facilities are no different.  When you are running an industrial manufacturing facility you must be focused on making that facility run as efficiently as possible or profits will be affected.  

PRESENTATION OUTLINE: 

  • Motor Reliability  
  • Motor Efficiency 
  • Technology Efficiency 
  • Resource Efficiency 
  • Conclusion   

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:  

  • Electric Motor Fault Zone Analysis Techniques 
  • Motor Efficiency Strategies 
  • Efficient Use of Technology  
  • Optimizing Resources for Efficiency 
John Archer
James Brady
Brady Infrared Inspections, Inc.
4253 SW High Meadow Avenue
Unit 201
Palm City, FL 34990

Verifying Thermal Anomalies Associated with Infrared Roof Moisture Surveys

Infrared roof moisture surveys are powerful tools for detecting potential moisture within roofing systems, but identifying thermal patterns is just the first step. To confirm whether these patterns actually indicate wet insulation, verification is essential.

Verification can occur during or after the infrared scan, but for any accurate survey, it's a non-negotiable step. Without it, the risk of false positives — or missed problems — rises significantly.

This presentation discusses both non-destructive and destructive methods used to verify thermal anomalies. Core samples, moisture meters, and capacitance testing are just a few of the techniques we apply, depending on the roof type and insulation system. We also share findings related to common insulation materials such as polyisocyanurate board, lightweight concrete, and spray polyurethane foam.

Most importantly, we highlight the limitations of infrared on certain roof systems — insights we've gained through hands-on verification. Knowing where infrared may fall short is key to accurate diagnostics and long-term performance.

Infrared surveys are valuable, but it’s verification that turns data into decisions.
John Archer
Mark Bringold
AVO Training Institute
4545 W Davis Street
Dallas, TX 75211

The Need for Proper IR Training for NFPA 70B compliance

As a thermographer for nearly 25 years and an Infrared instructor for over 19 years, at General Motors and AVO, I have seen how users believe thermography is a “point and shoot” technology, until they attend a class. Many attendees, after learning the theory, realize how important that is to getting good measurements.

Being an Electrical Safety Instructor, I have seen more students attending training classes to obtain their certification for their company to comply with an electrical maintenance program since NFPA 70B has become a standard.  Prior to being trained, it seems many companies believe purchasing an imager makes their workforce thermographers.

We will discuss infrared training and how essential it is to the reliable operation of any facilities’ planned maintenance program, and compliance to NFPA 70B. Being from a predictive background, I realize how important proper training is to obtain accurate information to pass on for equipment repair.

In section 9.2.2 NFPA 70B states all electrical equipment shall be checked with infrared, but also in 9.2.2.2 there is the allowance for deviation or alteration of the schedule if the equipment can be verified to not be a potential risk to personal or facility equipment if it fails. To have the deviation there must be a justification for the change that is documented in the Electrical Maintenance Program.
John Archer
Dr. Jeffrey Daniels
CBIONE
240 Grand Avenue
Vista, CA 92081

Field Service Employees’ Intent to Stay or Leave

Field service leaders are concerned with losing human capital as it requires the shifting or reallocating of economic and non-economic resources to maintain operations and financial goals. Participants included field personnel and leaders in the field service industry who completed questionnaires. The multiple linear regression analysis results indicated the model could significantly predict employee turnover intentions and general job satisfaction was the most significant contributor. A key recommendation is for field service leaders to implement goals around the mastery of a particular task, quarterly competitions around goal attainment, and regularly scheduled team meetings. The implications for positive social change include the potential to improve work–life balance, shift more time invested into the local community, and update models incorporating a multicultural workforce in the services sector.
John Archer
Austin Lemons
Amentum Commercial Operations, Inc.
4800 Westfields Blvd
Chantilly, VA 20151

Optimizing Predictive Maintenance Through Integrated Technologies

This presentation will explore the various facets of Predictive Maintenance (PdM) technologies and their practical applications across multiple industries. Key technologies to be examined include Vibration Analysis, Oil Analysis, Ultrasound, Infrared Thermography, and Motion Amplification.

The session will feature real-world examples of how these technologies are effectively integrated to enhance equipment reliability and operational efficiency. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the strengths and limitations of each method and how they complement one another in a comprehensive PdM strategy.

Additionally, the presentation will provide guidance on selecting the most appropriate technology — or combination of technologies — based on specific operational scenarios and asset conditions, helping practitioners make informed decisions to maximize maintenance outcomes.
John Archer
Adrian Messer
: SDT Ultrasound Solutions, a Division of SDT North America Inc.
203 Commerce Blvd
Anderson, SC

Beyond the Noise: Building an Effective Airborne & Structure-borne Ultrasound Condition Monitoring Program

Establishing a successful airborne and structure-borne ultrasound program requires more than just acquiring the right technology—it demands a structured approach to integration, training, execution, and continuous improvement. This presentation will guide attendees through the essential steps to build and sustain an effective ultrasound-based condition monitoring program, tailored to industrial environments. Topics will include selecting appropriate equipment, defining inspection routes and frequencies, training personnel, integrating with existing reliability strategies, and ensuring long-term program ownership and accountability.

To demonstrate real value, the presentation will also highlight key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics that reflect both equipment reliability and energy conservation gains. Attendees will learn how to track and leverage data such as reduced compressed air leak rates, improved mean time between failures (MTBF), corrective vs. preventive maintenance ratios, and verified steam trap or bearing defect detections. Real-world examples will show how organizations can turn ultrasound findings into actionable insights, improve asset performance, reduce energy costs, and align with broader reliability and sustainability goals.
John Archer
Stephen Oliver
Monroe Infrared
1520 Gypsy Court
Colorado Springs, CO 80906

NFPA 70B for Thermographers: What’s Changed and How to Lead the Change

NFPA 70B just raised the stakes for thermographers. What used to be a best practice is now the standard, and it’s reshaping how thermal inspections are done, documented, and sold.  In this session, we’ll look at what the new rules mean down from a thermographer’s point of view, how to talk to clients about compliance, and where the biggest opportunities are for growth.  We will cover real-world examples, simple tools for staying compliant, and smart ways to stand out as a trusted expert in this new landscape. 

Here’s what you’ll take away: 

  • What NFPA 70B now requires from thermal inspections 
  • How to guide your clients through the changes with confidence 
  • Ways to team up with manufacturers and service providers to expand your reach 
  • What the Monroe-Guidant partnership means for the future of the field 
  • If you're in the thermal game, this is your moment to lead and not just follow the new rules, but use them to build a stronger business. 
John Archer
Forrest Pardue and Sheila Kennedy
24/7 Systems, Inc
1717 Base Pointe Way
Louisville, TN 37777

A Healthy Dose of Electrical Reliability

The facilities management department of a large hospital in the Eastern U.S. is charged with ensuring that all facilities are operational. As part of a wide-ranging infrastructure upgrade, the hospital’s manager of electrical systems chose to institute annual infrared (IR) scanning of all electrical panels in the facility and implement a centralized reliability information system with equipment bar coding.

The reliability information management system is used in the hospital’s annual IR inspections to assist with information integration, communication, and accountability. IR scanning is currently being used for monitoring many systems and continues to expand.

The hospital has found that each addition to the system will increase its value to the hospital, its service providers, and its employees and customers who depend on the facilities to be continuously and reliably operating.
John Archer
Mark Powell
Tremco, Inc
3735 Green Road
Beachwood, OH 44122

The Importance of Secondary Verification Using Non-Invasive Methods

In today’s roofing industry, accurate moisture diagnostics are critical for making informed decisions regarding restoration, maintenance, and capital project investments. This presentation will examine the value of incorporating secondary verification through non-invasive methods to complement traditional testing and improve diagnostic accuracy.

Topics will include the reduction of unnecessary core cuts through strategic use of diagnostic tools, thereby preserving roof integrity while maintaining confidence in survey results. A comparison of key technologies will be presented, including Nuclear Moisture Density Gauges and Capacitance Gauges along with practical guidance on their application, strengths, and limitations.

Attendees will learn best practices for correlating non-invasive data with core sampling, and how to maximize information gathered from Infrared Thermography by integrating nuclear and capacitance verification. Special attention will be given to understanding tool selection, licensing requirements, and regulatory considerations, helping professionals elevate the reliability of their diagnostic evaluations. Whether for warranty inspections, restoration candidate assessments, or proactive asset management, secondary verification remains an indispensable component of a comprehensive roofing diagnostic strategy.
John Archer
Tim Rohrer
Exiscan LLC
1645 Lyell Avenue
Suite 136
Rochester, NY 14606

IR Window Transmission Rates  —  Transmission Effects on Delta T Analysis

When using IR windows to perform routine thermographic inspections, thermographers need to consider the effects of Transmission rate of the IR optic when comparing the temperature data of two similar components (delta T analysis). Transmission and Emissivity compensation are very similar: Failure to properly compensate for either will lead to inaccurate data, which can lead to inaccurate conclusions, resulting in false positive or false negative reports. 

Topics explored will include: 

  • What are the various IR window optic materials? 
  • What are the Transmission characteristics of those materials and what are their implications of Transmission rates? 
  • What happens to Transmission characteristics as various optic materials age? 
John Archer
Andrew Starnes
Insight Training, LLC
205 Belvedere Avenue
Shelby, NC 28150

Fire Service Thermography: Firefighting Thermal Imaging Cameras vs Industrial Thermal Imaging Cameras

In the world of thermography, thermal imaging professionals use various models of thermal imaging cameras (quantitative and qualitative) with specific settings under in various specific context to identify problems for further inspection and repair. Thermography professionals can use SWIR, MWIR, OGI, LWIR, and other models of these devices in conjunction with other devices to identify these problems. These thermograms are then analyzed and a detailed report is completed with the recommendations.

Whereas, in he fire service, firefighters use LWIR qualitative thermal imaging cameras with very limited adjustable settings where the analysis to identify the problem must be done in seconds. In addition, firefighters do not have the luxury of controlling the variables such as FORD (focus, range, and distance), environment conditions, emissivity, and more. They must make these decisions quickly and then scan each room or environment that is the most unforgiving and challenging space to operate a thermal imaging camera in (low to zero visibility with various densities of smoke and moisture). And if they misinterpret the data, the consequences can be deadly.

Industrial thermography has made vast improvements in image quality, innovative features, and more. Whereas firefighting thermal imaging cameras were originally very large, expensive, and produced a poor image for the environment it functioned in.

In 2013, NFPA introduced the NFPA 1801 Standard for Thermal Imaging Cameras which provided improved recommendations on the specifications, design, and durability of firefighting thermal imaging cameras. Since that date, many improvements have been made in the consensus standards and the overall technology.

This presentation will cover these improvements and discuss the intersection of industrial thermography and fire service thermography. The presentation will invite user feedback on several topics including education, technology, and collaboration between both fields.
John Archer
Larry Stratton
Cascade Thermal Imagining, Inc. & EXSERO Software, Inc.
P.O. Box 2131
Redmond, WA 98073-2131

Infrared Inspections of Aircraft

For over forty years, thermal imaging has been used as a nondestructive test technique to detect latent moisture within aircraft composite materials. This application has grown considerably over the past twenty years due to the increased use of composites and the age of aircraft employing them. This presentation will cover infrared inspection techniques and the business opportunities for infrared inspection service providers looking to expand their service offerings in this unique and growing application.

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