The Dynamic Duo: How Ultrasound & Infrared Help You Work Smarter
Maintenance teams are under more pressure than ever-tasked with achieving greater reliability, uptime, and efficiency, all while managing with fewer people, tighter budgets, and limited time. With no clear end to the skilled labor shortage, organizations must empower their teams with tools that deliver fast, actionable results. This presentation explores how ultrasound and infrared technologies work together as a powerful, complementary pair to help maintenance teams detect issues early, streamline inspections, and prioritize corrective actions. Whether it’s pinpointing leaks, identifying electrical faults, or improving lubrication practices, these solutions provide high-value insights with minimal time investment. Learn how adopting this dynamic duo can help your team do more with less—without compromising performance.
Amit Ashkenazi
Ofil Systems
Einstein 16 Street
Ness Ziona 7403620
Isreal
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.
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.
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
James Brady
Brady Infrared Inspections, Inc.
4253 SW High Meadow Avenue
Unit 201
Palm City, FL 34990
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.
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.
Mark Bringold
AVO Training Institute
4545 W Davis Street
Dallas, TX 75211
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.
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.
Rick Bueltel
Missouri River Energy Services
3724 W. Avera Dr.
Sioux Falls, SD 57109
Sioux Falls, SD 57109
Using Infrared to Keep Production Efficient
With today’s long lead times and high cost of repairs, it is imperative to perform an infrared scan of critical components at least once a year. Every year companies lose millions of dollars due to unexpected downtime. Infrared thermography is one of the most effective tools for predicting electrical failures before they happen. In my presentation, I will show real-world examples of what can occur when equipment is overlooked. An infrared scan isn’t just an expense-it’s an investment that pays for itself.
Kristin Burton
Med-Hot Infrared Imaging
5120 South Florida Avenue
Lakeland, FL 33813
Lakeland, FL 33813
What is Medical Thermography? - Discover the Future of Functional Imaging
Medical thermography is emerging as one of the most exciting advancements in functional health and integrative care. With the ability to visualize inflammation, circulatory patterns, and stress responses in real time safely, privately and without contact – Medical Thermography is changing the way practitioners evaluate physiological function. In this energizing session, you'll explore how this FDA-registered technology enhances health assessments, supports personalized care planning, and gives patients a visual roadmap of their wellness journey. Discover how top clinicians are using Medical Thermography to elevate their evaluations and improve patient engagement.
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.
Peter Hopkins
Greg Stockton
United Infrared, Inc.
8472 Adams Farm Road
Randleman, NC 27317
Randleman, NC 27317
IR Surveying of Buildings Using Infrared Thermography – A Myriad of Applications
There are four general types of buildings: Commercial, Industrial, Institutional and Residential. All types of buildings can be inspected using infrared thermography. This presentation covers many different applications for thermal imaging of buildings, such as:
- Heat Loss
- Missing Insulation
- Air Leaks
- Building Leaks and Moisture
- Termite Damage
- Roof Moisture
- Construction Defects
Spencer D Jackson
MIS, A Salas O'Brien Company
475 Fentress Blvd
Suite A
Daytona Beach FL 32114
Suite A
Daytona Beach FL 32114
Utilizing Infrared to Detect Early Signs of Roof Failure
Early detection of roof failure is critical for maintaining structural integrity, minimizing repair costs, and extending the service life of building envelopes. This presentation explores the application of infrared (IR) thermography as a non-invasive diagnostic tool to identify moisture intrusion, insulation deficiencies, and thermal bridging—key indicators of impending roof system failure. By analyzing thermal patterns and anomalies, infrared inspections can reveal hidden damage before it becomes visible or structurally compromising. This session will cover the science behind infrared imaging, case studies demonstrating real-world applications, and best practices for integrating IR technology into preventative maintenance programs. Attendees will gain insight into how this innovative approach supports proactive asset management and informed decision-making in both commercial and residential roofing environments.
We will also cover potential next steps in the investigation and repair phase once failures have been identified.
We will also cover potential next steps in the investigation and repair phase once failures have been identified.
Ed Kochanek
Teledyne Flir
27700 SW Parkway Avenue
Wilsonville, OR 97070-8238
Wilsonville, OR 97070-8238
The Future of Infrared and how Apps are helping us increase reliability and safety in our plant.
- Smartphone and tablets are now commonplace, replacing greater than 96% of mobile phones because the Apps created for these edge devices solve problems for users or create new opportunities to engage with the world. Even in the traditionally conservative maintenance world, apps have enabled new ways of working and communicating within our organizations, supporting inexperienced workers to make safer, smarter decisions while reducing operational costs.
- Thermography apps have been available for iOS and Android devices for over a decade and have been employed to support inspections in general manufacturing, aerospace, building diagnostics, disaster restoration, and many other uses cases.
- Asset management apps are now a required part of virtually all CMMS software platforms. Using asset-hierarchy as a foundational element, apps have the potential to revolutionize thermography inspections.
- This session is focused on the potential to leverage apps to address a variety of common maintenance organization challenges, with an emphasis on thermography app development.
Austin Lemons
Amentum Commercial Operations, Inc.
4800 Westfields Blvd
Chantilly, VA 20151
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.
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.
Adrian Messer
: SDT Ultrasound Solutions, a Division of SDT North America Inc.
203 Commerce Blvd
Anderson, SC
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.
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.
Craig Nelson
JM Test Systems, LLC
334 Pebblebrook Drive
DeSoto, TX 75115-1910
DeSoto, TX 75115-1910
Electrical Safety Qualifications for Performing Thermography Inspections on Energized Electrical Equipment
OSHA regulations and NFPA safety standards do not specify qualifications for performing thermographic surveys of electrical equipment. Instead, they refer to qualifications for working on or in the vicinity of electrical equipment operating at 50 volts to ground or higher as well as equipment operating at lower voltages. What is required depends very heavily upon the conditions under which the thermography is performed and what precautions are required based upon exposure to shock and arc flash hazards. Included is the decision-making process for determining what personal protective equipment (PPE) may or may not be required to perform the work safely.
Stephen Oliver
Monroe Infrared
1520 Gypsy Court
Colorado Springs, CO 80906
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.
Forrest Pardue
Sheila Kennedy
24/7 Systems, Inc
1717 Base Pointe Way
Louisville, TN 37777
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.
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.
Way Parkes, P.E.
Jeffrey Froelich, B.Eng, MT, ASP
Global Risk Consultants Corp
10 Woodbridge Center Drive
Suite #700
Woodbridge, NJ USA 07095
Suite #700
Woodbridge, NJ USA 07095
Arc Flash Studies Unplugged: A Tactical Understanding
This presentation will provide attendees with a professional overview of the key components and methodologies involved in conducting a comprehensive power system study focusing on arc flash risk assessments. Emphasis will be placed on the following:
- Input data required for a successful assessment, including but not limited to, the following: voltage, X/R ratio, overcurrent protection device types and settings, cable sizes and lengths, utility fault current, transformers, generator, and motor contribution data.
- Participants will gain an understanding of how short circuit, protective device coordination, and arc- flash incident energy calculation studies are performed and the deliverables that should be included in the report.
- These studies are used to determine the short circuit withstanding ratings of the electrical equipment. These studies are also used to analyze the overcurrent protective devices and to ensure that they are selective. A fully selective system will ensure that the overcurrent devices are properly set to isolate faults without interrupting the entire system.
- The session will provide a general overview of arc flash assessments, PPE requirements and selections, along with the applicable standards such as IEEE1584, NFPA70, NFPA 70E and OSHA.
- The importance of accurate one-line diagrams and arc flash labeling in supporting electrical safety programs will be discussed.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify essential data required for power system studies.
- Understand basic methodologies for short circuit and protective device coordination analysis.
- Evaluate arc flash risk assessments and label application for compliance and worker safety.
- Provide some examples of arc-flash calculations focusing on the importance of tripping time and feeder lengths.
Maximizing Productivity in Thermographic Inspections through Workflow Optimization
Optimizing Workflow for Large-Scale Thermographic Inspections
In the realm of thermographic inspections, the efficient organization of images and data is paramount to ensuring accuracy and productivity. This presentation explores methodologies for structuring and managing extensive inspection data and emphasizing the importance of an optimized workflow. By leveraging advanced software solutions, we propose a streamlined approach to handle large-scale thermographic inspections.
These tools provide robust capabilities for image analysis and reporting, enhancing data management by automating the identification and categorization of inspection sites. Together, they facilitate a cohesive workflow that minimizes manual intervention, reduces errors, and accelerates the inspection process.
Attendees will gain insights into best practices for data organization, learn how to integrate these software solutions into their inspection routines, and understand the benefits of a systematic approach to thermographic data management. This non-commercial presentation aims to equip professionals with the knowledge to enhance their inspection efficiency and accuracy through optimized workflows.
In the realm of thermographic inspections, the efficient organization of images and data is paramount to ensuring accuracy and productivity. This presentation explores methodologies for structuring and managing extensive inspection data and emphasizing the importance of an optimized workflow. By leveraging advanced software solutions, we propose a streamlined approach to handle large-scale thermographic inspections.
These tools provide robust capabilities for image analysis and reporting, enhancing data management by automating the identification and categorization of inspection sites. Together, they facilitate a cohesive workflow that minimizes manual intervention, reduces errors, and accelerates the inspection process.
Attendees will gain insights into best practices for data organization, learn how to integrate these software solutions into their inspection routines, and understand the benefits of a systematic approach to thermographic data management. This non-commercial presentation aims to equip professionals with the knowledge to enhance their inspection efficiency and accuracy through optimized workflows.
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.
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.
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?
Robert J. Sayer, PE
The Vibration Institute
1801 N Mill St
Suite A
Naperville, IL 60563
Suite A
Naperville, IL 60563
Vibration Analysis: An Integral Piece of the Total Reliability Concept
This presentation will include the main reasons for performing vibration analysis as part of a reliability program including fatigue analysis and evaluation of critical components. The basic levels of vibration analysis will be discussed including:
- Initial evaluation of alarms produced by a continuous monitoring program and/or control room data.
- Time waveform and frequency spectral analysis to identify probable sources of vibration and determine severity.
- Natural frequency testing to evaluate probable resonance problems.
- Advanced analysis techniques including operating deflection shape (ODS), experimental modal analysis (EMA) and vibration video amplification (VVA).
Andrew Starnes
Insight Training, LLC
205 Belvedere Avenue
Shelby, NC 28150
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.
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.
