Thermography is a system of infrared imaging using a thermal camera. Thermal cameras are instruments that create pictures of heat rather than light. They measure infrared (IR) energy and convert the data to corresponding images of temperature. No visible light is captured with the infrared sensor of a thermal camera. These images can be used to identify a multitude of building and equipment failures.
Most commercial and industrial buildings have low slope roofs consisting of a structural deck, insulation, and a waterproofing membrane. If the roof system is damaged, moisture can enter beneath the membrane and migrate through the insulation. The resulting heat stored (capacitance) in the wet area of the system can be seen by a thermal imaging camera.
A complete and periodic inspection utilizing infrared technology can assist in identifying deficiencies in building envelope, electrical components and systems, and mechanical equipment. Focused repairs can then be completed for any deficient components, reducing business downtime and keeping production at proper capacity.
Infrared technology can assist in determining degradation of electrical components and equipment. Once identified, the materials and components can be replaced or repairs preventing more extensive damage or fires. This technology can literally save lives.
Additionally, insurance companies are beginning to require infrared inspections of commercial properties to help lesson the risk of fire and business interruption costs.
“Everywhere an electrical connection is made, there is the potential for a fault to develop. A poor connection will generate heat, which will cause further deterioration of the connection. This cycle will continue until the connection fails, resulting in damage to the equipment or even fire. Thermal imaging can detect these problems in the early stages to enable a simple and cheap repair to be made before the component fails.”
Zurich Insurance
“Infrared thermography uses specialized equipment to detect and visualize infrared wavelengths emitted by heat. When used for scanning electrical distribution equipment, thermography can proactively identify potential electrical deficiencies so they can be addressed before they result in catastrophic failure. For example, the hot spots identified by using a thermographic imager may indicate loose or worn connections, overloaded equipment, inadequate cooling or other deficiencies that warrant preventive maintenance. The following information highlights the benefits of thermographic surveys as a beneficial tool for predictive maintenance.
Advantages of Thermographic Inspections
While an infrared imager cannot locate mold, it can easily identify areas with excess moisture which can lead to mold and is required for its propogation. When water is present in building materials like walls and insulation, it cools through evaporation creating “cool” spots on the surfaces and can be detected with the thermal imager. Once detected it can be removed, preventing the spread of mold.