What Is Thermal Imaging?

Thermal imaging equipment does not see through objects, like an X-ray camera, but rather detects varying levels of heat based on the infrared waves emitted by the objects. Professional thermal imaging cameras can see subtle differences in temperature to create a detailed image of hot and cold areas with accurate temperature measurements. Differences in temperature can be used to pinpoint potential problems in malfunctioning equipment and in systems that have been installed improperly.

What Industries Use Thermal Imaging for Maintenance?

The benefit is that thermal scans do not require equipment to be shut down to be inspected.  The trained operator can quickly inspect and document faults and determine when repairs should be scheduled.

Safety is another reason that thermal cameras have become a regular tool for maintenance teams. Technicians do not have to be close to the machinery being tested as the photo can be taken from a distance, keeping techs safe while still acquiring the needed information.

Industrial Maintenance

Manufacturing companies often operate 24 hours a day, and taking equipment off-line to run any type of maintenance can cost businesses extremely valuable time. Reliability is enhanced when thermal imaging is part of an asset inspection and condition-based maintenance program (CBM). Downtime and maintenance expenses can both be reduced with a CBM program since maintenance only occurs when it's needed, rather than on a set schedule. Thermal imaging allows excessive heat in electrical, mechanical, and process equipment to be detected early in the failure curve. This minimizes the risk of a catastrophic failure, business interruption, and potentially dangerous conditions.

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