Infrared imaging technology has many applications

7 May 2003 Test & Measurement

A new product available from Spescom MeasureGraph, an infrared longwave still camera, uses infrared imaging technology to identify heat-related problems. The IR SnapShot camera from Infrared Solutions is a precision, portable uncooled thermoelectric infrared imaging radiometer. The thermoelectric sensor is inherently radiometric and is said to exhibit excellent dynamic range.

Infrared radiation is electromagnetic radiation whose wavelengths are greater than those of visible light but shorter than those of microwaves. In its most familiar form it is radiated heat that can be sensed by our skin, yet cannot be seen. All objects, whatever their temperature, emit infrared radiation. The intensity emitted depends upon the fourth power of the absolute temperature of the object. It also depends upon a material property of the object, termed 'emissivity'. An ideal infrared emitter, (said to be a 'blackbody') has an emissivity of unity. Most real objects have emissivities less than unity, and therefore emit less intense infrared radiation than a blackbody at the same temperature.

In summary, the infrared emitting properties of an object are characterised by its temperature and its emissivity. The following are some applications where this technique can be used:

* Electrical inspection: electrical connections become hot owing to overload or high resistance caused by corrosion or a poor connection.

* Condition monitoring: industrial pumps are known to work continuously for many hours. If a pump stops working or starts to wear, an infrared camera that monitors the temperature of these pumps can spot troubled pumps before the failure.

* Process monitoring: many processes require careful monitoring of process temperatures to maximise yields and minimise scrap.

* Preventive and predictive maintenance: eg, temperatures of bearings and other moving components can be monitored for gradual changes.

* Understanding heat flow for R&D.

* Substation maintenance: IR imagery allows monitoring of failing insulators or powerlines.

* Roofing inspection for water saturation.

For more information contact Trevor Leong, Spescom MeasureGraph, 011 266 1572, [email protected]

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