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IRINFO.ORG is a content-based web resource and on-line community dedicated to professionally promoting infrared thermography and related PPM, PdM and NDT technologies. Through our Articles and Tips, we offer timely, accurate information that is updated several times each week. Our Directories of IR Manufacturers and Infrared Thermographers list resources unmatched anywhere in the world.
2/03/2012 3:00 PM
IR/INFO 2012 a Resounding Success!
Infraspection Institute s IR/INFO conference was recently held in New Orleans, Louisiana. IR/INFO 2012 marks the 23rd anniversary for the advanced training conference, technical symposium and technology expo.
01/30/2012 10:00AM
Tempersture Differentials for Infrared Building Inspections - Part 1
A common question among thermographers is, How much temperature differential is needed to obtain good data? In this two-part Tip, we discuss required temperature differentials for infrared inspections of buildings.
01/23/2012 3:30PM
Negative Findings Versus No Problems
When documenting an infrared inspection with no detectable exceptions, thermographers should be aware that there is a big difference between reporting no problems versus negative findings .
01/16/2012 2:30PM
Frostbite & Hypothermia
Jack Frost nipping at your nose. These lyrics from a popular Christmas carol evoke romantic visions of winter; however, frostbite and hypothermia are dangerous medical conditions that can present serious safety hazards.
01/09/2012 2:30PM
Cold Weather Clothing
Cold weather clothing is a matter of functionality not fashion. Clothing needs to be worn in layers in order to trap air which is warmed by the body.
01/02/2012 11:00PM
Infrared Images with Quantified Electrical Load & Moisture Data Damage Data Combined
Thermal imagers have long been used to detect evidence of problems within a wide variety of systems and structures including electrical distribution systems and building envelopes. In order to fully quantify the severity of problems other information is often critical such as electrical load data and moisture levels.
01/02/2012 10:30AM
Infrared Inspections of Dry-type Transformers
A thorough infrared inspection of an electrical transformer can point out symptoms of loose connections as well as other possible problems.
12/26/2011 1:00PM
Make a New Year's Resolution for Safety
With the New Year upon us, many of us will follow the tradition of resolving to change or better ourselves. With this Tip, we offer suggestions for making job safety a priority.
12/19/2011 3:00PM
Holiday Wishes
It is hard to believe that another year has passed and the holiday season is once again upon us. With this Tip, we invite our readers to share a favorite memory as we celebrate the season.
12/12/2011 12:30PM
Monochrome or Multi-Color?
With most thermal imagers capable of displaying images in monochrome or multicolor, many new thermographers ask which color palette is the best choice for effective imaging.
12/05/2011 10:00AM
Why Headers Appear Cool
In business, it is frequently said that cooler heads prevail. When performing infrared inspections of building interiors, window and door headers are often more prevalent.
12/01/2011 4:00 PM
US Navy Leading the Way in Switchboard Protection
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), an arc flash is defined as "a dangerous condition associated with the release of energy caused by an electric arc." An arc is a high-impedance discharge of electricity through the air that causes light and heat.
11/28/2011 2:30PM
Integration Clauses
Not all contracts are expressly stated. Some are implied by law based on the relationship of the parties, and some are implied in fact by the parties conduct.
11/21/2011 2:30PM
Thanksgiving Safety Tip
When it comes to heat transfer and safety, thermographers traditionally think of the workplace. With the Thanksgiving holiday upon us, neither of these topics should be overlooked when it comes to preparing the holiday feast.
11/14/2011 7:30PM
Infrared Inspection of Load Break Elbows
Load break elbows are a common feature on shielded cables. Thermography may be used to provide evidence of loose or deteriorated connections associated with these connectors.
11/07/2011 6:30PM
Autumn Driving Tips
It's that time of year when brightly colored trees remind us that Autumn is upon us. Taking a few precautions can help to make driving safer by addressing challenges unique to the fall season.
11/01/2011 3:30 PM
Delta T Alert: Wireless Tempature Monitoring of Electrical Enclosures
Thermography is a proven technology for detecting elevated temperatures within operating electrical distribution systems. Typically performed on an annual basis, infrared inspections can detect evidence of overheating caused by loose/deteriorated connections, overloaded circuits, and imbalanced loads.
10/31/2011 8:30AM
Compensating for Reflected Temperature in Hot Enviroments
When performing quantitative thermography in areas with high ambient temperatures and strong, multiple sources of radiant energy, it is important to pay particular attention to the level and direction of the background energy reflected from objects being measured.
10/24/2011 3:30PM
The Weakest Link
We've all heard the phrase, A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. When it comes to thermography, the weakest link is frequently not the test equipment but rather the thermographer.
10/17/2011 9:41PM
Autumn is the Time for Steam Trap Testing
With the onset of seasonably cooler weather, autumn is the time to prepare your steam system for the upcoming heating season. Testing your steam traps before the season begins can help to pinpoint costly leaks before the heating season begins.
10/10/2011 6:30 AM
Why Do Transformers Hum?
Experienced electricians with a sense of humor will tell you,It s because they don't know the words. Recently, Swiss scientists have developed a more scientific theory on the reason for the hum associated with energized AC transformers.
10/03/2011 9:30 AM
Netiquette and Your Online Image
First impressions not only count but they can last a long time. Bad impressions can last forever especially if their source is constantly in public view on an internet message board.
10/01/2011 12:29 PM
Getting to the "Core" of Your Generator Stator Problems
The condition of a power generation plant s generator stator cores is an important consideration any time repair work is to be carried out on a generator. Downtime of the generator must be kept to a minimum and there is no room for errors or unforeseen problems prior to start up.
9/26/2011 2:30 PM
Autumn IR Inspections to Assess Roof Condition
With much of the US experiencing record setting heat, it is hard to think about winter. For many, autumn provides a perfect opportunity to conduct infrared inspections of flat roofs to help ensure that they are ready for the upcoming colder months.
9/19/2011 9:30 AM
Contracts for Infrared Inspections
A perpetual quest among professional thermographers involves seeking a standard contract for their inspection services. In this Tip, we offer a time-tested solution that can help to increase sales and improve customer satisfaction.
9/12/2011 7:30 PM
Training A Wise Use of Year End Budget Money
When it comes to spending year end budget monies, the phrase Use it or Lose it often applies. Training can be a wise choice for those looking to reduce a budget surplus.
9/05/2011 12:30 PM
Select an IR Training Firm
As thermography has gained in popularity, the demand for training services has also increased. Since operator training can have a profound effect on the success of an infrared program, obtaining quality training is of paramount importance.
9/01/2011 2:41 AM
Enhanced Diagnostics through Ultrasound Imaging
Ultrasound and Infrared are complementary technologies for generalized PdM activities. Ultrasound will hear what infrared might not see . Many IR thermographers are now incorporating ultrasound scans of enclosed electric cabinets as part of their inspection protocol to avoid potential arc flash incidents.
8/29/2011 9:00 AM
School's Open - Drive Carefully
For many areas, September is a month of transition cooler weather, leaves turning color, and children returning to school. In this Tip we offer some advice for keeping school students safe.
8/22/2011 10:13 AM
Improving Accuracy of IR Temature Measurements
As infrared technology has advanced, radiometers have become a common tool for many maintenance technicians and mechanics. Although radiometers are relatively easy to use, there are several important factors that influence the accuracy of a radiometer s readings.
8/15/2011 6:45 AM
Calculating Field of View
Have you ever wondered what the size of your imagers field of view is at a given distance? If you know the visual field of view specifications for a thermal imager, it is possible to calculate the size of your imager s viewing area for any given distance using a scientific calculator.
8/08/2011 9:50 AM
Infrared Inspections to Detect Latent Moisture
As interest in building remediation has increased, thermography has become a common tool for helping to detect moisture damage. Knowing when and how to conduct an infrared inspection is key to success.
8/01/2011 8:30 PM
Pioneering Large Building Air Leakage Testing
Amid the myriad attempts at energy conservation and building advancement, air barriers have recently been brought into view as an effective and viable solution towards better buildings.
8/01/2011 8:11 AM
Heat Stress and Hydration
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. In last week s Tip, we covered the topic of heat stress, its symptoms, and treatment. This Tip focuses on the importance of hydration as a preventive measure.
7/25/2011 2:17 PM
Heat Stress and the Human Body
For many, the peak of Summer brings high temperatures to the workplace. For others, high temperatures in the workplace are an everyday occurrence.
7/18/2011 2:50 PM
United Infrared Launches ElectricIR!" - the Electrical Infrared P/PM Module
United Infrared, Inc. (UI) announces the launch of its newest application module, ElectricIR!".ElectricIR!" is a network of infrared thermographers who provide infrared surveys of electrical equipment.
7/18/2011 6:17 AM
Understanding Electrical Arc Flash
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), an arc flash is a dangerous condition associated with the release of energy caused by an electric arc. Explosions associated with arc flash can cause severe burns, injuries and/or death.
7/11/2011 11:48 AM
Easier Than A, B, C
When performing infrared inspections of electrical distribution systems, many people identify the individual phases of polyphase circuits as A, B, and C; others frequently use 1, 2, and 3.
7/07/2011 12:33 PM
Testo Lowers Prices on Thermal Imagers
Testo Inc. is pleased to announce it is lowering the prices on its entire thermal imager product line, including models 875, 876, 881 and 882.
7/04/2011 7:42 AM
IR Inspections of Smooth Surfaced Roofs
Having the right tool for the job is often essential for success. When performing infrared inspections of smooth-surfaced roofs, a short wave thermal imager can significantly outperform a long wave imager.
7/01/2011 4:33 PM
NEC Avio Infrared Technologies Announces Thermal Imager Giveaway
San Fernando, CA July 1, 2011 NEC Avio Infrared Technologies, Ltd. Company, a world leader in Thermal Imaging Cameras and Systems, proudly announces the opportunity to win an NEC Avio InfReC Thermo Gear G100 High Resolution, Portable Thermal Imaging Camera, valued at $9,995!
7/01/2011 7:30 AM
ABC's of Media Mojo
Most businesses recognize the importance of having a website. In the rapidly evolving world of the internet, having a static website is not enough. Today s websites must be interesting, dynamic and easy to find. There are eleven key elements of social media you can use to get your website noticed.
6/27/2011 9:42 AM
Higher Resolution Imagers - What You Really Need to Know
The recent introduction of 640 x 480 pixel imagers has many thermographers speculating on the impact this equipment will have on our industry and their business. In this Tip we separate marketing hype from physics by revisiting the issue of resolution and its importance in thermal imaging.
6/20/2011 9:33 PM
Calculating Infrared Inspection Program Payback
Calculating savings and/or avoided costs is one of the most difficult tasks associated with an infrared inspection program; however, doing so is required in order to gauge how effective a program is.
6/13/2011 10:33 AM
Stockton Infrared Thermographic Services and Infraspection Institute to Participate in the Energy Cost Reduction Tour.
June 1, 2011 Stockton Infrared Thermographic Services, Inc. and Infraspection Institute will be featured in the Energy Cost Reduction Tour, hosted by Joel Leonard of Skill TV, www.skilltv.net and the Fort Bragg Alliance. Scheduled for June 20 23, the tour topic is Infrared Thermography: Hot Technology That Can Drive Energy Cost Reductions . The purpose of the tour is to educate students and faculty on the benefits of infrared technology to businesses.
6/13/2011 9:33 AM
IR Inspections of Emergency Power Systems
UPS systems and emergency generators are common defenses for facilities where uninterrupted electrical power is critical. Performed properly, IR inspections can help to improve reliability of emergency power systems.
6/06/2011 2:33 PM
NFPA 70E & Infrared Thermography
On September 5, 2008, the eighth edition of NFPA 70E Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace became available superceding all previous editions.This latest edition of NFPA 70E contains several important changes and specifically addresses thermographic inspections of energized electrical systems.
6/01/2011 2:56 PM
Heat Matters in Cooling Data Centers.
Information technology (IT) managers are worrying more about heat in their data centers every day. The reliable and efficient operation of the power, cooling and support systems are vital to the continuous flow of information in these mission critical facilities.
5/31/2011 2:33 PM
Guaging Solar Loading
Did you know that an automobile can be used to gauge solar loading? Under the correct conditions, a parked car can serve as a cheap, but effective, pyranometer.
5/23/2011 9:30 AM
A Hidden Danger in Electrical Systems
Although thermography is a non-contact test, preparing for an infrared inspection of electrical equipment often requires manual preparation of switchgear components. Unwary thermographers and their assistants can be injured by making contact with cabinets or component surfaces that have become accidentally or unintentionally energized.
5/16/2011 9:45 AM
Images and Reports - Who Owns Them?
It is said that, possession is nine tenths of the law. When it comes to infrared data, ownership is often not that simple. In this Tip we explore the frequently misunderstood topic of infrared data ownership.
5/9/2011 9:30 PM
Measuring Motor Temperatures
Temperature can be an indicator of the condition of installed electric motors; however, the best location for measuring temperature is often debated. In this Tip we discuss the best location for measuring motor temperatures.
5/3/2011 3:02 PM
Ladder Safety - Part 2
For many thermographers, ladders provide a means for accessing remote areas and equipment. In this week’s Tip we cover safety tips applicable to extension ladders.
5/3/2011 10:51 AM
Thermal Patterns Associated with Infrared Inspection of Electrical Systems
Throughout the evolution of infrared technology for predictive maintenance applications, electrical system inspections remain the cornerstone of the industry. Despite being somewhat overshadowed in recent years by building science applications, the demand for infrared inspections of electrical systems remains high.Â
4/24/2011 10:54 AM
Ladder Safety - Part 1
For many thermographers, ladders provide a means for accessing remote areas and equipment. Taking the time to use ladders properly can help to prevent serious or fatal injuries.
4/18/2011 11:04 AM
Using an Isotherm to Detect Potential Condensation Sites
Condensation on interior building surfaces can lead to a variety of problems including conditions conducive to mold growth. Used properly, the isotherm feature found on many infrared imagers can be utilized to spot potential condensation sites.
4/11/2011 10:39 AM
Care and Feeding of Infrared Lenses and Other Optics
Like all fine optics, the lens of an infrared camera must be treated with special care to maintain the integrity of the image and accuracy of the information you are expecting it capture.
4/5/2011 1:22 PM
Infrared Inspections of UPS Systems
Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) systems are commonly found in facilities where reliable electrical power is critical. Infrared inspections can play a key role in maintaining these crucial systems.
3/31/2011 1:54 PM
Back to Reality: Infrared Thermography (IRT) as an Objectifier of Equine Back Pain and Saddle-fitting Problems
Infrared Thermography (IRT) has many uses in the equine industry. In biological systems the detection of surface heat is directly correlated with changes in circulation, thus providing evidence of inflammation or decreased perfusion. Currently, the diagnosis of equine back pain is subjective, reliant on the veterinarian’s ability to palpate using his or her hands, and on the trainer’s or rider’s knowledge of how training and behavioral problems may relate to equine back pathology and saddle-fitting problems.
3/27/2011 12:23 PM
Combining IR Imaging and Ultrasound to Find Pipe Leak
Locating pipe leaks hidden within finished walls can be tricky. In this Tip we examine the use of thermal imaging and airborne ultrasound to help pinpoint the source of a leak.
3/24/2011 9:38 AM
Houston Inspector Achieves Level-II Certification as Infrared Thermographer
Chuck Evans, owner and founder of Houston Thermal Inspections, recently completed Infraspection Institute’s Level II Certified Infrared Thermographer® training course held in Mount Laurel, NJ.Â
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