2011
IR Inspections of Smooth Surfaced Roofs
Tip written by: Infraspection Institute
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.
Smooth-surfaced roofs, both single-ply and built-up, can present significant challenges during an infrared inspection due to reflectivity of the roof membrane. Should reflectance be sufficiently high, areas of latent moisture may be undetectable to a thermal imager.
Most infrared inspections of flat or low slope roofing systems are conducted at night by walking across the roof surface using a handheld thermal imager. This technique often results in a relatively shallow viewing angle thereby lowering the emittance of the subject roof membrane.
Depending upon site conditions and roof materials, roof membranes can appear to be as reflective as polished metal surfaces. Membrane reflectivity will be especially noticeable on cool, clear nights that permit the cold night sky to be reflected from the roof surface. It will also be significant on roofs that have been coated with aluminum paint.
To this day, the most practical way to deal with the reflectivity of smooth roof membranes is to utilize a thermal imager with short wave (2 to 5.6 micron) spectral response. This will help to eliminate reflections from the roof and can significantly increase inspection accuracy. Although long wave imagers can be used for smooth membranes, they can significantly understate the size of moisture-damaged areas or miss them entirely.
Infrared inspections of low slope roofs is of the many topics covered in the Level I Infraspection Institute Certified Infrared Thermographer® training course. For information on thermographer training and certification, visit us online at www.infraspection.com or call us at 609-239-4788.
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Easier Than A, B, C
Tip written by: Infraspection Institute
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.
Confusion can arise with alphabetical or numerical labels particularly when switchgear enclosures are inspected from different perspectives e.g. front versus rear. Further confusion can occur when phase rotation has been modified or changed or, in some cases, mislabelled.
Reference errors can be avoided by using terms that cannot be confused such as Left, Middle, Right OR Upper, Middle, Lower. When using such terms, one should always reference where the image was taken from. For outside power lines references such as Street, Center, and Field may be used to identify phases without confusion.
Using the above simple terms can make your reports easier to understand and help to eliminate confusion when repairs are performed.
Infrared inspection of electrical distribution systems is one of the many applications covered in the Infraspection Institute Level I Certified Infrared Thermographer® training course. For course schedules or to obtain a copy of the Standard for Infrared Inspection of Electrical Systems and Rotating Equipment, visit Infraspection Institute online at www.infraspection.com or call us at 609-239-4788.
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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. Understanding arc flash is the first step to guarding against it.
Often, the most serious injuries associated with electrical accidents are caused by the effects of arc flash, not electrocution. When an arc flash occurs, tremendous amounts of energy are instantaneously released creating the potential for serious or fatal injuries. Among the most dangerous conditions are:
Radiant Heat: Temperatures associated with arc flash can exceed 35,000º F at the arc source. This temperature is nearly four times the temperature of the Sun! At these temperatures, matter instantaneously vaporizes.
Fire: A conductive-plasma fireball can develop during an arc flash. Fatal burns may occur at distances of more than 10 feet from the source of the flash. In addition to burns, flammable clothing may ignite.
Arc Blast: The high temperatures associated with arc flash rapidly heat the surrounding air causing a high-pressure wave or blast. Injuries associated with blast include falls, concussions and hearing damage.
Flying Objects: Flying debris created by damaged components can also cause serious injury. In the heat of an arc flash, copper can expand by a factor of 67,000 times as it vaporizes. Shrapnel and molten metal can cause injuries at significant distances from an arc source.
Thermographer safety is one of the many topics covered in the Infraspection Institute Level I Certified Infrared Thermographer® training course. For more information including course locations and dates, visit Infraspection Institute online or call us at 609-239-4788.
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Heat Stress & 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. Understanding heat stress and its attendant safety challenges is crucial for those working in hot environments.
What is heat stress?
Heat stress is a physical hazard. It is caused by environmental conditions and results in the breakdown of the human thermal regulating system.
What are the symptoms of heat stress?
There are various degrees of heat stress. Each has its own unique symptoms. The most common form of heat stress is heat exhaustion. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness, confusion, headaches, upset stomach, weakness, decreased urine output, dark-colored urine, fainting, and pale clammy skin.
What do I do If I think I am experiencing some form of heat stress?
Act immediately –
- Advise a co-worker that you do not feel well
- Move to an area away from the hot environment
- Seek shade and cooler temperatures
- Drink water (1 – 8 oz. cup every 15 minutes) unless sick to the stomach
- Have someone stay with you until you feel better
What should I think about before working in a hot environment?
Before working in a hot environment, consider the type of work to be performed, duration of time to be spent in hot areas, level of physical activity, and other nearby hazards. Always use appropriate PPE and work together as a team.
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Heat Stress & 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.
What is heat stress?
Heat stress is a physical hazard. It is caused by environmental conditions and results in the breakdown of the human thermal regulating system. If you work or play in hot environments, your body needs a lot more water than you might think.
What is hydration?
Hydration is the process of adding water. Our bodies need water to do many things. In hot environments we need large quantities of water to help keep our bodies cooled to a temperature that allows them to function properly. Heat stress becomes a health and safety concern when the volume of water we need to function drops below the level necessary to maintain homeostasis. We call this low water condition dehydration or under-hydration. The average person is 7% under-hydrated.
How can I avoid being under-hydrated?
Developing the habit of drinking water at routine intervals. One 8 oz. cup every hour on hot days will assure proper hydration.
How will I know if I am properly hydrated?
Check the color of your urine. You are properly hydrated if your urine is clear, copious in volume, and light yellow in color.
What are the benefits of proper hydration?
Staying properly hydrated will help to avoid heat stress and may increase your energy level. For every 1% under-hydration, you lose 5% of your energy potential.
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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.
Water infiltration into buildings can have devastating effects on building materials. Left untreated, latent moisture can cause excess energy loss, mold growth and/or structural failure. Latent moisture also causes changes in the thermal capacitance and conductivity of materials.
Prior to performing an infrared inspection, determine the best vantage point for imaging. Insulated roofs and exterior building finishes such as EIFS are traditionally inspected from the exterior of the building. Interior inspections are usually effective when moisture is affecting interior finishes of the building such as drywall. Thermal imaging may not be effective for low emittance targets.
Next, choose an appropriate time to ensure that a detectable Delta T will be present. For roofs and building exteriors, best results are usually obtained during evening hours following a sunny day. As an alternative, inspections may also be performed when there is an inside/outside temperature differential of at least 10Cº. In some cases, inspections performed from the interior may be performed with a smaller Delta T.
Thermal signatures associated with latent moisture will vary with type of building material and the amount of moisture contained therein. Depending upon vantage point and time of inspection, exceptions caused by latent moisture may show as either hot or cold thermal anomalies. These anomalies may be amorphously shaped, mottled, or correspond to the size and shape of absorbent materials. All thermal data should be correlated with invasive testing to ascertain moisture content of inspected areas.
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Calculating Field of View
Have you ever wondered what the size of your imager’s 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. The formula for this calculation is:
{(tangent 1/2 viewing angle) x distance} x 2
To apply the above formula, follow these steps:
1. Determine your imager’s Field of View (in degrees) from the manufacturer’s specs.
2. Divide the value from Step 1 by 2
3. Use scientific calculator to determine tangent of number obtained in Step 2
4. Multiply number in Step 3 by distance from imager lens to object.
5. Multiply number in obtained in Step 4 by 2. This will be the width of the imager’s field of view at the specified distance.
Example: Calculate field of view for 16° lens at 25’.
(tan 8° x 25’) x 2 =
(0.140541 x 25’) x 2 =
(3.513525’) x 2 = ˜ 7.0’
If your imager specifies different Field of View values for horizontal and vertical, it will be necessary to calculate each value separately. Calculated values should be used for estimation purposes as actual values may vary slightly.
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Improving Accuracy of IR Temperature 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. Infrared radiometers offer several advantages when it comes to temperature measurements.
Measurements are non-contact, non-destructive and can be obtained quickly. Unfortunately, radiometers are not self-diagnostic and cannot warn the operator of erroneous readings. The following are some simple tips that can help to ensure accurate infrared temperature measurements.
- Target should be stationary and at a stable temperature with a dry surface
- Radiometer lens should be clean and free from obstructions
- Radiometer batteries should be fully charged
- IR temperature measurements should be made perpendicular to target
- IR radiometer should be operated at a distance to ensure that spot measurement size is smaller than the target
- Accurate emissivity and reflected temperature values should be input into the radiometer’s computer.
Whenever possible, infrared readings should be correlated with known temperature values. If a discrepancy is observed, it could be due to a procedural error in measurement or the radiometer may require calibration.
For more information on infrared temperature measurement, or to obtain information on thermographer training and certification, contact Infraspection Institute at 609-239-4788 or visit us online at www.infraspection.com.
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School’s Open – Drive Carefully
Tip content provided by: Mid-Atlantic AAA
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.
Over 56 million students are projected to be enrolled in U.S. schools this fall; over 70 percent will be under 15 years old. According to the National Highway Traffic Administration, one-fifth of all children 14 years of age and younger who die in motor vehicle crashes are pedestrians. On average, one pedestrian is killed in the United States every two hours.
Morning can be a dangerous time for children, as they travel to the bus stop, ride their bike to school or walk along their routine path. Afternoon introduces additional risks as the ring of the final bell marks the sound of freedom for school-age children. Unfortunately, children are often distracted by thoughts of playtime or are unable to accurately judge traffic situations while on their journey home.
Keeping the following in mind can help protect everyone’s safety:
- Slow down in or near school and residential areas.
- Drive with your headlights on – even during the day – so children and other drivers can see you.
- Look for clues such as School Safety Patrols, Adult Crossing Guards, bicycles, and playgrounds, which indicate children could be in the area.
- Always stop for school buses that are loading/unloading students.
- Limit distractions such as cell phones, CD players or other devices that cause you to take your eyes off the road.
- Practice extra caution in adverse weather conditions.
- Pay particular attention near schools during the morning and afternoon hours.
- Scan between parked cars and other objects for signs that children could dart into the road.
Remember, school’s open – drive carefully. You can make a difference just by staying alert and taking the extra care while driving where children are present. For more info on driving safety, contact the Mid-Atlantic AAA.
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September 09, 2011
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Selecting an IR Training Firm
Tip written by: Infraspection Institute
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.
At present, there are several firms that offer infrared training and certification. While nearly all infrared training firms refer to their training courses by level (1, 2, or 3), there are no standards which dictate the content of any offered course. As a result, training courses can vary widely between firms.
When choosing an infrared training firm, be certain to:
- Examine course curriculum to ensure that it meets one’s needs
- Ensure that course will be germane to all infrared imagers, regardless of age
- Ascertain if Certification is included with course, its expiration date, and renewal fees
- Determine number of years training firm has been in business – not the cumulative total of staff years
- Insist that instructors be practicing thermographers with documentable field experience in their area of instruction
Lastly, beware of claims that training is “vendor neutral”. It is impossible for training firms to sell infrared equipment or train for equipment manufacturers without being biased. Firms who train for manufacturers work for manufacturers and cannot provide the unbiased information students deserve. Simply put, no man can serve two masters.
Infraspection Institute has been providing infrared training and certification for infrared thermographers since 1980. Our Level I, II, and III Certified Infrared Thermographer® training courses meet the training requirements for NDT personnel in accordance with the ASNT document, SNT-TC-1A. All courses are taught by practicing, expert Level III thermographers whose field experience is unsurpassed anywhere in the world. We teach effective, real-world solutions using the latest standards, software and technology. For more information call 609-239-4788 or visit us online at www.infraspection.com.
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September 12, 2011
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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.
Staying within budget is a constant challenge for maintenance managers. For many, it seems that there is never enough money in the budget. On occasion, however, it is possible to experience a surplus in one’s budget when nearing year end.
When faced with a budget surplus, it is imperative to fully utilize allocated financial resources. Failure to do so can cause a reduction in future budgeting if management perceives that your department is over funded. When searching for wise choices for year-end spending, training is always a good option.
Thermographic training is a sound investment for initiating a PdM program or expanding an existing one. Whenever considering infrared training be certain to:
- Examine course curriculum to ensure that it meets your needs
- Ensure that course will be germane to all infrared imagers
- Determine course locations or availability of Distance Learning courses
- Ascertain if certification is included with course, its expiration date, and renewal fees
- Insist that instructors be practicing thermographers with documented field experience in their area of instruction
Infraspection Institute has been providing infrared training and certification for infrared thermographers since 1980. Our Level I, II, and III Certified Infrared Thermographer® training courses meet the training requirements for NDT personnel in accordance with the ASNT document, SNT-TC-1A. Certification and applications courses are offered as open enrollment or on-site classes or through our Distance Learning program. All courses are taught by expert Level III thermographers whose field experience is unsurpassed anywhere in the world. For more information call 609-239-4788 or visit us online at www.infraspection.com.
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September 19, 2011
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Contracts for Infrared Inspections
Tip written by: Infraspection Institute
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.
A contract is a binding legal agreement that is enforceable in a court of law. Simply put, a contract is an exchange of promises, which if broken, have remedy in the law. Among other things, an infrared inspection contract should address the responsibilities of the thermographer and the client, work to be performed, applicable standards and procedures, pricing, delivery, and payment terms.
Due to the diverse nature of infrared inspection services, preparing a one-size-fits-all contract can be very difficult. This challenge becomes even greater when ancillary services such as providing electricians or moisture verification are required as part of a project. In many areas, preparing a contract requires the assistance of a legal professional in order to ensure that the final contract meets all regulatory and legal requirements.
For professional thermographers, the first step in approaching any new project should be to generate a formal proposal. This proposal should contain all information pertinent to the project and be sufficiently detailed to reflect the responsibilities of all parties including the client and the thermographer. Once a proposal has been deemed satisfactory by a client, a Purchase Order or contract may then be prepared and forwarded to the thermographer for review and acceptance.
Infraspection Institute offers standard proposal templates for several different types of residential and commercial infrared inspections. Each template provides suggested wording and format for preparing a comprehensive and professional proposal.
Eight proposal templates are currently available covering the following applications: electrical systems, mechanical systems, electro/mechanical systems, building envelopes, insulated roofs, process equipment, steam traps, and underground piping. Each template outlines scope of work, pricing options, client and thermographer responsibilities, applicable standards, additional services, and terms.
All templates are provided in a Microsoft Word file and can be modified to suit the user’s particular needs. Templates may be used as core language for contract documents. Purchase price includes license for unlimited use of template by the original purchaser. Templates are available individually or as a complete set of eight through the Infraspection Online Store.
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September 26, 2011
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Autumn IR Inspections to Assess Roof Condition
Tip written by: Infraspection Institute
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.
Summer can be especially tough on roofing systems. High temperatures, building movement, and UV radiation often cause cracks and splits in the waterproofing system. Left undetected, these cracks and splits can lead to roof leaks and premature roof failure. Performing an infrared roof inspection prior to the onset of colder weather can detect evidence of problems and help to direct repair efforts.
Performed under the proper conditions with the right equipment, an infrared inspection can detect evidence of latent moisture within the roofing system often before leaks become evident in the building. For many locations, autumn provides perfect conditions for conducting an infrared inspection and performing any necessary roof repairs.
The best candidates for infrared inspection are flat or low slope roofs where the insulation is located between the roof deck and the membrane and is in direct contact with the underside of the membrane. Applicable constructions are roofs with either smooth or gravel-surfaced, built-up or single-ply membranes. If gravel is present, it should be less than ½” in diameter and less than 1” thick.
For smooth-surfaced roofs, a short wave (2-5.6 µ) imager will provide more accurate results especially if the roof is painted with a reflective coating. All infrared data should be verified by a qualified roofing professional via core sampling or invasive moisture meter readings.
Infrared inspection of flat roofs and proper equipment selection are two of the many topics covered in the Infraspection Institute Level I Certified Infrared Thermographer® training course. For more information or to register for a course, visit Infraspection Institute or call us at 609-239-4788.
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October 03, 2011
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Netiquette and Your Online Image
Tip written by: Infraspection Institute
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.
Humans leave their mark everywhere they go. They leave fingerprints on the things they touch, footprints in the sand where they walk, and personal impressions on those they meet. A less considered type of impression is an ‘internet footprint’ which is created whenever a person posts to public message boards or blogs.
Web posts often make permanent impressions on those who read them. Web posts that are timely, accurate, and professional can serve to help others and create a positive image for their authors. Bad or inappropriate posts can cause permanent damage and even harm one’s business. When posting on the net, following a few simple rules or netiquette can help to avoid creating a bad impression in cyberspace.
- Do not post anything you would not (or should not) say in public
- Always refrain from using foul, profane, or vulgar language
- Do not badger others or attack their personal beliefs
- Avoid over exposure. Chronic posting or posting ‘round the clock gives the impression that you have nothing better to do.
- Keep in mind that posts can be viewed worldwide across different languages and cultures. Humor and witticism rarely translate well; sarcasm is often magnified.
Lastly, remember to think before you hit the ‘send’ button. Web posts often have an unintended permanence and are available for the world to see. Webmasters are rarely under any obligation to remove or edit posts regardless of how unflattering they may be.
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October 10, 2011
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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.
When alternating current reverses 60 times per second, the iron core of an energized transformer undergoes magnetetostriction twice during each cycle. In other words, 120 times per second induced fields cause the core to stretch slightly; a meter-sized transformer might stretch or shrink by only a micron but this would be enough to set up an audible 120-Hz hum.
The new experimental work probes theories, going all the way back to Werner Heisenberg in the 1920s, about how the shrinkage arises from the magnetic interactions (spin exchange) among pairs of atoms (dimers), which share a common electron. The two magnetic ions want to be closer together.
For studying this effect iron itself is not the best test material and the Swiss scientists (ETH Lab in Zurich and the University of Bern) use another magnetic atom, manganese. Mn is a common ingredient in the magneto-resistance data storage systems found in most disk drives. Normally in a pure crystal, Mn atoms would be arrayed in endless straight lines. But in this experiment the Mn atoms are isolated, two by two, with plenty of intervening magnesium atoms. This allows the researchers to variably “dilute” the magnet interactions between Mn atoms.
The strength of these interactions (or to be more precise the energy levels of the excited Mn atoms) is measured by scattering a beam of neutrons from the sample, a process called neutron spectroscopy. The observed microscopic magnetostriction mimics the striction at the macroscopic level, but it does depart considerably from the predictions of the traditional Heisenberg model.
Tip excerpted from American Institute of Physics bulletin, Physics News Update.
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October 17, 2011
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Autumn is the Time for Steam Trap Testing
Tip written by: Infraspection Institute
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.
Traditionally, two different non-destructive technologies have been employed to test steam systems – contact ultrasonics and temperature measurement. Used individually, each of these techniques has limitations that can lead to false positive and/or false negative results. Combining temperature measurement with ultrasound can result in a highly accurate test method by following a few simple steps:
- Measure trap inlet to ensure that temperature is above 212º F. If trap inlet is below 212º F, ascertain why steam is not reaching trap
- Listen to the trap outlet with contact probe of ultrasonic unit. Continuous hissing or rushing sounds usually indicate a failed trap
- Ascertain that trap is cycling periodically. Frequent cycling may be caused by an undersized or worn trap
- Tag defective traps and document in written report
- Re-test defective traps after repair to ensure effectiveness of repair.
Always be sure to follow appropriate safety precautions especially when working with high pressure steam or when using ladders or lift equipment.
Infrared inspection of steam traps is one of the many topics covered in the Level I Infraspection Institute Certified Infrared Thermographer® training course. For information on thermographer training including course locations and dates, visit us online at www.infraspection.com or call us at 609-239-4788.
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October 24, 2011
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The Weakest Link
Tip written by: Infraspection Institute
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.
All too often, many facility managers are led to believe that infrared imagers are fully automatic instruments that require nothing more than “point and shoot” operation. While thermography is a science, it is also an art or craft requiring a skilled human operator for both conducting the inspection and interpreting the data obtained.
In order to achieve maximum effectiveness, thermographers need to have an understanding of infrared theory, heat transfer concepts, equipment capabilities and limitations, and environmental conditions, as well being knowledgeable about the system(s) being inspected.
Whether you are setting up an infrared inspection program or maintaining one, thermographer training should not be overlooked. Obtaining quality training is an investment that can pay huge dividends by maximizing the effectiveness of thermographers and eliminating your weakest link.
Infraspection Institute offers Level I, II, and III training and certification for thermographers worldwide. Our infrared training programs meet the requirements for training of NDT personnel in accordance with the ASNT document, SNT-TC-1A.
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October 31, 2011
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Compensating for Reflected Temperature in Hot Environments
Tip provided by: Wayne Swirnow Infraspection Institute Staff Instructor
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.
Both imaging and non-imaging radiometers convert the invisible infrared radiation emitted by an object into a temperature value. When measuring thermally opaque objects, the infrared energy collected by these devices is the sum total of energy emitted by, and reflected from, the target’s surface. When performing infrared inspections in areas with significant sources of reflections, it is important to understand and control sources of reflected energy to help eliminate both qualitative and quantitative errors.
An example of an environment with significant background radiation would be the emergency generator room of a data center. Often this is a small room populated by one or more large diesel engines with attached generators. These engines have exposed high temperature exhaust manifolds and pipes, turbo chargers, and coolant pipes all of which radiate large amounts of heat during operation. The thermal reflections created by such equipment can make qualitative imaging difficult and significantly affect the accuracy of radiometric temperature measurements.
Emergency generators are often located in close proximity to electrical switchgear and transfer switches which are the subject of an infrared inspection. When performing an infrared inspections in such locations, thermographers can minimize errors by shielding the measured object from sources of reflections. In some cases, a thermographer may use their own body to help shade or shield the target. As an alternative, it may be necessary to use a sheet of cardboard or other thermally opaque material to temporarily block the source of the reflected energy.
When using a radiometer that has corrective inputs for reflected energy, a thermographer should measure and compensate for reflected temperature to further ensure measurement accuracy.
The Infraspection Institute Standard for Measuring and Compensating for Reflected Temperature Using Infrared Imaging Radiometers provides simple and practical procedures for dealing with errors associated with reflected temperature. Copies of the standard are available through the Infraspection Institute Online Store .
Wayne Swirnow is a Level III Infraspection Institute Certified Infrared Thermographer® and professional infrared consultant. Wayne specializes in commercial and industrial thermography as well as being certified by the Building Performance Institute as a Building Analyst. Wayne is the founder and owner of Infrared Imaging Services LLC a commercial infrared inspection company, headquartered in New City, NY.
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November 07, 2011
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Autumn Driving Tips
Tip provided by the South Dakota Safety Council
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.
- Patches of fallen leaves can be just as treacherous as patches of ice. Fallen leaves retain large amounts of water and can create a slippery surface. Drive slowly through them and avoid hard or panic braking.
- Fall brings the first frost. Be aware of slippery conditions that occur with frost. At freezing or near freezing temperatures, the moisture on bridges and overpasses will become ice much more quickly than the approach roadway. The roadways hold heat and the bridges do not; you can go from wet roadway to ice in just a fraction of a second.
- Fall weather such as rain, fog, sleet and wet snow require full driver attention. Remember the “two-second rule” when following other drivers, and in severe weather increase your following distance. If you are being tailgated, let the other driver pass.
- Later sunrises and earlier sunsets can create sun glare. Be sure your windows are clean, inside and out, and have sunglasses handy. If you’re driving away from a low sun, glare will not be a problem for you, but it can be for the drivers approaching from the other direction. It may help to use your low beam headlights, allowing you to be seen more readily.
- In most areas, animal collisions are at their peak in the fall. Be on guard when traveling through areas where wildlife is likely to cross the road.
Common sense along with the basics of safe driving – always wearing a safety belt, driving alert and sober, and driving at safe and legal speeds – can help you travel safely in the fall.
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November 14, 2011
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Infrared Inspection of Load Break Elbows
Tip written by: Infraspection Institute
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.
Load break elbows are insulated plug-type terminals typically used to terminate shielded, underground cables. Load break elbows act as large power plugs for connecting cables to transformers, switching cabinets and bushings equipped with load break receptacle bushings.
Internal to load break elbows are several mechanical connections each of which is subject to deterioration over time. A typical elbow contains a crimp connection and a pin electrode that screws into the elbow. During normal operation, this pin electrode mates with a receptacle which also contains mechanical connections. Elbows and receptacles that have loose or deteriorated connections will operate at elevated temperatures and are readily detectable with a thermal imager.
Normally, all electrical connections within an elbow are hidden from view due to the elbow’s molded rubber insulating body. Due to their high emittance, load break elbows are excellent candidates for infrared inspections. In fact, thermal imaging is one of the best ways to inspect these components for the integrity of their connections.
Since line-of-sight access to the electrical connections within load break elbows is not possible, temperatures at the point of origin are likely to be much hotter than observed temperature values on the exterior surface. Small Delta T’s observed on the surface of elbows can be indicative of a serious problem. Because of this, hot load break elbows should be investigated for cause as soon as possible and appropriate corrective measures taken.
Infrared inspection of power distribution systems is one of the many topics covered in the Level I Infraspection Institute Certified Infrared Thermographer® training course. For information on thermographer training including course locations and dates, visit us online at www.infraspection.com or call us at 609-239-4788.
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November 21, 2011
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Thanksgiving Safety Tip
Tip written by: Infraspection Institute
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.
According to estimates from the Centers for Disease Control, approximately 76 million Americans become ill each year as a result of foodborne pathogens. Of these, approximately 5,000 die. Proper hygiene practices before, during, and after food preparation can reduce the risk of food poisoning.
As part of their nationwide Be Food Safe public education campaign, the US Department of Agriculture offers four simple tips for safe food preparation:
Clean – Wash hands, surfaces and utensils often to avoid spreading bacteria when preparing food.
Separate – Use different cutting boards for raw meat, poultry, seafood and vegetables. Keep raw turkey away from vegetables and side dishes that won’t be cooked.
Cook – You can’t tell it’s done by how it looks! Use a food thermometer. Every part of the turkey should reach a minimum internal temperature of 165ºF.
Chill – Keep the refrigerator at 40ºF or below to keep bacteria from growing. Pumpkin pie should always be refrigerated and all food should be refrigerated within two hours.
If deep fried turkey is your preference, be sure to observe all safety precautions and never leave your fryer unattended. For more information on food safety, visit the US Department of Agriculture website.
From all of us at Infraspection Institute, Happy Thanksgiving to all of our readers and friends! May you enjoy a safe and happy holiday in the company of those you love.
~ Jim and Christopher Seffrin ~
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November 28, 2011
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Integration Clauses
Tip provided by:
Robert J. Incollingo
416 Black Horse Pike
Glendora, NJ 08029
856-234-3800
www.rjilaw.com
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. In business, though, express contracts which state the important terms of agreement are the rule. Express contracts can be oral, written, or some mix of the two, and they are sometimes revised as performance progresses.
It is entirely possible to change the terms of a written contract by subsequent oral agreement, unless the contract contains what is known as an integration clause. An integration clause, sometimes in a contract under the headings “No Oral Modification” or “Entire Agreement,” states that the written contract represents the entire understanding of the parties with respect to the subject matter thereof and no changes are valid unless made in writing and signed by the parties. Such a clause will knock out oral understandings, and even bar common-sense incorporation by reference of updated collateral documents. An integration clause will probably prevent you from successfully suing for any misrepresentations preceding the signing of the contract, knocking out your fraud in the inducement defense to the deceiver’s claims of breach.
On the plus side, a well-considered integration clause manages the risk of misunderstandings, and is often a good idea when strangers are dealing with one another at arms’ length. By insisting on the rigor of written amendment, the parties can be sure of the four corners of their contract should a dispute later arise. Before you sign a contract with an integration clause, make doubly sure that all essential terms are in writing.
Bob Incollingo is an attorney in private practice in New Jersey and a regular speaker at Infraspection Institute’s annual IR/INFO Conference.
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December 05, 2011
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Why Headers Appear Cool
Tip written by: Infraspection Institute
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.
Headers are a common construction detail found within building walls that utilize frame construction. Headers are horizontal framing members that are typically located at the top of window and/or door openings. In load bearing walls, headers are typically constructed of framing members that are stronger than vertical framing members.
When fabricating headers in wood frame construction, it is common to utilize framing members that are wider than vertical members. These are then often doubled in thickness and placed at the top of the window or door opening. Because headers are typically wider and/or double thickness, there is usually less cavity space for insulation to be installed wherever headers are present. In these circumstances, it is normal to see greater energy loss wherever headers are present when compared to a properly insulated wall cavity.
When performing an infrared inspection of framed walls from the interior of a building with cold outdoor temperatures, headers will typically appear cooler than insulated wall cavities. Observed thermal patterns will reverse should the same inspection scenario exist with warm outdoor temperatures.
For best results, a minimum inside/outside temperature differential of 10ºC is recommended when inspecting buildings with framed wall construction. Proper conduct of infrared inspections is addressed in the Standard for Infrared Inspection of Building Envelopes. Copies of the standard are available through the Infraspection Institute Online Store.
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December 12, 2011
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Monochrome or Multi-Color?
Tip written by: Infraspection Institute
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. The answer will depend on a number of factors including application, delta T associated with the exception, and personal preference.
Because it is usually less confusing than multicolor palettes, grayscale may be better suited for some applications. Additionally, applications that have a large delta T associated with exceptions or where target recognition is important may be better suited for grayscale imaging. Such applications include electrical distribution systems, building envelopes inspected from the interior of the structure, and low slope roof inspections.
Multicolor palettes offer an advantage when imaging targets having a small delta T associated with exceptions or when imaging targets with several discrete temperature zones. Typical applications include mechanical systems, refractory systems, building envelopes inspected from the exterior, and medical/veterinary applications.
For hardcopy reports, printing monochrome images can result in lower cost than multicolor reports. Lastly, the choice to use monochrome or multicolor is largely a matter of personal preference. Thermographers should always use a palette which best represents the observed thermal patterns and provides data that are easily understood.
Infrared camera operation is one of the many topics covered in the Level I Infraspection Institute Certified Infrared Thermographer® training course. For information on thermographer training including course locations and dates or our convenient Distance Learning Program, visit us online at www.infraspection.com or call us at 609-239-4788.
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December 19, 2011
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Holiday Wishes
Tip written by: Infraspection Institute
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.
Recently, we noticed a television schedule announcing the airing of one of our all-time favorite programs, ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’. As children growing up in the 1960’s, the annual airing of this program was proof that Christmas was just around the corner.
With no reruns on broadcast television, we, like many of our childhood friends, would plan our entire week around watching this special program each year. With a cool soundtrack, the program brought our favorite Peanuts characters to life as Charlie Brown strove to discover the meaning of Christmas. To this day, Linus VanPelt’s simple monologue is one of our favorite holiday memories.
With the holidays and busy year-end schedules upon us once again, we invite you to take the time to make special memories with family and friends and to keep them in your heart where you may easily find them in the future.
As we enjoy this holiday season, we extend a heartfelt Thank You to all of our readers, friends, and associates throughout the world for everything that you do for us all year long.
May your holidays be filled with peace and joy and your New Year with good health and happiness.
~ Jim & Chris Seffrin
Linus’ Monologue
Charlie Brown: Isn’t there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?
Linus: Sure, Charlie Brown. I can tell you what Christmas is all about. Lights, please.
And there were in the same country, shepherds, abiding in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night and lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them. And the glory of the Lord shone ‘round about them and they were so afraid. And the angel said unto them, “Fear not. For behold, I bring you tidings of great joy which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David, a savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you, ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel, a multitude of the heavenly hosts praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest and on Earth, Peace and Goodwill toward men.”
That’s what Christmas is all about Charlie Brown.
Excerpted from ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’ by Charles Schulz
December 26, 2011
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Make a New Year’s Resolution for Safety
Tip written by: Infraspection Institute
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.
The New Year is symbolic for many reasons. For some, the New Year represents a fresh start or new beginning. For others, it provides an opportunity to rededicate one’s self to a set of goals or principles. The New Year provides a perfect opportunity for thermographers to take stock of workplace safety practices and procedures. In doing so, be sure to keep the following in mind:
- Review safety procedures to ensure that they are complete and current
- Ensure that safety training is up-to-date for all personnel including First Aid and CPR
- Physically inspect all Personal Protective Equipment to ensure it is in good condition
- Check calibration and/or replacement dates for all monitoring or test equipment
Lastly, resolve to make safety your number one priority each and every day. Safety is not a poster, a slogan, or a set of actions to be followed only when it is convenient. Rather, safety is way of life that affects not only you but those around you.
Thermographer safety is one of the many topics covered in the Level I Infraspection Institute Certified Infrared Thermographer® training course. For information on thermographer training including course locations and dates, visit us online at www.infraspection.com or call us at 609-239-4788.