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Tip of the Week Archive

The Weakest Link

April 16, 2018

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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 courses meet the requirements for training of NDT personnel in accordance with the ASNT document, SNT-TC-1A and ISO standards.

Visit Infraspection Institute Web Site

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