The
Applications
The applications for this technology and service include electrcal systems,
construction, and building management. Although infrared testing of electrical
is the most widely known application, there are additional applications for
this service that not be well known. The entire building envelope should be
considered for this technology.
Here are some examples of how infrared thermography is especially adept at diagnosing
common structural deficiencies.
Water Valves/Drains
This example is of a common home-heating boiler valve.
Heating Pipe
This is an example of how infrared testing can be helpful in checking for flow
related problems.
Description - Forced hot water baseboard loop from boiler.
Use - Able to detect hot/cold flow or open, closed, or stuck valves.
The image indicates this zone is running and a determination of how efficiently
by the actual temperature. However, the image shows the pipe above the valve
at one temperature except at the location of the black tape. Each type of material
(wood, glass, metal, etc) has different properties which emit infrared radiation
at different rates. The plastic tape on the metal pipe emits at a different
rate than the copper pipe. The plastic tape indicates the actual temperature.
Electrical Panel
This is an example of how infrared testing can be helpful in checking for electrical
related problems.
Description - Electrical Panel with circuit breakers with substantial
increase in temperature.
Use - Able to detect potential electrical failures.
The image indicates a panel with circuit breakers with substantial increase
in temperature. These breakers could have an extreme load or loose connection.
A visual inspection and checking the connections with a screwdriver could identify
a loose connection and/or an Amp Probe could be used
to check for a high current draw.
Basement Sill
This is an example of how infrared testing can be helpful in checking for infiltration
of cold air in basements, attics, crawl spaces, etc.
Description - Water pipes through insulated basement sill.
Use - Detect cold air infiltration and/or heat loss.
The image shows cold air penetrating sill insulation and entering basement.
Additional insulation installed properly would reduce the possibility of frozen
pipes and/or reduce heating costs.
Loose Connection
This is an example of how infrared testing can be helpful in checking for loose
electrical connections.
Description - Loose connection on circuit breaker.
Use - Able to detect potential electrical failures.
The image shows in increased temperature at the end of the circuit breaker at
the point of connection for the wire. The heat is dissipating as it travels
down the wire. This is an obvious example of a loose screw.
Poor Insulation
This is an example of how infrared testing can be helpful in checking for missing
or poor insulation.
Description - Poor or missing insulation.
Use - Able to detect poor and/or missing insulation as well as cold air
infiltration.
The image shows spots where cold air is entering the building through the roof.
The insulation is missing, installed improperly, or inadequate. When there is
a significant difference in temperature the framing can also be seen. This is
helpful in checking the structure.
