Resources for infrared thermography

Using Thermography to Uncover Hidden Problems

2011-11-30T11:10:19-06:00

Thermography can be used to identify and analyze thermal anomalies for the purposes of condition monitoring of machines. These thermal anomalies are usually caused by such mechanisms as operation, improper lubrication, misalignment, worn components or mechanical loading anomalies.

Infrared thermography is based on measuring the distribution of radiant thermal energy (heat) emitted from a target surface and converting this to a surface temperature map or thermogram. Thermal energy is present with the operation of all machines. It can be in the form of friction losses within machines, energy losses within machines, as a characteristic of the process media or any combination thereof. As a result, temperature can be a key parameter for monitoring the performance of machines, the condition of machines and the diagnostics of machine problems. Temperature is also one of the key causes and symptoms of lubricant degradation and loss of lubrication function within a machine.

Infra

Identifying Mechanical Faults with Motor Current Signature Analysis

2011-11-23T08:39:41-06:00

Motor current signature analysis (MCSA) has proven to be a highly valuable predictive maintenance tool. Although it is a relatively young, rarely utilized technology, it is rapidly gaining acceptance in industry today. Mechanical faults related to belts, couplers, alignment and more are easily found through the use of a demodulated current spectrum.

MCSA is simply the process by which motor current readings are recorded and analyzed in the frequency domain. It has been around since 1985 and proven itself well over the years in locating rotor faults and air gap problems in motors.

The motor current signature is recorded in a time domain format. The current is represented in a graph form with the amplitude shown on the “Y” axis and the time on the “X” axis. The result is a typical current sinewave shown in Figure 1.

In order to analyze the data, a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) is

PdM software innovations lead to improved operating margins

2010-12-28T16:57:45-06:00

The capability of today's predictive software provides immediate answers, not merely data. By proactively using predictive maintenance, one automobile manufacturing plant realized savings of up to $112,000.

How a printing plant uses infrared thermography to detect issues

2010-12-20T07:47:19-06:00

This video shows how a printing plant utilizes infrared thermography cameras to detect issues on press equipment.

Progress Energy targets uptime, costs with infrared cameras

2010-12-15T07:38:03-06:00

See how FLIR's P640 infrared camera is used by Progress Energy, a power transmission company, for predictive and preventative maintenance to ensure constant supply.

Orlando to play host to 2011 infrared thermography conference

2010-12-15T07:35:57-06:00

Organized by the Infraspection Institute, IR/INFO is the most important conference of the year for infrared thermographers. This year, the infrared conference will be held at the Disney Boardwalk Conference Center in Orlando, Fla. For infomation, visit www.irinfo.org.

Infrared cameras provide benefits for utility companies

2010-12-15T07:33:29-06:00

This video shows FLIR cameras in the field and why infrared thermal imaging has become a key tool for predictive maintenance programs for utility firms everywhere.

FLIR unveils i5 thermal imaging camera

2010-12-08T12:45:35-06:00

This video provides an introduction to the i5 Thermal Imaging Camera from FLIR Systems, a tool for predictive maintenance and problem spotting.

Thermal imaging for electrical and mechanical maintenance

2010-11-02T08:12:48-05:00

Infrared thermography and condition monitoring at the zoo

2010-10-21T11:50:10-05:00

Think your workplace is a zoo? Try using predictive maintenance technologies in a real zoo.

Using thermal imaging for roof inspections

2010-09-17T14:35:25-05:00

How infrared thermal imaging is used in the utility industry

2010-09-16T10:04:17-05:00

This video shows your FLIR infrared thermal imaging tools are used in the utility industry.

Asset-based condition monitoring software for infrared cameras

2010-08-17T09:55:45-05:00

Condition RED fully integrates your infrared camera and analysis package to form an automated report generation system. Condition RED helps you manage your infrared predictive maintenance program by keeping track of your entire asset inventory in an easy-to-operate powerful database. Create infrared surveys in your own facilities using the power of this unique IR camera and asset management system.

An introduction to Extech infrared thermometer

2010-08-06T13:50:26-05:00

This video provides an introduction to the 42509 Color Alert Infrared Thermometer from Extech. This dual-laser IR thermometer has high/low alarms with a visual and audible indicator when the temperature exceeds or goes below the set temperature.

Performing infrared thermography on motors

2010-07-15T15:48:53-05:00

TEGG Services talks about using infrared thermography to perform predictive maintenance on motors.

Owens Corning employee chooses Fluke thermal imaging for PdM

2010-07-07T09:02:01-05:00

Hear what one Owens Corning employee says about how thermal imaging has helped them maintain their equipment, both electrical and mechanical, and why they chose Fluke thermal imagers to get the job done.

Using infrared thermography for tanks and vessels

2010-06-18T11:56:18-05:00

This presentation discusses how infrared thermography is used for tanks and vessels.

FLIR Systems acquires stock of Raymarine Holdings

2010-05-17T08:19:51-05:00

FLIR Systems Inc. announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement with the administrator of Raymarine plc to acquire all of the outstanding shares of its wholly owned subsidiary, Raymarine Holdings Limited. The transaction value of approximately $180 million includes repayment of all of Raymarine's indebtedness and approximately $24 million in proceeds to Raymarine plc which is equivalent to 20 pence per ordinary share. The acquisition represents the entire business operations of Raymarine and its subsidiaries.

FLIR HD thermal imaging system captures environmental disasters

2010-05-14T08:52:21-05:00

FLIR Systems Inc. on May 13 released electro-optic/infrared (EO/IR) footage from recent environmental disasters including the Icelandic volcano Eyjafjallajokull, and the Gulf of Mexico oil spill. Footage and additional images can be viewed at http://www.gs.flir.com/disaster/.

Poll finds challenges with PdM sustainability can overshadow successes

2010-04-01T08:11:22-05:00

Azima DLI, the leader and premier provider of predictive machine condition monitoring and analysis services, on April 1 announced the results of a survey aimed at gaining insight into the state of predictive maintenance and condition monitoring programs among U.S. plants. Overall findings show that while a majority (76 percent) of respondents is satisfied with current programs, more than half of those surveyed agree that it’s difficult to know exactly what solutions and tools are needed to maintain a successful program. Combined with insufficient staff, limited in-house expertise and poor training as the top factors negatively impacting results, plants must re-examine existing programs now in order to ensure sustainability and the ability to meet long-term productivity and reliability goals.

Fluke performs drop test on thermal imaging cameras

2010-03-24T08:00:33-05:00

Fluke Corporation performs a drop test on several infrared thermography cameras.

Access this 1-minute, 51-second video by clicking on the link below.

Detecting material accumulation in equipment with infrared

2010-03-16T09:42:15-05:00

Infrared technology is one of the most important tools that can be used in a successful predictive maintenance program. This technology is not just for finding abnormalities with electrical components and equipment based on elevated temperature; it can also find potential problems based on lower-than-normal temperatures. Locating material buildup in baghouse hoppers, coke gas lines and flue gas ducts are a few instances where you aren't looking for the hottest temperature, but instead, the coolest.

PdM analyst uncovers issues on 69 KV power line

2010-03-15T11:15:52-05:00

While performing an infrared and ultrasound inspection on the high-voltage power line connections, disconnects, fuses and transformers, as well as the electrical equipment and components, located in nine substations throughout the facility where he works, a predictive maintenance professional came across a potentially catastrophic situation.

ULIS to give talk on advances in uncooled infrared detectors

2010-03-05T08:39:12-06:00

ULIS, a leading infrared vision specialist making affordable uncooled thermal sensors for civilian and military applications, announced March 5 that it will give a presentation on the advances in uncooled infrared detectors at the SPIE Defense, Security and Sensing symposium, April 5-9, in Orlando, Fla.

Carlos to chair ASTM Committee on Non-Destructive Testing

2010-02-23T13:44:14-06:00

MISTRAS Group Inc. on February 23 announced the appointment of Mark Carlos to chairman of the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), E07 Committee on Non-Destructive Testing (NDT).

An introduction to vibration analysis, PdM

2010-02-17T10:38:10-06:00

Mike Anderson of Newark, Ohio-based Anderson Engineering describes the technologies of a predictive maintenance program and the benefits such a program can bring to the modern factory.

Access this 6-minute, 16-second video by clicking on the link below.

Overview on the benefits of thermography

2010-02-17T10:33:25-06:00

This short video from from Fluke outlines the benefits of infrared thermography.

Access this 2-minute, 51-second video by clicking on the link below.

Infrared thermographic study of a ball mill

2010-02-17T10:31:26-06:00

This video provides a thermographic study of the heat dissipation of associated equipment in a ball mill.

Access this 1-minute, 37-second video by clicking on the link below.

White roofs may successfully cool cities

2010-02-17T09:23:26-06:00

Painting the roofs of buildings white has the potential to significantly cool off cities and mitigate some impacts of global warming, results of a new study indicate.

Azima DLI solution targets machine condition monitoring programs

2010-02-08T08:30:55-06:00

Azima DLI, a leader and premier provider of predictive machine condition monitoring and analysis services, on February 8 announced a series of simplified, pre-packaged programs to ensure comprehensive equipment reliability and uptime results.

Predictive Service explains condition monitoring, reliability engineering solutions

2010-02-01T11:32:01-06:00

This video highlights the overall reliability, risk reduction and sustainability services provided by Predictive Service. PS provides global reliability engineering and condition monitoring (CM) with predictive maintenance technologies. All CM services are bundled with ViewPoint Web-based asset managment software. This video is presented by Dale P. Smith, CMRP.

Access this 3-minute, 2-second video by clicking on the link below.

Leveraging the power of IR cameras for condition monitoring

2010-01-21T15:01:58-06:00

With an increasing base of infrared camera users and applications, the challenge is to leverage the technology effectively. Proper use of infrared technology requires an understanding of the components and the fundamentals of the technology. Improve your infrared and condition monitoring efforts by reading this article.

How to manage a multi-technology condition monitoring program

2010-01-16T11:49:23-06:00

Managing a multi-technology condition monitoring program at a large mining operation was a challenging task, especially when there has been a cultural shift required to integrate the ideas of condition monitoring into an already complex maintenance strategy.

Infrared cameras help determine presence of water on moon

2009-11-16T00:00:00-06:00

Images provided by innovative short wave infrared (SWIR) cameras from Goodrich Corporation's ISR Systems team in Princeton, N.J. provided preliminary data that NASA scientists used to determine the presence of water on the moon. During a historic mission on October 9, 2009, a NASA rocket was launched into a crater near the moon's south pole; images from the SWIR cameras showed evidence of water in the post-crash debris plume.

The lunar crash was part of NASA's Lunar Crater Observation and Sensing Satellite (LCROSS) mission to search for water on

FLIR announces delivery of 100,000th infrared camera

2009-11-10T00:00:00-06:00

FLIR Systems announced the delivery of its 100,000th commercial-use infrared camera. The FLIR thermal imager was sold by Professional Equipment, a distributor of FLIR infrared cameras, to Bob Childs, owner of Bob the Inspector Inc. in nearby Green Valley, Ariz.

To commemorate the milestone, Childs and Professional Equipment were honored

An introduction to Fluke digital thermometers

2009-10-21T00:00:00-05:00

Stay cool when it gets hot. See Fluke digital thermometers in action throughout industrial facilities.

Access this 1-minute, 25-second video by clicking on the link below.

Details on the Flir i7 compact infrared camera

2009-10-21T00:00:00-05:00

Planet Extech shows off the Flir i7 at NECA

Applications include:

Preventive Maintenance — Thermal imaging is a valuable tool in preventive maintenance of electrical, mechanical and structural systems, able to help detect problems, prevent unscheduled downtime, guide needed corrective action and increase plant safety.

Utility Market — In the utility industry, failure is not an option.Thats why infrared thermal imaging has become a key tool for predictive maintenance programs for utility firms everywhere.

Energy Audits — Energy costs are increasing at a substantially alarming rate. Missing or low quality insulation, inadequate heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, poor air flow — all are typical problems that cause homes to waste energy.

Access this 2-minute, 39-second video by clicking on the link below.

NASA plants MIRICLE thermal imaging camera on moon

2009-10-17T00:00:00-05:00

History was made on Friday, October 9, when NASA sent not one but two spacecraft hurtling into the surface of the moon, leaving a Thermoteknix miniature thermal imaging camera permanently embedded in its own lunar crater.

At 12.30 BST, a 2,200-kilogram Centaur rocket stage slammed into the moon in a flurry of lunar dust, followed shortly after by a second unmanned spacecraft containing an array of sensors including a Thermoteknix MIRICLE TB2-30 infrared camera to record the impact. The Thermoteknix camera detected a minute flash of heat as the

Camera captures 1st thermal image of far side of moon

2009-10-06T00:00:00-05:00

Pioneering thermal imaging company Thermoteknix Systems Ltd. has captured the first thermal image of the far side of the moon. A Thermoteknix MIRICLE TB2-30 thermal camera was launched into space aboard NASA’s LCROSS mission to search for the presence of water on the moon.

LCROSS payload manager and chief scientist Anthony Colaprete contacted Thermoteknix to say that “the Thermoteknix camera provided the first thermal images of the far side of the moon and also images of earth and the moon from distances as great as 560,000 and 850,000 kilometers away, respectively. The camera has wo

FLIR, Sofradir will collaborate on dual-band military camera

2009-10-06T00:00:00-05:00

FLIR Systems Inc., a global leader in thermal imaging, infrared (IR) cameras and night vision systems and Sofradir, a leader in advanced infrared detectors for military, aerospace and commercial applications, on October 5 announced that FLIR Systems will be collaborating with Sofradir on state-of-the-art third-generation dual-band detectors and camera cores to create thermal cameras with enhanced capabilities for military and commercial applications.

Sofradir brings its industry-leading detector technology and mass production capacities, while FLIR will design cameras and insert them into both U.S. and international developed systems.

"FLIR Systems and Sofradir share

An intro to infrared thermography for mechanical applications

2009-09-23T00:00:00-05:00

Infrared thermography is the process of using a thermal imager to detect infrared radiation (heat) that is emitted by an object. The technology allows operators to validate normal operations and, more importantly, locate thermal anomalies (abnormal patterns of heat invisible to the eye) which indicate possible faults, defects or inefficiencies within a system or machine asset.

A few examples of where infrared is applied in industrial situations include:

Electrical Systems (faulty electrical connections or overloaded circuits)
Mechanical Equipment (abnormally warm motors or possible bearing failures)
Fluid Systems (line blockages, tank levels or pipe temperatures)
Building Applications (detect missing insulation, air infiltration or moisture damage)
Low-Slope Roofs (locate wet roof insulation)

While infrared imaging systems are relatively simple to use, interpreting images taken with this equipment can be far more complex and challeng

How power transmission company uses IR camera

2009-08-21T00:00:00-05:00

See how FLIR's P640 infrared camera is used by a power transmission company for predictive and preventative maintenance to ensure constant supply.

Access this 4-minute, 46-second video by clicking on the link below.

Transcat partners with FLIR in test & measurement market

2009-07-25T00:00:00-05:00

Transcat Inc., a leading global distributor of professional grade test, measurement and calibration instruments and accredited provider of calibration, parts inspection, production model engineering and repair services, has partnered with FLIR Systems Inc., a global leader in the design and manufacture of thermal imaging infrared cameras. This partnership expands Transcat’s product offering to include FLIR’s handheld infrared cameras and thermal imagers and reinforces Transcat’s reputation for being a leading distributor of the finest test and measurement brands.

ULIS quadruples production capacity of infrared detectors

2009-07-03T00:00:00-05:00

ULIS, a high-volume manufacturer of infrared detectors for low-cost IR cameras in industrial, professional, and security applications, announced July 2 that the company has expanded the production capacity of its microbolometers from 50,000 to 200,000 units per year. ULIS is augmenting its production capacity to meet growing trends for lower cost IR detectors used by trade professionals for application in thermometry. The ramp-up enables ULIS to service orders of unprecedented magnitude.

ULIS sees three market drivers: the emerging trend to add infrared capability to visible surveillance cameras (about 25 million are currently installed worldwide); government mandates for improve

FLIR cameras as useful predictive tool

2009-07-02T00:00:00-05:00

This FLIR video explores predictive maintenance activities in production facilities, system failure prevention, and the safety of non-destructive testing.

Access this 3-minute video by clicking on the link below.

Service recovers lost, stolen or missing infrared cameras

2009-06-18T00:00:00-05:00

FLIR Systems Inc on June 17 announced the introduction of ThermaTrak, an exclusive high-tech service to locate missing or stolen infrared cameras and thermal imagers. ThermaTrak from FLIR, developed with GadgetTrak, employs recovery software that pinpoints the geographic location of the lost, stolen or missing infrared camera. Additionally, the ThermaTrak software embedded in the camera tracks the IP address, hostname and even the Internet service provider (ISP) being used after the IR camera has gone missing or been stolen and is connected to the Internet.

Azima DLI partners with FLIR to enhance IR services

2009-06-11T00:00:00-05:00

Global condition monitoring services company Azima DLI on June 9 announced enhancements to its infrared thermography capabilities that combine the company’s WATCHMAN Reliability Services with industry leading imagers from FLIR Systems. With this enhanced offering, industrial customers gain access to both the most accurate and sophisticated thermal measurement technology and the world’s best team of infrared imagery experts.

The benefits of integrating lean concepts with infrared thermography

2009-06-03T00:00:00-05:00

Lean thinking is nothing new, nor many of its concepts, but the real value is in how these concepts are integrated into a total solution. Many companies today are either lean companies, or are utilizing lean thinking to maintain a competitive advantage in the market (for example: Dell, Southwest Airlines, FedEx). With the ever-changing demands that are placed on company resources, rapid changes in personnel because of downsizing and the demand to “do more with less” while increasing productivity and value, many companies have been applying lean thinking to the management of their maintenance programs.

Companies like Ford, General Motors, Boeing, WE Energies, Entergy, Hawaiian/Maui Electric, Florida Power and Light, and KEPRI have all established lean infrared programs and are able to better manage and maintain the real value of their IR programs while drastically increasing their return on investment.

Batch & Queue vs. Progressive Production

Maddox to lead IRISS training, business development

2009-04-01T00:00:00-05:00

IRISS Inc., manufacturer of the only world’s first and only industrial-grade infrared windows, on April 1 announced that Marv Maddox has joined the company as senior technical advisor. In his new position, Maddox will be responsible for IRISS Training and Business Development.

"Marv has a wealth of experience in providing and supporting the international distributor channel within the infrared thermography industry. We are so glad to have someone of his caliber join the IRISS team, and look forward to growing our international business channels

Stockton Infrared exec talks thermography

2009-02-10T00:00:00-06:00

Greg Stockton, president of Stockton Infrared, illustrates how infrared technology predicts equipment failures.

Access this 9-minute, 11-second video by clicking on the link below.

Sofradir to acquire infrared equipment firm Electrophysics

2008-10-06T00:00:00-05:00
Sofradir, a leading developer and manufacturer of advanced infrared (IR) detectors for military, space and industrial applications announced today that it will acquire Electrophysics, a U.S. developer of advanced high-performance IR equipment. Sofradir expects to complete the transaction within 30 days. The value of the transaction was not disclosed.
The acquisition is expected to accelerate the development of Sofradir and its subsidiary ULIS in the North American market. It will provide Sofradir and ULIS with a US platform to better serve the North American IR detector and module market, estimated at US$1 billion (approximately Eur 700 million), the largest in the world.

“This strategic foothold will boost Sofradir and ULIS’s growth by bringing us closer to customers in the US who will have ready access to our advanced cooled and uncooled IR technologies, known for their performance, reliability and producibility”

Thermography saves Eaton Group $250,000 per year

2008-08-19T00:00:00-05:00

Thermography, among other things, reveals and measures heat generation in machines and installations. It visualizes overheated components, and detects and prevents “creeping” breakdowns. It has become a familiar and accepted technique for preventive maintenance. What is less well known, however, is that the consistent, large-scale use of thermography can yield impressive savings.

The American Eaton Group produces a very wide range of industrial goods worldwide, and has a turnover of $9.8 billion. In Europe, its segments Eaton Fluid Power, Eaton Automotive and Eaton Truck are strongly represented. They focus on various systems and components for vehicles and for the aviation sector: from hydraulic systems for the new Airbus A380 to compressors for the engines of legendary Italian motorcycle maker Ducati. Eaton Electrical manufactures and modifies low- and medium-voltage distributors and installations for industrial customers.

Consistent inspect

Inspecting buildings with FLIR thermography

2007-11-29T00:00:00-06:00

Building thermography by FLIR shows how infrared thermography can be an extremely useful tool in inspecting leaks (air, heat, etc.) and water damage in and around roofs, windows, walls and other building components.

Learn more by visiting www.flirthermography.com.

Access this 4-minute, 32-second video by clicking on the link below.

Checking out the RAZIR thermography system

2007-11-14T00:00:00-06:00

This video provides an overview of the RAZIR, a full-featured infrared radiometric thermography system.

Access this 1-minute, 54-second video by clicking on the link below.

Infrared part of effective PM strategy at Weyerhaeuser

2007-10-24T00:00:00-05:00

If you can use a digital camera, you can learn to operate the Fluke Ti30 thermal imager. While the images from the Ti30 may not make it into the family photo album, they could very well save your business thousands of dollars when integrated into your overall preventive maintenance strategy. Just ask Dave Feniak at the Drayton Valley, Alberta, location of Weyerhaeuser Company, one of the world’s largest integrated forest products companies.

Feniak, the sawmill’s electrical maintenance supervisor, purchased the imager and, after some basic training on its use, went into the plant and found a problem – a big problem.

“We have been doing IR (infrared) scans routinely on a six- to nine-month basis since 1992 or so, and we usually find very few problems. I was looking at bearings in the planer mill and noticed a very hot spot in the far distance,” Feniak said.

The Ti30 has a built-in laser pointer, and once Feniak turned it on he found that heat was being generated about 15

Primer on FLIR infrared camera/thermal imager

2007-10-01T00:00:00-05:00

The InfraCAM infrared camera/thermal imager from FLIR is low cost and high quality. It is ideal for electricians, facility managers, energy auditors, substation/troubleshooting/customer service inspection crews, or anyone who wants to do a better job with their predictive and facility maintenance programs.

Access this 2-minute, 52-second video by clicking on the link below.

Infrared thermal imaging in the utility industry

2007-09-28T00:00:00-05:00

This video shows FLIR cameras in the field and why infrared thermal imaging has become a key tool for predictive maintenance programs for utility firms everywhere.

Access this 3-minute, 33-second video by clicking on the link below.

Persistence leads to hot-spot solution

2007-08-21T00:00:00-05:00

The Reliability in Action department features case studies submitted by our readers. To have your case study considered for inclusion in an upcoming issue, e-mail it to parnold@noria.com or mail it to Reliable Plant, P.O. Box 87, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538. If we publish your case study, we'll send you an official Reliable Plant T-shirt. This issue's case study was written by a predictive maintenance specialist at an electric company in the western United States:

In November 2005, a routine infrared survey located hot spots on isophase bus tube ducts. Initial thoughts led our team to believe that the heat was generated from corrosion-laden bolts. Therefore, recommendations to repair the hot spot dealt strictly with these bolts and the close surroundings. However, when initial recommendations failed to resolve the problem, the phenomenon and solution was in question. How could corrosion cause hot spots in these bolts and no hot

How good is your infrared program?

2007-08-21T00:00:00-05:00

In the past three columns, my colleague John Schultz has asked you, "How mature is your PdM program?" He explained the five levels of predictive maintenance maturity, from Level 1 (not engaged) all the way through Level 5 (best practices). Carrying forward through the next several issues, I will follow that train of thought, but at the individual technology level.

Let's discuss your infrared (IR) thermography program. Do you have a skeleton program that allows you to check a box on your goals and objectives sheet? If so, you most likely aren't seeing any significant results in terms of identifying the presence of electrical and mechanical (yes, I said mechanical) failure modes. On the other hand, do you have a professional, formal, engineered thermal inspection program that pays dividends on the electrical, mechanical and stationary equipment in your facility? Let's take a look and see which one you actually have.

Some Level 1 programs have an IR program on their high-voltage (

Integrating vibration and thermography in one handheld?

2007-07-15T00:00:00-05:00

(This is Part 4 of a series by Ray Garvey on “Changing the way we do thermography.” The previous article are available at www.reliableplant.com.)

Vibration analysis and thermography are both commonly used walk-around data collection systems used for proactive and predictive maintenance in industrial plants. Historically, these two technologies have been separate and distinct. Vibration analysis has been performed using vibration analyzers, while thermography has been accomplished using infrared imaging camera systems. What if the two technologies could come together in a single platform? What if other dynamic signal analysis techniques like ultrasonics, magnetic flux or electrical current analysis could also be done? What if other imaging analysis techniques like borescope inspection and other two-dimensional or three-dimensional imaging techniques could be integrated with the dynamic measurements? This article invites readers to respo

Harley-Davidson: Born to be ... predictable

2007-06-25T00:00:00-05:00

"Get your motor runnin'. Head out on the highway. Lookin' for adventure and whatever comes our way . . ." - lyrics from Steppenwolf's 1968 classic song "Born to Be Wild"

The Harley-Davidson image is the antithesis of predictable. No schedules. No plans. No boundaries. No cares. The unknown lies around the bend. Just strap on the helmet, fire up the engine and ride.

It's the motorcycle riding image - the lifestyle - that's embraced by customers and glorified in music, movies, advertisements and TV shows. Harley-Davidson is the off ramp from the same-old, punch-the-clock, 8-to-5, report-to-your-boss world.

The Harley-Davidson manufacturing image, however, is all about predictability. No surprises. No bottlenecks. No breakdowns. No downtime. What lies ahead is known. Just turn on the production equipmen

FLIR infrared meeting to be held Oct. 15-19 in Las Vegas

2007-05-31T00:00:00-05:00

Flir Systems, the global leader in infrared cameras, and ITC, the world’s premier Infrared Training Center, will host the eighth annual InfraMation Conference on October 15-19 in Las Vegas.

InfraMation, the world’s largest conference for pr

Managing motors and reliability

2007-05-22T00:00:00-05:00

Many are aware of the use of motor circuit analysis and infrared imaging in a predictive maintenance (PdM) program for motors. It is a program that, when performed properly, increases uptime, reliability and productivity, ultimately impacting the thing most managers want to see: lowered or stabilized maintenance costs. However, there may not be an understanding or awareness of the benefits and impact that an effective motor management system can have on that cost.

This article will show basic key elements for a motor management system and provide an understanding of why a motor management system is much more than just a reliability and testing program. In fact, motor reliability and testing are two key components that make a significant contribution to a motor management system.

How to sort infrared findings into a simple, meaningful report

2007-05-09T00:00:00-05:00

The operator performing an infrared inspection or thermographic survey collects a lot of valuable information while walking and observing. Some of these observations are collected using the powerful infrared imaging camera, while many others are simply things seen and noted by the person doing a survey. This article conveys practical ways to organize the findings into categories such as failure, operation and design. Within each category, the findings are each determined to be normal, low or high alert, and low or high fault. Faults are things that require further attention.

This is the third in a series of seven articles for Reliable Plant describing how the computer software inside today’s modern infrared cameras can do more than ever before to help the plant thermographer do his or her job far more efficiently and effectively. An automated thermographic inspection process resolves complex data into practical and understandable results or findings. A single

Snell Group launches online forum for thermographers

2007-05-09T00:00:00-05:00

The Snell Group on May 8 announced the launch of IRTalk.com, a new online community and learning forum dedicated to professional thermographers and the world of thermal imaging.

This new service from The Snell Group both updates and expands one of the most popular message boards in the industry. IRTalk.com debuts with four individual forums dedicated to a specific area of thermography: Applications, IR Classroom, Equipment Talk and Classifieds. Registration is free and open to everyone, enabling users to participate and respond to any of the online discussions.

Snell Infrared announces new Webinar schedule

2007-04-18T00:00:00-05:00

Snell Infrared is now offering a series of regularly scheduled Webinars designed for thermographers who use thermal imaging for both condition monitoring and building applications.

These Webinars combine the expertise of the industry's largest and most experienced independent knowledge provider with the convenience of an online training interface. Each seminar is taught by the same trusted experts for whom Snell Infrared is internationally recognized and are presented in real-time with an interactive question and answer period. The courses are approximately 75 minutes in length and are

RedShift, Imagize align to develop infrared solutions

2007-03-21T00:00:00-05:00

RedShift Systems, a leading developer of optical thermal imaging solutions, and Imagize LLC, a Berkeley, Calif.-based provider of fusion system-on-a-chip technology, on March 20 announced their collaborative effort to design and build the world’s first truly affordable infrared fusion camera solutions for security and other markets. RedShift contributes its optical thermal imaging-based Thermal Light Valve (TLV) technology and Imagize capitalizes on its unique technology which intelligently fuses thermal and visible imagery on a pixel-by-pixel basis in a small-size, low-power and lightweight package. The companies will work together in 2007 to deliver breakthrough IR fusion solutions for security and surveillance applications where true 24/7 day/night situational awareness is desired.

IR inspection helps avoid catastrophe

2007-03-09T00:00:00-06:00

The Reliability in Action department features case studies submitted by our readers. To have your case study considered for inclusion in an upcoming issue, e-mail it to parnold@noria.com or mail it to Reliable Plant, P.O. Box 87, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538. If we publish your case study, we'll send you an official Reliable Plant T-shirt. Here is this issue's highlighted contribution:

On a routine quarterly infrared inspection of plant electrical power distribution equipment, a high-voltage switch for a transformer was found arcing to the insulation board. A quick and effective response to the dangerous condition avoided a catastrophe at the plant.

The environment at the plant is very humid and the physical assets are 30 years old. The quarterly infrared inspections of electrical distribution equipment routinely reveal significant problems that were not present in the previous inspection.

During one such infrared inspection over the summer, a 12,500-volt disconnect

IR: In-camera training and certification

2007-02-12T00:00:00-06:00

Do you ever wish that your thermography trainer would walk along with you and answer questions while you are in the field doing an infrared survey or route? Now that would be real on-the-job training! In a classroom situation, you have to imagine what the real world is like. Wouldn't it be better to take classroom training out to the field? What if there was a way to ask your infrared camera a question and it could tell you the answer? Let's go one step farther. What if the infrared camera could ask you, the thermographer, a question to see if you understand what you must know to do your job, and if there was something you didn't understand, the camera could tell you all about it?

Infrared imagers are more capable, less expensive and easier to use than ever. Technical advances over the past 20 years have enabled more people, having less training, to walk through plants doing infrared surveys. This article shows how very important it is for training and testing to be included in the firm

LumaSense Technologies to acquire Mikron Infrared

2007-02-09T00:00:00-06:00

Mikron Infrared Inc. announced February 9 that it has signed a definitive agreement with LumaSense Technologies Inc. to merge Red Acquisition Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of LumaSense, with and into the company. Under the terms of the merger agreement, the holders of Mikron common stock will receive $11.50 per share in cash for their shares, which represents a 17.6 percent premium above the February 8 closing price. The transaction is valued at approximately $65 million.

Commenting on the announcement, Gerald D. Posner, chief executive officer of Mikron, stated, “I am extremely pleased that Mikron is becoming part of LumaSense, which is building a world-class sensor company, from both a shareholder and employee perspective. The all-cash offer at a 17.6 percent premium to market represents a full value for the company based on r

NFPA70E, arc flash, and safe and efficient thermography practices

2007-01-15T00:00:00-06:00

Estimates indicate that 10 to 15 serious arc flash incidents – those that result in burn injuries requiring treatment in a burn center – occur each day in the U.S., so it is not surprising that awareness of the hazards associated with arc flash continues to grow. Concerns about operator safety in the event of an arc flash are causing inspectors of high-voltage switchgear to adopt new practices. We will examine the impact of new safety practices – including infrared transparent windows and PPE (personal protective equipment) – on the use of thermography inspection.

What is an Arc Flash?
An Arc flash is essentially a bolt of lightning that occurs around energized electrical equipment. It can occur spontaneously and is often triggered simply by the movement of air when an electrical enclosure is opened. The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) has recognized the significant hazard of arc flash and is attempting to protect workers via t

Snell Infrared to offer new webinar service in 2007

2006-11-16T00:00:00-06:00

Snell Infrared plans to offer a regular series of webinars starting in 2007 geared toward thermographers of all levels and covering topics that range from basic heat transfer theory to more advanced infrared applications and inspection techniques.

Webinars from Snell Infrared are brief online educational seminars that run from one to two hours in length and allow maintenance professionals to expand their infrared knowledge base beyond training without having to travel hundreds of miles or miss valuable time at their plant or office.

IR: What's a survey? What's a route?

2006-11-03T00:00:00-05:00

This is the first in a series of articles addressing the application of modern infrared cameras to in-plant thermography. This particular article answers the question "What is the difference between a survey and a route?"

Routes were first introduced into plant thermographic inspection procedures in 1993. Route-based data collection is commonly used for walkaround vibration analysis, preventive maintenance inspections and other step-by-step procedures. This sequential process is intended to collect thermal information by periodically inspecting the same point on an equipment or machinery asset. An underlying database is used to track and trend problems and corrective actions. The in-field inspection system includes equipment information and fault tree logic that prompts the thermographer through a process. The result is a fully documented inspection with automatic reporting.

Many infrared thermographers are inclined to use a survey-based inspection approach instead of, or in ad

What's your IR IQ?

2006-05-31T00:00:00-05:00

The world of thermography is expanding faster than ever before, with new applications, markets and cameras. More and more maintenance practitioners are putting this remarkable technology to use as one of the tools in their pouch. As this trend grows, infrared (IR) camera suppliers have responded with great new products that are lighter, smaller, easier to use and less expensive than ever imagined.

One thing that has not changed, though, is the need to have a solid basic knowledge, grounded in experience, in order to successfully interpret the images produced by these remarkable cameras. Unfortunately, many believe they can skip over this essential step and jump right to being an “expert.”

Fluke unveils free thermography training module

2006-04-27T00:00:00-05:00
Fluke Corporation, a leader in handheld electronic test and measurement technology, announced the addition of a new module on thermography and thermal imaging applications to its Education Partnership Program. The module, available free to educators, provides more than two dozen application notes, case studies and training articles, a PowerPoint presentation with speaker notes, and a poster illustrating common thermography measurements.
The Fluke Education Partnership Program combines a wealth of educational materials and application information with product discounts. Entire modules or individual components can be selected from the Educators Portal 24 hours a day, seven days a week, or ordered on CD. Educators from accredited schools and apprenticeship programs who enroll in the program receive 25 percent off list price on Fluke tools for use in the classroom and labs. Educators may also order products for students. Orders may be placed through an authorized Fluke distributor using

Infrared detector resolution: How important is it?

2006-02-13T00:00:00-06:00

Until recently, most buyers of infrared imaging cameras had to make a budgeting choice between a low-resolution 160x120-pixel camera or no camera at all, but they soon learned they missed a lot at low resolution. Starting at about $25,000 and going up from there, professional high-resolution 320x240-pixel cameras were too costly for anyone who was not a full-time thermographer or not working for a company that could afford to buy expensive tools that might be underutilized.

That changed in 200