Heat is the transfer of electromagnetic energy, in the infrared band, through either conduction, convection, or radiation between two or more substances. The measurement of the transfer of this infrared energy is called temperature. There is no heat or temperature without this energy transfer. Infrared energy is invisible to the human eye but can be felt , sensed, and measured

The infrared camera evaluates and converts heat energy into meaningful temperatures. Components in various states of failure will emit more heat as a direct result of more energy dissipated into the component.

This extra energy is caused by increased friction in mechanical devices, higher resistance in electrical devices, differences in thermal properties between two or more materials, and thermal patterns caused by insulation loss or air infiltration/exfiltration.


Just as doctors use temperature in disease diagnosis, infrared thermography allows us to diagnose and pinpoint problems based on the temperature differential of areas. Temperature provides an excellent indication of the condition of equipment, processes, and surrounding environment.

It is the ability of the thermal camera to "see" these early stages of increasing temperature that makes thermography such a valuable technology.

Advantages of a Predictive Maintenance Program

PdM
Program		 Equipment
Failure		 Possible
Results		 Costs to
Client		 Costs to
Insurer
Yes · Most likely detected · Scheduled maintenance · Cost of inspection

· Maintenance costs

 · None
No Likely not detected · Unscheduled shutdown

· Damage to Critical.Equipment

· Safety hazards to personnel

· Cost of damage repairs

· Lost revenue due to unscheduled shutdown

· Potential liability for personal injury

· Property damage claims

· Possible health.insurance claims