IR/INFO Proceedings 2004

List of articles contained in the IR/INFO 2004 Proceedings:

The 8 Discipline Approach to Problem Solving

Bill Arnott, Apex Infrared

ABSTRACT

As professional contract thermographers or in-house maintenance staff we are often asked, “Why do we keep having the same failures in our equipment? Why does this take so long? Why are costs so high?”. Understanding and knowing how to get to the root cause of problems is critical to reducing the frequency of problems and ideally to prevent those problems from ever reoccurring. Solving problems effectively demands that a disciplined approach be used. This paper outlines a process known as 8D problem solving and how it applies to a predictive maintenance program.

Bill Arnott is a certified 8D trainer and team facilitator and has utilized the process to successfully implement change and to eliminate and reduce costs in many different applications. He will take you through the process spending time to explain the pitfalls that can cause ineffective solutions to be implemented. A variety of problem solving tools will also be explained.

O Tempora! O Mores!

Oliver F. Beauchemin, Accolade Group

ABSTRACT

Reflections on what a web site should contain and how it can promote your business. The perception in the marketplace that your web site generates – good or bad? What your web site can tell you about your business. We will conclude by looking at THIS web site and raising some questions you should ask about YOUR web site.

Tips, Tricks & Shortcuts for Exception™ 2000

Sharon Brebner, Infraspection Institute

Automation Tips and Techniques for Growing Your Infrared Program

Scott Cawlfield, Logos Computer Solutions, Inc

Quick Guide – Windows Mobile Software and Pocket PC’s

Fred Colbert, Colbert Infrared Services, Inc.

ABSTRACT

Today, mobilizing Thermographers with Pocket PCs is benefiting the infrared industry in ways never imagined just a few years ago. Its current impact has shown up “on, and in” IR cameras that are purchased for IR PdM inspections, as well as advanced IR PdM inspection databasesand on stand-alone Pocket PCs coupled with bar code scanners for automated data entry and retrieval. The future has never looked brighter for automated inspection data collection and report generation methods allowing Thermographers to spend less time typing up reports, and getting back to their other tasks.

This paper covers the benefits to the Thermographer and the IR program manager of utilizing Pocket PCs for standardized and automated high quality data collection, retrieval, reconciliation, and report generation. An emphasis is placed on professional accountability because without a system in place, it is impossible to ensure that something did not get missed, and no one can afford missing a single problem that can lead to a catastrophic failure.

Secure Plant Infrastructure through Remote Substation Monitoring

Paul Czerepuszk & Corey Mapley

ABSTRACT

This presentation will examine new developments in infrared technology that have led to the introduction of advanced infrared camera solutions for remotely monitoring substations and electrical vaults. Thermographers in the utility industry can now “view” their substations through hard wire and wireless connections to on-site IR cameras.

Infrared camera manufacturers are adopting the latest in connectivity options, making it possible to remotely monitor and assess substation and vault conditions, for example, determining in real-time if a transformer is developing a thermal problem visually checking the status of an open door alarm, etc. IR cameras with built-in intelligence can autonomously react to programmable thermal parameters with broad alarming capabilities and without the need for ancillary computers.

This presentation describes the integration of Web-based applications and operating systems with “smart” IR cameras, which enable personnel to remotely access and control a camera using a Web browser and IP addressing to capture thermal and visual data for analysis and archiving, change embedded camera control parameters and even control camera position anywhere they can access the Internet.

Using Sound Imaging to Enhance your Diagnosis

Mark Goodman, UE Systems, Inc.

ABSTRACT

Thermographers have often used using Imaging techniques. Ultrasonic inspectors can employ this concept as well, but with different tools. This paper will discuss ultrasonic imaging processes used to enhance a diagnosis. Such techniques include a mental process called Audiolizing, spectral analysis software and data management software. While relying on sound properties alone can be subjective, by incorporating analytical methods such as spectral analysis software, inspectors are able to increase their diagnostic accuracy and provide an element of objectivity to the process. Descriptions and examples of these techniques will be included.

IR Thermography as a Tool for the Pest Management Professional

Jon L. Grossman, Hi-Tech Inspections, Inc.

ABSTRACT

For years the pest Management Professional has relied on visual and manual inspections to locate insect pest infestations. As building materials have improved, the ability to locate pest problems has become more difficult since building materials are often able to mask the existence of pest infestation. Additionally, these improved building materials have contributed to the pest problem by providing a convenient food and nesting source.

Within the past five years, the Pest Management Industry has become aware that IR thermography can aid in the detection of pest infestation by detecting evidence of latent moisture within structures. This paper discusses the use of thermal imaging to detect thermal patterns associated with insect infestation, verification of data and special challenges associated with the inspection process.

Electricity Conservation Technology– A Revolutionary Way to Save Power, Money and Reduce Pollution

Paul Grover, Kilawatt Partners

ABSTRACT

For years energy conservation has meant sitting in a cold dark room. Now it means being smart by using only what you need. Once you learn how to use electricity wisely, you can take control of your electricity use and eliminate costly waste.

When we reduce electricity use, we also slash climate-changing CO2 emissions from the power plants that burn fossil fuels to produce electricity. The result is that everyone benefits both locally and globally.

This paper delineates the critical difference between energy efficiency and energy conservation. It summarizes 3 years of research, development and case studies that have produced electricity reductions of up to 40% in small businesses with little or no capital expense. This is the first public presentation of this groundbreaking research.

INFRARED THERMOGRAPHY IN THE MARINE INDUSTRY

Skip Handlin, Handlin Preventive Maintenance Services, Inc.

ABSTRACT

Infrared thermography is a widely accepted PPM technology within land based facilities. Although less widely known, thermography may also be applied to electrical and mechanical systems of stationary and mobile marine systems. In addition to saving money and increasing uptime, thermograophy can play a crucial function in maintaining the safety and reliability of marine facilities where system failure could lead to catastrophic loss of a vessel, or its crew. This paper will discuss applications, safety issues, similarities and differences from land-based thermography and other interesting considerations in performing infrared inspections for the marine industry.

IR Sightglasses & Ports in Electrical Switchgear Enclosures

Antony Holliday, Hawk IR

ABSTRACT

The installation of infrared sightglasses & ports is a cost-effective solution to the dangers faced when performing an infrared survey of exposed, live electrical equipment. The one-time cost of installation is more than offset by the increase in coverage and efficiency of in-place infrared routines. However, the selection of IR Sightglass or Ports must not only meet the requirements of IR imaging, but also of the National Electric Code NFPA 70, IEEE and the requirements set forth by OSHA.?

This paper explores key consideration in the selection of infrared sightglasses & ports, and includes illustrative examples in several different applications.

LIABILITY: WHERE DOES IT COME FROM AND WHERE DOES IT END?

Robert J. Incollingo, Esq.

ABSTRACT

The law measures and appoints responsibility for the harm we do in our private affairs and in our business dealings. Liability – the risk of meeting legal responsibility – is the very substance of the “legal landscape” through which we all must travel as businesspeople and members of a society ruled by law. The law identifies the sources of liability in our contractual and personal relationships, and in our intentional and negligent misconduct.

We may assume liability voluntarily, or have it unknowingly imposed by law. In each instance, methods for avoiding, minimizing and shifting liability are available; each has costs and benefits, downside and upside risks. This paper proposes to map the sources and limits of legal liability and offer helpful tips for controlling risk. On the legal landscape, liability cannot always be avoided, but it can be managed, and it helps if you see it coming.

Temperature Measurement of Plastic Injection Molding Dies

James M. Lies, Infrared Predictive Maintenance

ABSTRACT

Thermographers who are asked to measure targets of low emittance with a particular level of accuracy will find hardships due to variable or multiple reflected temperatures, varying angles of view, etc. This is typically the case when measuring the surface of plastic injection molding tools. This paper examines these problems, presents solutions and describes an actual methodology used to measure these tools with sufficient accuracy to solve design and production

On-Line Condition Assessment of Power Transformers Using Acoustic Emission (AE)

Arturo Nunez, Quality Services Laboratories

ABSTRACT

Power transformers are among the most expensive pieces of equipment in an electrical substation. Failure of these devices involves not only the cost of the replacement (in case of a catastrophic failure) or repair, but also damage to adjacent equipment, and out of service losses/penalties.

Acoustic Emission (AE) is a technique used to diagnose the condition of the power transformer without taking the unit out of service and without modifying its operating conditions.

This presentation explains the basics of this technique and shows several case studies illustrating its usefulness in assessing the condition of in-service transformers.

Advanced Spectral Analysis

Kim Osterman, PdMA

Calibration of Radiometric Equipment

Michael R. Sharlon, ACS Calibrations

ABSTRACT

To ensure measurement accuracy, infrared radiometers must be periodically calbrated. Simply stated, the practice of comparing one article to another better-defined article is calibration. Although thermographers frequently cite and discuss calibration, there is confusion as to its application and meaning with respect to radiometric instruments. This paper discusses the art and science of calibrating infrared instruments, calibration reference sources and maintaining records that are traceable to known standards.

Aerial Infrared Applications

Gregory R. Stockton, AITscan Division, Stockton Infrared Thermographic Services, Inc.

ABSTRACT

Aerial infrared applications can be divided into two types, those where a straight-down view and/or a large area view is needed and those where long distances must be covered in a limited amount of time. Selection of aircraft, aircrew, navigational aids, infrared imaging system, data acquisition and image processing system are all important to a successful survey. This paper focuses on ongoing advances in methodology, platform and equipment required to produce high quality data for the end-user.

Gregory R. Stockton is President of Stockton Infrared Thermographic Services, Inc. The company’s AITscan (Aerial Infrared Thermographers) division operates nine fixed-wing aircraft and one rotor-wing aircraft, performing many different aerial infrared services in the US, Canada, Central and South America. Greg has twenty-four years experience in the construction industry, specializing in facilities construction, maintenance and energy-related technologies. He has been performing infrared surveys since 1989.

Monitoring High Temperature Process Heaters

Robert K. Weigle, Infraspection Institute

ABSTRACT

Process heaters are a critical component in the refining of crude oil. Traditional means of monitoring these high temperature vessels have frequently been more art than science, often relying on highly subjective analyses and/or frequently inaccurate thermocouple data.

By utilizing an imaging radiometer specifically designed for heater inspections, valuable performance information can be obtained for operating heaters. In the hands of a knowledgeable engineering team, accurate infrared data can be utilized to significantly increase heater throughput while helping to ensure safe operation of the heater.

This paper discusses the use of infrared thermography for online monitoring of operating crude heaters and the special challenges associated with this application.

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