List of articles contained in the IR/INFO 2011 Proceedings:
Standard for Infrared Inspection of Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic and Composite Material Hulls of Recreational Yachts & Small Craft (Y&SC)
Allinson, John (Jack) N.,
BSc, AMS®
Level III Certified Infrared Thermographer
J.N. Allinson Associates, Inc.
Allinson Infrared Inspection Services, Inc.
222 University Blvd. North #2
Jacksonville, FL 32211
904-721-2177
Abstract:
For several years, infrared thermography has been used as a nondestructive test method for composite materials used in the aerospace and marine industries.
Used properly, infrared thermography can detect thermal signatures associated with defects such as delamination, voids, and water intrusion.
Until recently, one of the challenges faced by marine surveyors was the absence of a formal standard for the application of thermography to marine vessels.
This paper will discuss the new Infraspection Institute Standard for Infrared Inspection of Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic and Composite Material Hulls co-authored by Mr. Allinson.
Also presented will be a case study involving moisture intrusion in the hull of a recreational yacht.
Wireless Monitoring of Electrical Enclosures with Case Studies
Baier, Fred
Level III Certified Infrared Thermographer
Delta T Engineering, LLC
136 Main Street
Metuchen, NJ 08840
877-321-0576
Abstract:
Thermography is a proven technology for detecting elevated temperatures within operating electrical distribution systems.
Typically performed on an annual basis, infrared inspections can detect evidence of overheating caused by loose/deteriorated connections, overloaded circuits, and imbalanced loads.
While infrared inspections can be valuable in helping to prevent unexpected failures, they provide a single “snapshot”, leaving the subject components unmonitored for the balance of the year.
Recent advances in technology have resulted in wireless sensors that monitor for the same types of defects that are detectable by thermal imaging.
When permanently installed on electrical enclosures, these sensors can provide year-round monitoring of electrical system components and can immediately alert personnel when problems arise.
This paper will discuss the theory and application of the Delta T Alert monitoring system and how it can be used to complement and enhance the effectiveness of an existing infrared inspection program within commercial office buildings.
Installation and set-up procedures of the system will be discussed along with actual case studies.
Go Green or Go Home!
Bethel, Noah P., CMRP,
Vice President of Product Development
PdMA Corporation
5909C Hampton Oaks Parkway
Tampa, FL 33610
813-621-6463, ext. 124
www.pdma.com
Abstract:
In the wake of sweeping energy regulations and increased competitive strategies, aging facilities are no longer being allowed to perform at sub-energy efficient levels.
Ultimatums have been handed down to facilities to either increase their energy efficiency levels or face the inevitable plant closure possibility as corporations choose which facilities are too costly to maintain.
For those working at these aging facilities, asset reliability and energy efficiency have never been more important.
This paper will follow the efforts of multiple facilities within a corporation to increase their productivity through reliability and efficiency in an effort to survive the corporate axe.
Thermal Patterns Associated with Infrared Inspection of Electrical Systems
Brady, James
Level III Certified Infrared Thermographer
Brady Infrared Inspections, Inc.
935 Pine Castle Court
Stuart, FL 34996
772-288-9884
jbrady@bradyinfrared.com
www.bradyinfrared.com
Abstract:
Throughout the evolution of infrared technology for predictive maintenance applications,
electrical system inspections remain the cornerstone of the industry.
Despite being somewhat overshadowed in recent years by building science applications, the demand for infrared inspections of electrical systems remains high.
Accurate diagnosis begins with understanding electricity and what causes thermal anomalies.
This presentation will cover several types of defects that may be encountered during an infrared inspection including those associated with compromised connections, overload conditions, load imbalances, harmonics problems, and inductive heating.
Examples of these problems come from a multitude of settings including industrial, manufacturing, utility, and commercial sites.
The theory behind each type of defect, its thermal signature, and how to accurately confirm each will be discussed.
No Foot, No Horse –
Shedding Light on Equine Hoof Problems with Thermal Imaging
DeLeonardo, Michael S. Jr.
C. J. F. & R.J.F.
DeLeonardo Farrier Service
824 Boronda Road
Salinas, CA 93907
831-442-9154
www.deleonardo
horseshoeing.com
Robson, Joanna, DVM
Inspiritus Equine, Inc.
8 Golden Gate Circle
Napa, CA 94558
707-738-7110
jrobsondvm@inspiritusequine.com
Abstract:
Everything in life has to start with a good foundation, for a horse it all starts with the foot.
It is our intent with this paper to show you some of the many ways we have integrated this technology into a farrier’s practice and how we have been able to shed light on common problems like imbalanced hooves, abscesses, and laminitis.
ABC’s of Media Mojo
English, Ken,
Social Media Marketing Consultant
EnglishPlusOnline
19832 Bobolink Drive
Miami, FL 33015
305-335-4857
www.EnglishPlusOnline.com
Abstract:
Most businesses recognize the importance of having a website.
In the rapidly evolving world of the internet, having a static website is not enough.
Today’s websites must be interesting, dynamic and easy to find.
There are eleven key elements of social media you can use to get your website noticed.
This presentation will focus on the four basic building blocks – audio, video, blogs, and micro-blogs – with the emphasis on how you can create a video using only a digital camera and a free video production site called Animoto.
Case Study: Investigation into Abnormal Behavior of High Voltage Bushing Connections
Fallbright, Joel,
PdM & Motor Component Engineer
PPL Susquehanna, LLC
769 Salem Boulevard
Berwick, PA 18603
570-542-1673
Abstract:
A good thermography program is essential to reliable power generation and distribution. Routine thermographic surveys identified hot spots on the connections to the high voltage bushings on the main output transformers at the Susquehanna generating station.
These hot spots were different than those found in the past with infrared. The connection temperatures would be elevated one day and normal the next.
This paper will show how continuous monitoring of the connections gave insight into an on-going condition and allowed continued generation until a planned outage.
Repair of the connections validated the infrared results and provided insight for future work.
Enhanced Diagnostics through Ultrasound Imaging:
How it helps Identify Problems in Electrical and Mechanical Equipment
Goodman, Mark, VP Engineering
UE Systems, Inc.
914-592-1220
800-223-1325
Abstract:
Ultrasound and Infrared are complementary technologies for generalized PdM activities. Ultrasound will “hear” what infrared might not “see”.
Many IR thermographers are now incorporating ultrasound scans of enclosed electric cabinets as part of their inspection protocol to avoid potential arc flash incidents.
Historically, predictive activities for both technologies cover more than just electrical inspection; they might include inspection of bearings, gears, and valves to name a few. While sound quality and trending amplitude changes are often the most common methods of identifying issues ultrasonically, there are many situations that will call for more detailed analysis to help determine the severity and type of problem.
Ultrasound instruments are now capable of adding sound imaging through spectral analysis to enhance the diagnostic process.
This presentation will examine ultrasound imaging for electrical, mechanical and valve leak diagnostics.
The principles of spectral analysis as it relates to ultrasound inspection will be explained and clarified through case histories and actual examples of faulty bearings, gears, valve leaks, and electric emissions.
Why I Started My IR Inspection Business
Griggs, Mark
Griggs Thermal Imaging
2160 Autumn Place
Columbus, Ohio 43223
614-272-8266
Abstract:
From the first time that I was exposed to infrared thermography I was hooked on it.
Working for one of the big three auto companies as a Journeyman millwright, I would routinely escort a contractor that was hired to do our quarterly infrared survey on electrical and mechanical equipment.
After a while my company decided to obtain their own camera in order to conduct infrared inspections using in-house personnel.
I was one of two people selected for Level I and Level II training.
Utilizing information from our in-house infrared inspections, our company was able to realize some really big cost savings and save a lot of downtime.
We even used it to help ensure there were not any hot spots after a fire at the plant, as well as locating roof drains that had been damaged during a roof resurfacing.
After retiring from the auto industry, I attended an IR/INFO conference in Orlando. What I learned there helped me decide to start my own infrared inspection business.
This paper will discuss my experience with thermography prior to, and after starting my own inspection firm along with advice to others seeking to start their own infrared inspection business.
Demystifying the Art and Science of Finding Moisture in Buildings Using Thermal Imaging
Hopkins, Peter
Level II Certified Infrared Thermographer
United Infrared
8472 Adams Farm Road
Randleman, NC 27317
760-593-2339
Abstract:
Although thermal imaging has long been used in the identification of moisture problems in buildings, it is often not the primary tool utilized due to a perception of high imager costs.
Over the past few years, prices on infrared imagers have been tumbling due to the introduction of the microbolometer sensor, mass production, and economies of scale.
At present, even entry level IR cameras can perform quite well when it comes to moisture mapping. Due to the effects of evaporative cooling, an IR camera can complement the forensic moisture audit by quickly and non-destructively identifying the location and size of moisture damaged areas.
This presentation describes how we were able to incorporate this technology into our business and reviews some of the many cases in which we successfully detected mositure using infrared thermography.
Getting to the “Core” of Your Generator Stator Problems
James, Sonny
Owner
Senior Instructor &
Managing Director
Level III Certified Infrared Thermographer
NDE Institute of Trinidad, Ltd. / Thermal Diagnostics Ltd.
15 Robertson Street,
Les Efforts East
San Fernando, Trinidad & Tobago, West Indies
868-653-9343
868-657-6572
Abstract:
The condition of a power generation plant’s generator stator cores is an important consideration any time repair work is to be carried out on a generator.
Downtime of the generator must be kept to a minimum and there is no room for errors or unforeseen problems prior to start up. Finding all areas on the stator core that can result in premature failure is imperative before the unit is reassembled and put back into service.
This paper will discuss several case studies where both loop tests using Thermography and ELSID tests were carried out on gas and steam generator stator cores for the purpose of identifying laminations and winding shorts.
This paper also discusses the method of repairs and re-inspections that were performed after problems were identified.
With Thermographic images of actual stator core faults both before and after repairs and comparisons with ELSID testing, this paper will benefit all in the generator maintenance and inspection field.
It also serves as a good training tool for thermographers who wish to perform this type service.
Dissolved Gas Analysis: A Valuable Diagnostic Tool
Koehler, David,
Education Manager
Weidmann Diagnostic Solutions
3867 Thousand Oaks Circle
Salt Lake City, UT 84124
801-272-4579
Abstract:
Transformers are the single most costly assets in a distribution system.
Transformers contain no moving parts and are thus one of the most reliable components of a power system.
Consequences of a transformer failure, financial and outages, can be very severe. Diagnostic testing of transformers minimizes the chance of an unplanned outage.
Transformers are subjected to both thermal and electrical stresses that are manageable within the design criteria.
Sometimes these stresses exceed the design criteria. If this happens the energy released will result in a partial destruction of solid and/or liquid insulation materials.
The low molecular compounds and gases, which are produced by these faults, are soluble in transformer fluid. Dissolved Gas Analysis, DGA, is a laboratory procedure that identifies and quantifies the concentrations of these “fault gases” dissolved in the oil.
Concentrations of gases and gas concentration ratios are used to characterize the existing faults. Early detection of incipient faults has “saved” many transformers.
DGA will be thoroughly discussed and will include the following components: Fault Gas Origins, Interpretation of Fault Gas Data Key Gas Correlations, Ratio Methods, Graphical Methods, and Case Histories.
What Medical Thermography Identified in the Past Year at Our Small Imaging Center
James, Sonny
IACT Certified Clinical Thermographic Technician
Managing Director
Level III Certified Infrared Thermographer
Thermal Diagnostics Limited – Medical Division
15 Robertson Street,
Les Efforts East
San Fernando, Trinidad & Tobago, West Indies
868-653-9343
868-657-6572
Abstract:
Digital Medical Thermal Imaging has been around for several decades and has proven itself time and time again to patients and doctors.
The benefits of such imaging to both the physician and patient are invaluable when a diagnosis via conventional structural imaging and standard physical examinations are inconclusive or do not provide relief to the patient.
This paper will discuss the benefits of Medical Thermography for both men and women from head to toe.
It will also discuss womens’ breast imaging and why all women should get imaged with thermography.
Several intriguing case studies that the author came across at his Medical Thermography imaging center over the past year will be presented as well.
Infrared Images with Quantified Electrical Load & Moisture Damage Data Combined
Kochanek, Ed,
Infrared Training Center
FLIR Systems, Inc.
25 Esquire Road
North Billerica, MA 01862
978-901-8000
Abstract:
Thermal imagers have long been used to detect evidence of problems within a wide variety of systems and structures including electrical distribution systems and building envelopes.
In order to fully quantify the severity of problems other information is often critical such as electrical load data and moisture levels. Recent developments now permit wireless transmission of vital diagnostic data from clamp-on ammeters and moisture meters directly to the infrared camera.
This paper will discuss how FLIR’s revolutionary MeterLink technology can help thermographers to document electrical load conditions including energy consumption and load imbalances.
This paper will also show how building inspectors and restoration specialists can quantify and document moisture levels in building structures, providing clients and insurance companies with quantified recommendations for dry times and damage estimates.
US Navy Leading the Way in Switchboard Protection
Kurek, Rick
Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA)
2341 Jefferson Davis Highway
Arlington, VA 22202
202-781-1274
Abstract:
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), an arc flash is defined as “a dangerous condition associated with the release of energy caused by an electric arc.”
An arc is a high-impedance discharge of electricity through the air that causes light and heat. The temperature of an arc can reach up to 6000 degrees C. Most switchboard components can only withstand these temperatures for about 0.25 seconds before sustaining damage.
Arcing Faults can cause damage to power distribution systems since the inherent operational characteristics of the circuit breakers may not isolate the affected conductors for several seconds due to the relatively low current levels identified with this type of fault.
This paper will discuss how the US Navy is leading the way in Arc Fault Detection (AFD) Technology and has teamed up with Johns Hopkins APL to develop AFD Systems designed to detect and extinguish high resistance arcing faults.
Use of these systems has significantly reduced, if not eliminated any significant damage, from Arc Faults in switchboards and load centers protected by AFD Systems.
The Role of Standards & Calibration in IR Thermography
Peacock, G. Raymond
President
Temperatures.com, Inc.
Southampton, PA 18966
215-325-1450
Twitter: MrPyrometer
Abstract:
Standards play a big role in infrared thermography, but there are several kinds of them.
Some are about the thermal imaging instruments themselves, their calibration and performance; and others are about using the instruments.
There are still others about the training and qualifications for the people who use thermal imagers.
Standards and practices vary in different places in the world.
This tutorial describes some of the key ones and how they relate to calibration of imagers and the regular use of infrared imaging equipment.
Pioneering Large Building Air Leakage Testing
Pearson, Jack
Building Science Specialist
BCRA
2106 Pacific Avenue, Suite 300
Tacoma, WA 98402
253-627-4367
Abstract:
Over the past three years, the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has
been phasing new building air-tightness requirements into Requests for Proposals
(RFPs) for new construction on Army installations around the country.
This requirement dictates that all new buildings be designed and constructed to include a continuous air barrier that must be tested for air leakage and pass a specific rating prior to building turnover.
The USACE testing protocol and each new RFP specify that infrared thermography be used to assess the continuity of the air barrier and locate instances of air leakage from both sides of the building enclosure, creating one of the top two
sources of thermography work called for in government RFPs at present.
Following the lead of the USACE, state and city governments are beginning to adopt their own air
tightness testing requirements for new commercial buildings, some of which will apply
exclusively to mid and high-rise buildings (five stories or greater).
As the height of the building increases, the dynamics of air flow and pressure distribution become more complex, requiring a more experienced testing agency to perform the air tightness test and infrared thermography.
To date the largest test for the USACE was performed by BCRA on an eight-story office building at the Detroit Arsenal in October 2010.
The building was constructed by Grainger Construction for the USACE and passed the
air tightness requirement with a leakage rate 32% below the maximum allowed.
The paper will discuss the importance of air barriers and share BCRA’s findings
regarding air tightness testing, infrared thermography as it applies to air tightness, and
the results of the Detroit Arsenal Building 270 test.
Using Image Fusion to Enhance and Simplify Infrared Inspection Reports
Pratten III, John W.
ASNT Compliant
Fluke Thermography
Plymouth, MN
800-443-5853
Abstract:
For nearly 30 years infrared thermographers have routinely included daylight photographs in their inspection reports to help “tell the story” of the thermal patterns they encounter during their infrared inspections.
Traditionally, these photographs have been taken with a film or digital camera that was separate from the thermal imager.
Within the past 15 years several manufacturers have integrated digital visible light cameras within their thermal imagers.
Some of these imagers are capable of blending these images together into a composite or ‘fused’ image.
Such imagery can help to make sense of complex scenes and dramatically improves one’s ability to understand the subject imagery.
This presentation will provide an overview of image fusion along with its benefits and several examples of how it can be used to enhance the quality of one’s infrared inspection reports while reducing report writing time.
Back to Reality:
Infrared Thermography (IRT) as an Objectifier of Equine Back Pain and Saddle-fitting Problems
Robson, Joanna L.,
President, DVM, CVSMT,
CMP, CVA, SFT
Inspiritus Equine, Inc.
8 Golden Gate Circle
Napa, CA 94558
707-738-7110
jrobsondvm@inspiritusequine.com
equinethermalimaging.info
Abstract:
Infrared Thermography (IRT) has many uses in the equine industry. In biological systems the detection of surface heat is directly correlated with changes in circulation, thus providing evidence of inflammation or decreased perfusion.
Currently, the diagnosis of equine back pain is subjective, reliant on the veterinarian’s ability to palpate using his or her hands, and on the trainer’s or rider’s knowledge of how training and behavioral problems may relate to equine back pathology and saddle-fitting problems.
Modalities such as radiographs or ultrasound provide anatomic evidence of pathologic changes, but require specialized machines, are limited by location, and are not generally feasible in-field for spinal evaluation.
Thermal imaging provides a safe, quick, objective image of equine back inflammation, and is a useful tool in proper saddle-fitting.
The use of IRT in the equine industry provides objective evidence of equine pain that can help the human handlers to better understand their horses and subsequently effect positive changes that promote maximum equine performance and longevity.
ELECTRICAL SAFETY WORKSHOP TUTORIAL
How to Create an Effective Electrical Maintenance Program
Robinson, Martin
IRISS
Abstract:
Have you ever wondered just how to start an electrical maintenance program but didn’t know where to start?
Join us for a ½ day workshop designed to give you an overview of the critical requirements of a successful program.
The workshop outlines a typical Electrical Distribution system and will discuss in detail the key factors required of an electrical maintenance program, how to approach the maintenance requirements of each piece of equipment within the distribution system and how these processes integrate together.
Tutorial Outline
- Overview of NFPA70B and NFPA70E
- RCM (Reliability Centered Maintenance) Processes for Electrical Maintenance
- Condition Based measurement Techniques (IR, Ultrasound, MCA- Motor Current Analysis)
- Electrical Safety and Standards Compliance
- Building the Business Case for an Electrical Maintenance Program
LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
- Implementing NFPA 70B processes in line with the requirements of NFPA70E
- Understanding RCM processes and their benefits.
- Correct use of condition based measurement techniques (IR, Ultrasound, MCA, etc…) and the required measurement parameters for good data collection and report generation
- How to successfully combine maintenance tasks with the required safety standards
- Complete an outline document for the business case for your electrical maintenance Program
INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY:
For over 30 years, Martin Robinson has been a pioneer in the field of maintenance technology. He spent 18 years in the British Army specializing in field maintenance of combat fleet vehicles. Mr. Robinson continues to be an innovator and pioneer the technological benefits of Infrared Thermography internationally. He has met with, consulted, or advised international maintenance and reliability leaders on electrical preventive maintenance and electrical safety standards of NFPA and OSHA. A recognized authority in the field of Infrared Thermography (IR), Mr. Robinson has designed CBM programs to include IR, Non-destructive Testing (NDT) and implementation of green energy initiatives and energy management strategies.
The solutions Mr. Robinson designed, engineered, patented and manufacture are industry leading and include the world’s only industrial-grade infrared windows capable of passing durability and impact requirements; the first ultrasound ports; emissivity standardization label system; and the world’s only transmissive PDU panels. In 2001, he split the products from the services of GM Tech and moved the specialty manufacturing of the IRISS line of products to the US, and in 2007, incorporated IRISS, Inc. in Sarasota, Florida.
Heat Matters in Cooling Data Centers
Stockton, Gregory R.,
President
Stockton Infrared Thermographic Services, Inc.
& United Infrared, Inc.
8472 Adams Farm Road
Randleman, NC 27317
888-SCAN-4-IR
Abstract:
Information technology (IT) managers are worrying more about heat in their data centers every day.
The reliable and efficient operation of the power, cooling and support systems are vital to the continuous flow of information in these mission critical facilities. Getting as close to 100% uptime or “availability” at data center facilities is a necessity, as a loss in power in a data center can cost the owner millions of dollars.
Now, owing to the ever-increasing cost of electricity and grid capacity issues, data center operators are now exploring the idea of raising the temperature set-points from 70 degrees F to 80 degrees F.
This is no small market…it is estimated that data centers will consume 100 billion kWh of electricity by the end of this year.
This paper will explore the traditional P/PM use of IR and the merits of thermally mapping the data center to validate CFD modeling used in the design phase, and so that problems to the cooling system can be found and documented and confirmed after repairs.
I’ll Take Energy Audits for $100, Alex
Swirnow, Wayne
Level II Certified Infrared Thermographer
BPI Certified Building Analyst
Infrared Imaging Services
PO Box 221
New City, NY 10956
845-641-5482
www.infraredimaging
services.com
Abstract:
The recent explosion in energy conservation awareness and government stimulus funding has led to an increase in requests for energy audits by homeowners seeking to lower their utility bills.
The thermographer who has chosen to introduce the Energy Audit to his/her line of services may find that audits and related services can be time intensive and low-profit if they lack the experience and strategies necessary to optimize their efforts.
Beginning with audit execution and ending with a comprehensive report, this paper details practical strategies to reduce on-site time and maximize profits by referencing actual infrared survey results.
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