IR/INFO Proceedings 2011

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

www.allinson.com

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

www.iriss.com/deltat

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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

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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

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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

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Robson, Joanna, DVM

Inspiritus Equine, Inc.

8 Golden Gate Circle Napa, CA 94558

707-738-7110

www.InspiritusEquine.com
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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

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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

www.uesystems.com
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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

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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

www.unitedinfrared.com
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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

www.learnndt.com
www.tdlir.com
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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

www.weidmann-electrical.com
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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

www.infraredclinic.com
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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

www.flirthermography.com

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

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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.

Who Should Attend

  • Thermographers
  • Process Control Supervisors
  • Maintenance Managers
  • Loss Control Specialists
  • Reliability Engineers
  • P/PM and NDT Personnel
  • Manufacturers
  • Quality Assurance Inspectors
  • Home and Building Inspectors

How You Will Benefit

  • Education
  • Learn New Technology
  • Networking
  • See Latest Developments
  • Share Ideas
  • Discover New Applications & Techniques

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