Newsletter Archive – April 2016

Volume 5 Issue 4 April 2016

Director’s Message

With interest in thermography at an all-time high, more people are seeking training and certification. When comparing infrared course offerings, many mistakenly assume that all training and certification courses are the same.

The greatest limitation in an infrared inspection is the thermographer. Because of this, thermographer training and certification have long been recognized as requirements to help ensure accurate inspections. To this end, several firms offer Level I, II, and III training courses; however, these courses are not equal.

The American Society for Nondestructive Testing document, SNT-TC-1A, outlines suggested topics for training and certifying NDT personnel in the Thermal/Infrared Testing Method. Suggested topics range from basic theory and camera operation to advanced thermographic applications. Since these topics are suggestions, companies have wide latitude in compiling course content. Because of this, one should never assume that courses bearing the same name will contain similar content.

When considering any infrared training course, be certain to:

  • Review course curriculum carefully to ensure it meets your needs
  • Ascertain type of certification provided and its expiration date
  • Consider the history of the training firm and its credentials

Lastly, beware of training courses offered by equipment manufacturers or “vendor neutral” instructors. Only an independent training firm can offer unbiased opinions with respect to equipment choices.

Do You Have the Correct Time?

Most modern thermal imagers have the ability to record time and date along with thermal images. Taking a moment to ensure that the correct time and date are displayed on your imager before you begin your inspection can help to avoid wasted time and the collection of inaccurate data.

Having the correct time associated with your imagery is important for several reasons. With correctly dated imagery, it is possible to:

  • Accurately document when an inspection was performed
  • Easily store and uniquely reference image files
  • Record the duration of a thermal event

It is always good practice to consciously check your imager’s clock each time you start your imager and make any necessary adjustments. Be certain to check the clock periodically during each inspection and whenever the imager is restarted such as after a battery change or power interruption.

If your imager frequently displays incorrect time, it may be indicative of a defective or dead internal battery. To help avoid this problem, arrange for replacement of internal clock batteries whenever you have your imager serviced or repaired.

More Information

Spring is the Time for IR Inspections of Roofs

With the onset of warmer weather, the harshness of winter is but a fading memory for most. Left undetected, the damage caused by winter’s fury is a reality that can lead to premature roof failure. Fortunately, an infrared inspection of your roof can detect evidence of problems before they can get out of hand.

Performed under the proper conditions with the right equipment, an infrared inspection can detect evidence of latent moisture within the roofing system often before leaks become evident in the building.

The best candidates for infrared inspection are flat or low slope roofs where the insulation is located between the roof deck and the membrane, and the insulation is in direct contact with the underside of the membrane. Applicable constructions are roofs with either smooth or gravel-surfaced, built-up or single-ply membranes. If gravel is present, it should be less than ½” in diameter and less than 1″ thick.

For smooth-surfaced roofs, a short wave (2-5.6 µ) imager will provide more accurate results especially if the roof is painted with a reflective coating. All infrared data should be verified by a qualified roofing professional via core sampling or invasive moisture meter readings.
More Information

Call for Papers for IR/INFO 2017

Infraspection Institute is pleased to announce that its annual Advanced Training Conference, Technical Symposium and Technology Expo, IR/INFO 2017, will be held January 22 – 25, 2017 in Orlando, Florida. Now in its 28th year, IR/INFO features four days of networking, learning, and fun in a relaxed, yet professional, family atmosphere.

Infraspection Institute is presently seeking papers and presenters for IR/INFO 2017. Invited topics include, but are not limited to: safety, emerging applications, building sciences, related NDT, case histories, as well as tips and tricks.
Presentations are typically 25 minutes with 5 minutes for Q & A time with the audience. All papers and presentations will be published in the IR/INFO Proceedings. The deadline for abstract submissions is July 31.
Submit an Abstract

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