Newsletter Archive – September 2018

Volume 7 Issue 9 – September 2018

Director’s Message

Over the past thirty years, professionalism has been a concern frequently discussed among practicing thermographers. It is not always recognized that true professionalism begins with the individual and is the responsibility of every member of the infrared community.

Because professionalism is determined by practitioners, it is incumbent upon thermographers to define our technology on a daily basis through our actions. If you are a practicing thermographer, the following are some ways you can help to enhance the image of our profession.

  • Promote thermography in an honest and positive manner
  • Do not offer derogatory or negative comments about a competitor
  • Use equipment appropriate for the subject inspection
  • Ensure that your formal training is current and the highest level you can achieve
  • Work within the limits of your training and experience
  • Adhere to published standards or guidelines

Lastly, when promoting your services or products, do so in an honest and forthright manner. We invite infrared professionals to act responsibly and with integrity by adhering to the simple concepts outlined herein. Doing so will maintain and enhance the professional image of our technology.

Distance Learning Courses

Since 2004 Infraspection Institute have been providing web-based training courses for infrared thermographers. We maintain the world’s most comprehensive selection of online training courses which includes Level I, II, and III Thermography as well as several application and industry-specific courses.

Courses are available 24/7 from anywhere in the world via a computer or a smart device. Students who complete 32 hours of training qualify to take the Infraspection Institute Certified Infrared Thermographer® exam.

Take your training wherever and whenever it’s convenient for you!

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Checking IR Equipment Calibration

Infrared radiometers must be within calibration in order to accurately measure temperatures. Traditionally, thermographers periodically send their equipment to the manufacturer for calibration. For some, this process can take several weeks and can be rather expensive. As an alternative, savvy thermographers can check the calibration of their instrument quickly and easily using some commonly available items.

In order to check infrared radiometer calibration, you will need at least two targets, each with a known temperature and emittance. A simple solution is to use a container of ice water and a container of boiling water with a coupon of Scotch PVC electrical tape affixed to the container’s exterior surface. The size of both targets must exceed the spot measurement size of the instrument being calibrated. Container temperatures may be ascertained with a thermometer, thermocouple, or contact radiometer.

Once targets have been prepared, use the following procedure:

  • Turn radiometer on and allow it to stabilize to room temperature
  • Set radiometer perpendicular to target surface
  • If possible, set radiometer inputs for distance, humidity & air temperature
  • Aim, focus and calculate Reflected Temperature
  • Set radiometer emittance control. Scotch 191 tape = 0.97 LW or SW. Ice = 0.98 LW; 0.93 SW
  • Using subject radiometer, measure temperature of target. For ice water, measure temperature of ice cubes. For hot water container, measure tape coupon.
  • Compare radiometer’s value with contact temperature reading for each target to ensure that radiometer is within spec

A heated blackbody simulator can be used to check instrument calibration at higher temperatures. Because radiometer calibration is not user-adjustable, it will be necessary to return it to the manufacturer should you find your instrument is out of spec.

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Early Registration Bonus for IR/INFO Exhibitors

Infraspection Institute are pleased to announce an early registration bonus for exhibitors at our annual IR/INFO Conference. Exhibitors that register and pay for their booth prior to September 15 are eligible to bring a second person at no additional charge. Valued at $595, this bonus provides full conference access, conference proceedings, and a tuition voucher redeemable for a discount on an Infraspection Institute Certified Infrared Thermographer® training course.

Now in its 30th year, IR/INFO is the original Advanced Infrared Training Conference, Technical Symposium, and Technology Expo. IR/INFO features four days of networking, learning, and fun in a professional, yet relaxed, family atmosphere. IR/INFO is scheduled for January 20 – 23, 2019 in New Orleans, LA.

IR/INFO is a must-attend event for all manufacturers and distributors of infrared equipment, condition based monitoring tools and services, reporting software, and those who provide products or services of interest to thermographers.

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