IR · Advanced NDT
Infrared Thermography
The Method
How IR works.
Every object emits infrared radiation in proportion to its temperature and surface emissivity. A radiometric infrared camera measures that radiation and produces a thermal image (thermogram) in which temperature differences can be seen and quantified.
Passive thermography examines the temperature patterns equipment produces in normal operation — overheated electrical connections, failing bearings, or missing insulation. Active thermography applies a controlled heat pulse and records how the surface cools; subsurface anomalies such as delaminations and disbonds change that heat flow and appear in the image.
Applications
Where IR is used
- Electrical surveys of switchgear, connections, and transformers
- Mechanical surveys of motors, bearings, and couplings
- Refractory and insulation condition in boilers, furnaces, and piping
- Steam trap and valve performance checks
- Delamination and disbond detection in composites and bonded structures (active thermography)
What thermography can reveal
What thermography can reveal
- Abnormal heating from loose or degraded electrical connections
- Friction and misalignment in rotating equipment
- Refractory damage and insulation loss
- Near-surface delaminations, disbonds, and moisture, under suitable conditions
Methods & Equipment
Typical equipment
- Radiometric infrared cameras
- Emissivity references and reflected-temperature compensation
- Visual cameras for paired reference images
- Flash or lamp heat sources for active thermography
Technical Considerations
Limits and requirements to plan for.
Surface temperature only
IR measures surface temperature. Internal conditions are inferred from their effect on the surface, which limits depth.
Emissivity and reflections
Shiny metals reflect their surroundings and read inaccurately. Emissivity must be known or corrected.
Thermal contrast
Electrical and mechanical surveys need equipment under adequate load. Active thermography needs a controlled heat input.
Environment
Sun, wind, and line-of-sight obstructions affect results, so survey timing and access are planned.
In Practice
IR in industry.
Power & industrial facilities
Routine electrical and mechanical condition surveys.
Process plants
Refractory, insulation, and steam system assessments.
Aerospace & composites
Active thermography for disbonds and delaminations.
Industries that benefit
How TCI Supports You
What you get from TCI.
- IR surveys documented with paired thermal and visual images
- Findings prioritized so maintenance teams know what to address first
- Thermography combined with other NDT where a finding needs confirmation
Let's discuss your inspection requirements.
Tell us about your project, schedule, and the specifications you work to. A member of our leadership team will respond directly.