Infrared Thermography
Infrared thermography is the use of thermal imaging to identify temperature patterns that may indicate electrical, mechanical, insulation, process, or heat-transfer problems.
What this term means in maintenance
Infrared thermography is the use of thermal imaging to identify temperature patterns that may indicate electrical, mechanical, insulation, process, or heat-transfer problems.
What thermography can identify
Thermal imaging may reveal:
- Loose electrical connections
- Overloaded components
- Phase imbalance
- Bearing heating
- Friction
- Insulation defects
- Steam-trap problems
- Blocked heat exchangers
- Refractory damage
- Process-temperature variation
Practical example
A thermal inspection finds one cable termination significantly hotter than comparable phases under similar load. The connection is inspected and tightened during a controlled shutdown.
Important measurement factors
Interpretation should consider:
- Emissivity
- Reflected temperature
- Distance
- Viewing angle
- Load
- Ambient condition
- Comparable components
- Equipment design
Safety
Thermal inspections around energized equipment require qualified personnel, appropriate PPE, and compliance with electrical-safety requirements.
Common mistake
A hot spot does not automatically identify the cause. Load, material, surface condition, and operating context must be reviewed before maintenance action is selected.
Related concepts
Related maintenance terms
Keep exploring connected CMMS, reliability, and maintenance planning terms.
Condition Monitoring
Condition monitoring is the systematic collection and review of equipment-condition information to identify deterioration, abnormal operation, or developing failure.
Predictive Maintenance
Predictive maintenance uses condition data, trends, and analytical methods to estimate when equipment degradation may require maintenance.
Critical Asset
A critical asset is equipment whose failure could create an unacceptable impact on safety, environment, product quality, compliance, production, or business continuity.
Glossary FAQs
- What can infrared thermography detect?
It can reveal electrical hot spots, friction, bearing heating, insulation problems, blocked heat transfer, and abnormal process temperatures.
- Does a thermal image show the exact cause?
No. It shows a temperature pattern that must be interpreted with load, material, environment, and equipment context.
- Is infrared inspection safe on energized equipment?
It requires qualified personnel, suitable PPE, and compliance with electrical-safety rules.