THERMAL IMAGING

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What Is Thermal Imaging

 

Thermal Imaging acts sort of like the human eye, but rather than detecting reflected light which is visible, thermal (infrared) cameras detect infrared light (or heat) which is invisible to the human eye. Thermographic images display the amount of infrared energy (heat) that is emitted, transmitted, and reflected by an object. The thermographic images allow a thermographer to see the variations in temperature which aid in finding potential problems or defects. As Thermal Imaging is a non-destructive technology and does not permanently alter the object being inspected, it is a highly valuable technique that saves time and money in evaluation.

 

What are some of the advantages of utilizing a drone to perform thermal imaging?

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• Non-Destructive Testing – Evaluates the properties of a material, component, or system without causing damage.

• Safety – Eliminates the need for a person to climb up a ladder, tower, or to be on top of a roof.

• Efficiency/Economics – Inspect a larger area in a shorter period of time, inspect hard to reach areas, minimizes preventive maintenance and troubleshooting time, detects problems quickly without interrupting service, & check for defective equipment while it is still under warranty.

 

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Aerial Roof Inspections & Aerial Infrared Moisture Surveys – Infrared Thermal Imaging for roof inspections is an economical and proven method of maintaining commercial low slope and flat roofs. Infrared roof inspections can detect problems such as moisture intrusion and heat/energy loss due to poor installation, failed materials, or lack of proper maintenance. Aerial Infrared Roof Inspections will detect and locate moisture below the surface and can target the source of the leak such as a puncture, shrinkage due to expansion & contraction of the membrane, and damaged flashing and pitch pans. Catching minor problems and pinpointing their location, repairs can be made to only those portions of the roof that are damaged eliminating the need for a complete tear off and replacement.

 

 

Energy Loss Surveys – The loss of energy can be very expensive, especially if not detected and corrected. Thermal Imaging energy loss surveys can identify those areas where heating and cooling are escaping from failing or improperly insulated and/or sealed walls, windows, doors, ducts, etc.. An Infrared Energy Survey will benefit  property owners, commercial and residential, and facility managers in controlling your energy costs.

 

 

Solar – The use of a drone to perform a Thermographic Inspection of solar fields and panels is more efficient, safer, and less expensive than traditional testing methods. A drone equipped with a thermal camera can scan a large area in a short period of time during normal operation where potential problem areas like cell failures, connectivity failures and the degradation of the solar cells can be detected. The safety of personnel is greatly improved as rooftops and having to ascend to elevated heights is lessened or eliminated. Performing solar inspections beginning with a new installation and then with annual inspections will help in extending the solar panels lifetime and improve your return on investment.