by Jim Seffrin, CMRP | May 22, 2022 | IR Thermography, RAM Tools & Methods
Thermal anomalies are not always as obvious as one might expect. Often, subtle thermal differences can be indicative of major problems. Because infrared thermography is a visual inspection technique, its effectiveness relies on the observation skills of the...
by Jim Seffrin, CMRP | Apr 24, 2022 | IR Thermography, RAM Tools & Methods
With interest in renewable energy at an all-time high, photovoltaic (PV) systems have become a common sight worldwide. Infrared inspections can be used for quality-assurance inspections of new installations or to monitor the performance of existing ones. Photovoltaics...
by Jim Seffrin, CMRP | Mar 6, 2022 | IR Thermography, RAM Tools & Methods
Emissivity refers to an object’s ability to radiate infrared (IR) energy. Because infrared instruments measure radiant energy, it’s imperative for a thermographer to understand Emissivity and how it can vary. All objects above 0 Kelvin radiate IR energy. The...
by Jim Seffrin, CMRP | Nov 21, 2021 | IR Thermography, RAM Tools & Methods
Process furnaces or heaters are critical components found in many petrochemical refineries. These large refractory-lined structures heat hydrocarbon product during the refining process. Performed properly, infrared inspections of furnace tubes can provide valuable...
by Jim Seffrin, CMRP | Sep 5, 2021 | Electrical Reliability, IR Thermography, RAM Tools & Methods
Statistically, overloaded circuits are the second most common cause of exceptions found during infrared inspections of electrical systems. Although overloads are quite common, they can be tricky to accurately diagnose. As electrical current flows through a...
by Jim Seffrin, CMRP | May 8, 2021 | IR Thermography, RAM Tools & Methods
With tremendous emphasis placed upon the sophistication of today’s thermal imagers, it could be easy for thermographers to forget the basics of the craft. Regardless of imager age or sophistication, there are several basic concepts that can vastly increase...
by Jim Seffrin, CMRP | Mar 13, 2021 | IR Thermography, RAM Tools & Methods
Non-contact thermometry provides a means for rapidly measuring object temperatures. To ensure measurement accuracy, all error sources must be considered and properly addressed. This article discusses how to measure and compensate for Reflected Temperature using the...
by Jim Seffrin, CMRP | Feb 6, 2021 | Electrical Reliability, IR Thermography, RAM Tools & Methods
It’s a common question: “How often should electrical systems be thermographically inspected?” Historically, accepted industry practice has recommended that infrared inspections be performed annually. However, site-specific conditions may dictate considerably...
by Jim Seffrin, CMRP | May 29, 2020 | IR Thermography, RAM Tools & Methods
The more things change, the more they remain the same. This timeless observation is especially true when referring to the seemingly revolutionary image fusion feature found on some of today’s modern thermal imagers. The fusion feature found on some modern thermal...
by Jim Seffrin, CMRP | Feb 29, 2020 | IR Thermography, RAM Tools & Methods
Leaks are a common problem with underground piping systems. Under the correct conditions, infrared (IR) thermography can help to detect evidence of leaks from buried piping systems that carry hot or cold product. When a leak develops in a buried piping system, fluid...
