Predictive maintenance infrared imaging

Collecting optics, radiation detectors and some form of indicator are the basic elements of an industrial infrared instrument. The optical system collects radiant energy and focuses it upon a detector, which converts it into an electrical signal. The instrument s electronics amplifies the output signal and process it into a form which can be displayed. There are three general types of instruments that can be used for predictive maintenance infrared thermometers or spot radiometers line scanners and imaging systems. 

As an example of the importance of process parameters monitoring, consider a process pump that may be critical to plant operation. Vibration-based predictive maintenance will provide the mechanical condition of the pump and infrared imaging will provide the condition of the electric motor and bearings. Neither provides any indication of the operating efficiency of the pump. Therefore, the pump can be operating at less than 50 per cent efficiency and the predictive maintenance program would not detect the problem. 

Significant technological advances made in infrared imaging systems over the past decade have made thermography a useful predictive maintenance tool. Nowadays, some infrared camcorder cameras weigh less than ten pounds. 

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