What is Thermography?

As humans, we see a very limited portion of the electromagnetic spectrum.  However, there is much more energy beyond what we can see.  Thermography allows us to expand our vision to see what is beyond our eye’s grasp.

Normally, we require touch to determine the difference between what is hot and cold.  But with infrared, contactless temperature measuring is possible.  Since every object with a temperature above absolute zero emits heat, that heat can be measured using these thermal waves.

 Thermography simply means that we can see how warm or cold something is in relation to what surrounds it.  Infrared light is the way these heat waves are passed on, and can be observed through the special lens of an infrared camera.

Why is thermography important?

Thermography is important because it enables a trained specialist to determine when an object is outside of the normal range it should be.  Why is this important?  Heat is caused many times by resistance, or friction.  In a piece of machinery, a higher temperature beyond normal operating guidelines means that something isn’t right.  Is it due to friction of bearings that are wearing out?  Is it more current passing through a cable than is acceptable?  Is there a problem with a connection not being solid?  Has a piece of equipment not received proper lubrication and maintenance?  Is there heat being created from the growth of mould behind a previously water-damaged wall?

Thermography can identify issues where quantitative and qualitative differences exist.  Qualitative differences could involve the temperature difference between a properly running motor and one that is lacking maintenance and pointing towards a potential failure.  Qualitative differences in temperatures could allow the identification of spots where certain bearings on a conveyor belt are running much hotter than others.

However, even with the best imagery, the key part is the interpretation of the image itself.  The interpretation involves both training and experience.

How can it affect Risk Management and Loss Control?

Think of the scenarios mentioned above.  How much more beneficial would it be if you were able to understand that there were deficiencies with an electrical panel… before a fire?  How would you be able to adjust your underwriting approach if you knew that equipment in a barn was overheating due to lack of maintenance?  Imagine if you were able to determine after a previous flood loss that the damage had not been completely remediated, and mould was still growing?

Having an extra tool such as thermography in your risk management and loss control toolbox could dramatically increase your ability to underwrite better.

How Can iv3 Solutions Assist You?

At iv3 Solutions, all of our thermographic imagers have gone through ITC Level I Thermography Training.  This training is provided by the manufacturers and key personnel at FLIR.  As mentioned earlier, even with the best equipment, the training to interpret the images is vital.  All imagery is also reviewed by Level 1 Thermography experts.  This can give you confidence that the findings in the reports have a sound basis to identify any concerns or areas requiring further investigation or repair.

Inspections can be customized to meet the needs of each location.  Whether you need imagery of a single house electrical panel, part or all of a barn or farm complex, or review of a process in an industrial building, our team can meet your needs.

Additionally, if you need assistance in determining an underwriting strategy for which properties to inspect first, iv3 can assist.

Our certified experts, spread from British Columbia to Newfoundland, are strategically placed to ensure that we can promptly meet your needs.

If you would like further information on the products and services, or a consultation on strategically identifying areas to inspect, we would be happy to discuss this with you.