Infrared Scanners (IR)

An infrared camera is used for locate problems in electrical systems and leaking pipes in walls. The camera provides a high definition image of a target surface area.

Essentially, the human eye cannot see heat below about 525°C but IR detects heat from 0K (-273°C) to infinity. It’s the thermal contrast that makes it possible to predict problems. Useful to detect roof leaks – we can see where water runs across a flat roof or under roof sheeting without having to break or remove anything.

Some of the many other uses:

• Predictive maintenance: detecting problems before they develop into breakdowns, an obvious benefit for industrial processes.
• Locating roof leaks, wall leaks, leaks in concrete
• Detecting overloaded cables and loose connections (the main cause of industrial fires).
• Poor insulation in roofs.
• Heating or cooling losses.
• Defective tread wear on car tyres.
• Damaged industrial bearings, overheated pumps, motors, etc
• Lost persons at sea
• Medical: fractures, muscle strains, etc.

In the image below there is no sign of a hot water pipe in the wall but the IR image clearly shows the route. In this case there was a slight leak in a T piece above the door frame. The moisture can be seen in the third image taken on the opposite side of the wall.