Thermal Imaging
What is Infrared
Thermograph (Thermal Imaging)
Thermograph is nothing
but the temperature profiling of a surface
or point. As the name suggests, infrared
thermograph is based on Infrared (IR)
technique. The principle underlying this
technique is that every object emits certain
amount of IR energy and the intensity of
this IR radiation is a function of
temperature. The IR energy which can
directly represent the surface temperature
can be detected and quantified by the help
of IR scanning system.
Applications
Limitations and
disadvantages of thermograph
-
Due to the low
volume of thermal cameras, quality cameras
often have a high price range (often up to
$20,000). But there are the cheaper
($1500 -$2000) camera’s that are inferior
and currently in use.
-
Images can be
difficult to interpret accurately when
based upon certain objects, specifically
objects with erratic temperatures (shade
trees).
-
Accurate
temperature measurements are hindered by
differing emissivity’s and reflections
from other surfaces.
-
Most cameras
have ±2% accuracy or worse and are not as
accurate as contact methods.
-
A hand held
moisture meter is still used to verify
results.
-
Only able to
directly detect surface temperatures (can
not see inside walls).
-
Training of
these devises is limited and there is no
New Jersey state certification.
-
Thermal imaging for
detection of termites.
This is a newer method, in use and
development in Australia.
Specifically, for the detection of
termites, but it still suffers the same
problems that dog inspections do. That
is, they don't detect termite damage,
carpenter ants and powder post beetles,
and they won't detect termite
infestations that may be currently
inactive but still viable.
02/01/2010 Thermal
imaging is a fantastic technology. Like
most technologies there is a growing stage,
and we feel that this is where thermal
imaging is now for this profession. At this
time Aggressive will wait until the
technology has proven itself to the point
where we feel comfortable to offer our
clients a 100% proven technology.
04/01/2011
Numerous seminars have been attended and it
has been determined that there are just to
many variables, to use thermal imaging as a
benefit to our clients. The tester has
to be well trained and not a part time user
like a home inspector. There are
currently a few professional thermographer's
that do thermal imaging as a full time
profession. It is felt that these are
the people to contact if a thermal image of
a dwelling is required.
03/28/2012
Thermal imaging is a legal can of worms for
the home inspector. Clients are lead to
believe that this technology will let them
sleep better at night. But in reality we as
home inspectors know that the inspection
report most definitely will have a big
disclaimer releasing the home inspector that
uses thermal imaging of all liability
because of its deficiencies or a warranty
will be offered.
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