Frequently Asked Questions

What is infrared radiation?

Humans can see only a small portion of the radiation that makes up visible light. The rest of the electromagnetic spectrum is made up of gamma rays, x-rays, ultraviolet light, infrared radiation, microwaves, and radio and television signals. The infrared wavelength is longer than a light wave but shorter than a radio wave.

Which diagnostic tool is better: infrared thermography, or ultrasound detection?

Infrared thermography and ultrasonic detection (which can “hear” leaks in equipment) can complement each other. Often, a faulty electrical connection will produce detectable ultrasound before it generates enough heat to be detected by thermographic imaging. Likewise, thermography can highlight hot spots that ultrasound equipment may never detect.

My factory must be well lighted at all times. Can thermal imaging equipment function in brightly lighted areas?

Because the energy being sensed is heat and not light, thermal imaging cameras are completely unaffected by the amount and intensity of lighting.

Do local power companies repair problems discovered by an infrared scan?

Your local power company can diagnose problems, make calculations, and give recommendations, but it does not perform the actual repairs. Its recommendations can cover vendors, equipment, contractors, and courses of action.

What sorts of companies have used infrared scanning technology?

The list of businesses that have benefited from the early detection of thermal imaging is extensive, and new applications continue to be discovered. The technology has been used in these areas:

Automotive quality control
Building diagnostics
Ceramics
Electrical inspection
Firefighting
Food processing
Glass fabrication
Iron and steel production
Medicine
Paper manufacturing
Plastics
Rubber production
Semiconductor manufacturing
Textiles