Thursday, February 26, 2009

Use Infrared Thermography

Color patterns are used to interpret the temperature of the object.


Infrared thermography is the method for making an image of an object's infrared light (invisible light) from the objects thermal properties (heat properties). Thermography cameras, in addition to taking an image, can measure the temperature of the object or its surface. The color patterns that are produced in the image allows the user to interpret the thermal pattern of the object. Infrared thermography commonly is used to measure medical applications, electrical equipment, concrete bridges, airplanes and mechanical systems.


Instructions








1. Turn on the camera. Make sure the LCD screen comes on. Remove the lens cap on the camera.


2. Set the emissivity. If you are not sure what the emissivity setting should be, check the emissivity table in the manufacturer's manual. The default emissivity usually is around 0.85.


3. Take a thermometer and measure a specific point on an object. Point your camera directly at the same point. You can now adjust the emissivity setting to the same temperature reading as your thermometer. The LCD screen on your camera should indicate the current date, time and emissivity that you will be using.


4. Take images of the object you want to measure. Make sure your camera auto adjusts to the temperature. You might have to hold down your select button, depending on the type of camera you are using. Again, it is useful to check your camera's manual.








5. Make sure the camera is displaying a color pattern and the distance between the object and the camera. Find the focus button or focus ring and focus the image as needed. Press the save button on the camera when you have focused your object. Repeat above steps for additional images of the same object or different objects.


6. Upload images onto your computer. Make sure that you have downloaded the required thermography software that came with your camera. Evaluate images once uploaded.

Tags: your camera, Make sure, emissivity setting, Infrared thermography, object Infrared