Applying Thermal Imaging Techniques to Marine Applications
Thermal Imaging is one of the most valuable diagnostic tools used on commercial and recreational vessels
|
By detecting temperature anomalies that are usually invisible to the naked eye, thermal imaging allows corrective action to be taken before costly system failures occur.
Thermal imaging cameras convert the energy in the infrared wavelength into a visible light display – called thermograms. |
All objects above absolute zero emit thermal infrared energy, so thermal cameras can passively see all objects, regardless of ambient light. The amount of radiation emitted from an object increases with temperature; therefore, thermography allows us to see variations in temperatures. When viewed / captured through a thermal imaging camera, warm objects stand out well against cooler backgrounds.
|
What Is Infrared?Our eyes are detectors that are designed to detect electromagnetic radiation in the visible light spectrum. All other forms of electromagnetic radiation, such as infrared, are invisible to the human eye.
Infrared radiation lies between the visible and microwave portions of the electromagnetic spectrum. The primary source of infrared radiation is heat or thermal radiation. Any object that has a temperature above absolute zero (-273.15 degrees Celsius or 0 Kelvin) emits radiation in the infrared region. Even objects that we think of as being very cold, such as ice cubes, emit infrared radiation.
|
|
A Powerful Non-Destructive Testing Process
Our high resolution thermal imaging cameras from FLIR are reliable non-contact instruments which are able to scan and visualize the temperature distribution of entire surfaces of machinery, electrical equipment, and fiberglass hulls / decks quickly and accurately.
|
|
Resolution |
Up to 161,472 pixels across on image. Each pixel is a radiometric measurement point and contains detailed data for the image. |
Thermal Sensitivity |
Describes how small a temperature difference the camera can detect. Our cameras have a thermal sensitivity down to 0.03°C. |
Object Temperature Range |
-20°C to 120°C (-4°F to 248°F) 0°C to 650°C (32°F to 1202°F) 300°C to 1500°C (572°F to 2732°F) |
Accuracy |
±2°C (±3.6°F) or ±2% of reading |
A thermogram example
|
|
Further investigation will include taking and analyzing images of the most common failure points (not show in this image). These include motor to pump mounting, the bearings, and the motor body. We will recommend to the client that the fire pump be taken off line and further investigation performed to determine if it a possible alignment issue, a bearing issue, or perhaps a motor electric winding issue exists. It could also be friction or a restriction in the actual pump / piping that is placing an increased load on the electric motor.
This type of issue would not have been noticed under normal circumstances until the issue manifested itself in a motor failure, loss of fireman pressure, or possible fire.
This type of issue would not have been noticed under normal circumstances until the issue manifested itself in a motor failure, loss of fireman pressure, or possible fire.
Thermal Analysis and Reports
|
Once all the images and videos are captured aboard your vessel - we load those files into our analysis software. From there we can use the advanced features to help with:
|
|
The pictures below are examples of the various image modes we can use to best depict the thermal details of the object.
Thermal Imaging Service Offerings
At Pilothouse Marine Services - we offer 3 basic thermal imaging services that match up with a typical vessel. Electrical - Mechanical - Composite Materials
- Electrical and Mechanical can be combined in a whole vessel Preventative Maintenance Program.
- These services are priced either on a per vessel basis or by the hour (whichever best meets your needs, the situation, or the scope of work).
|
Electrical Systems
Monitor and diagnose the condition of electrical installations and components. Discover HOT-SPOTS - take corrective actions. |
|
|
Typical Elements
|
When Performed
|
Inspection Process
|
|
Mechanical Systems
Scan and visualize the temperature distribution of entire surfaces of machinery. Avoid costly equipment breakdowns. |
|
Typical Elements
|
When Performed
|
Inspection Process
|
|
Composite Materials
Moisture, delamination, voids, and other common issues can be "seen" as thermal differences. Far advanced to the typical "moisture meter". Visualize defects, moisture, or impact damage that would not have been possible without destructive efforts such as coring / drilling. |
|
|
Typical Elements
|
When Performed
|
Inspection Process
|
