Flir Infracam SD Manual

Users manual
Users manual Benutzerhandbuch Manual del usuario Manuel de lutilisateur Manuale dellutente Manual do utilizador Felhas-
nual Benutzerhandbuch Manual del usuario Manuel de lutilisateur Manuale dellutente Manual do utilizador Felhasznli kziknyv Kyttjn opas Betjenings-
znli kziknyv Kyttjn opas Betjeningsvejledning Brukerveiledning Instrukcja obsugi Bruksanvisning Kullanm
dning Brukerveiledning Instrukcja obsugi Bruksanvisning Kullanm Klavuzu Uivatelsk pruka Gebruikershandleiding
Klavuzu Uivatelsk pruka Gebruikershandleiding
FLIR InfraCAM
FLIR InfraCAM SD
Publ. No. 1558299

Revision a283
Language English (EN)
Issue date May 21, 2008
Warnings & Cautions 1
Notice to user 2
Customer help 3
Important note about this manual 4
Contents of the transport case 5
Camera parts 6
Screen elements 7
Connecting the cables 8
Operating the camera 9
Cleaning the camera 10
Technical data 11
Dimensional drawings 12
Introduction to building thermography 13
Introduction to thermographic inspections of

electrical installations 14
About FLIR Systems 15

History of infrared technology 16
Users manual
Publ. No. 1558299 Rev. a283 ENGLISH (EN) May 21, 2008
Legal disclaimer
All products manufactured by FLIR Systems are warranted against defective materials and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the
delivery date of the original purchase, provided such products have been under normal storage, use and service, and in accordance with
FLIR Systems instruction.
All products not manufactured by FLIR Systems included in systems delivered by FLIR Systems to the original purchaser carry the warranty,
if any, of the particular supplier only and FLIR Systems has no responsibility whatsoever for such products.
The warranty extends only to the original purchaser and is not transferable. It is not applicable to any product which has been subjected to
misuse, neglect, accident or abnormal conditions of operation. Expendable parts are excluded from the warranty.
In the case of a defect in a product covered by this warranty the product must not be further used in order to prevent additional damage. The
purchaser shall promptly report any defect to FLIR Systems or this warranty will not apply.
FLIR Systems will, at its option, repair or replace any such defective product free of charge if, upon inspection, it proves to be defective in
material or workmanship and provided that it is returned to FLIR Systems within the said one-year period.
FLIR Systems has no other obligation or liability for defects than those set forth above.
No other warranty is expressed or implied. FLIR Systems specifically disclaims the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a
particular purpose.
FLIR Systems shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, special, incidental or consequential loss or damage, whether based on contract, tort
or any other legal theory.
Copyright
FLIR Systems, 2008. All rights reserved worldwide. No parts of the software including source code may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed
or translated into any language or computer language in any form or by any means, electronic, magnetic, optical, manual or otherwise,
without the prior written permission of FLIR Systems.
This manual must not, in whole or part, be copied, photocopied, reproduced, translated or transmitted to any electronic medium or machine
readable form without prior consent, in writing, from FLIR Systems.
Names and marks appearing on the products herein are either registered trademarks or trademarks of FLIR Systems and/or its subsidiaries.
All other trademarks, trade names or company names referenced herein are used for identification only and are the property of their respective
owners.
Quality assurance
The Quality Management System under which these products are developed and manufactured has been certified in accordance with the
ISO 9001 standard.
FLIR Systems is committed to a policy of continuous development; therefore we reserve the right to make changes and improvements on
any of the products described in this manual without prior notice.
Patents
This product is protected by patents, design patents, patents pending, or design patents pending.
One or several of the following patents, design patents, patents pending, or design patents pending apply to the products and/or features
described in this manual:
Designation Status Reg. No.
China Application 00809178.1
China Design Patent 235308
China Design Patent ZL02331553.9
China Design Patent ZL02331554.7
China Pending 200530018812.0
EPC Patent 1188086
EPO Application 01930377.5
EPO Application 01934715.2
EPO Application 27282912
EU Design Patent 000279476-0001
France Patent 1188086
viii Publ. No. 1558299 Rev. a283 ENGLISH (EN) May 21, 2008
Germany Patent 60004227.8
Great Britain Design Patent 106017
Great Britain Patent 1188086
International Design Patent DM/057692
International Design Patent DM/061609
Japan Application 2000-620406
Japan Design Patent 1144833
Japan Pending 2005-020460
PCT Application PCT/SE01/00983
PCT Application PCT/SE/00/00739
Sweden Application 0302837-0
Sweden Design Patent 68657
Sweden Design Patent 75530
Sweden Patent 518836
U.S. Application 09/576266
U.S. Application 10/476,760
U.S. Design Patent 466540
U.S. Patent 5,386,117
U.S. Patent 5,637,871
U.S. Patent 5,756,999
U.S. Patent 6,028,309
U.S. Patent 6,707,044
U.S. Patent 6,812,465
U.S. Patent 7,034,300
Publ. No. 1558299 Rev. a283 ENGLISH (EN) May 21, 2008
U.S. Pending 29/233,400
EULA Terms
You have acquired a device (INFRARED CAMERA) that includes software licensed by FLIR Systems AB from Microsoft Licensing, GP
or its affiliates (MS). Those installed software products of MS origin, as well as associated media, printed materials, and online or
electronic documentation (SOFTWARE) are protected by international intellectual property laws and treaties. The SOFTWARE is licensed,
not sold. All rights reserved.
IF YOU DO NOT AGREE TO THIS END USER LICENSE AGREEMENT (EULA), DO NOT USE THE DEVICE OR COPY THE SOFTWARE.
INSTEAD, PROMPTLY CONTACT FLIR Systems AB FOR INSTRUCTIONS ON RETURN OF THE UNUSED DEVICE(S) FOR A REFUND.
ANY USE OF THE SOFTWARE, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO USE ON THE DEVICE, WILL CONSTITUTE YOUR AGREEMENT
TO THIS EULA (OR RATIFICATION OF ANY PREVIOUS CONSENT).
GRANT OF SOFTWARE LICENSE. This EULA grants you the following license:
You may use the SOFTWARE only on the DEVICE.
NOT FAULT TOLERANT. THE SOFTWARE IS NOT FAULT TOLERANT. FLIR Systems AB HAS INDEPENDENTLY DETERMINED
HOW TO USE THE SOFTWARE IN THE DEVICE, AND MS HAS RELIED UPON FLIR Systems AB TO CONDUCT SUFFICIENT TESTING
TO DETERMINE THAT THE SOFTWARE IS SUITABLE FOR SUCH USE.
NO WARRANTIES FOR THE SOFTWARE. THE SOFTWARE is provided AS IS and with all faults. THE ENTIRE RISK AS TO SAT-
ISFACTORY QUALITY, PERFORMANCE, ACCURACY, AND EFFORT (INCLUDING LACK OF NEGLIGENCE) IS WITH YOU. ALSO,
THERE IS NO WARRANTY AGAINST INTERFERENCE WITH YOUR ENJOYMENT OF THE SOFTWARE OR AGAINST INFRINGEMENT.
IF YOU HAVE RECEIVED ANY WARRANTIES REGARDING THE DEVICE OR THE SOFTWARE, THOSE WARRANTIES DO NOT
ORIGINATE FROM, AND ARE NOT BINDING ON, MS.
No Liability for Certain Damages. EXCEPT AS PROHIBITED BY LAW, MS SHALL HAVE NO LIABILITY FOR ANY INDIRECT,
SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES ARISING FROM OR IN CONNECTION WITH THE USE OR PERFOR-
MANCE OF THE SOFTWARE. THIS LIMITATION SHALL APPLY EVEN IF ANY REMEDY FAILS OF ITS ESSENTIAL PURPOSE.
IN NO EVENT SHALL MS BE LIABLE FOR ANY AMOUNT IN EXCESS OF U.S. TWO HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS (U.S.$250.00).
Limitations on Reverse Engineering, Decompilation, and Disassembly. You may not reverse engineer, decompile, or disassemble
the SOFTWARE, except and only to the extent that such activity is expressly permitted by applicable law notwithstanding this limitation.
SOFTWARE TRANSFER ALLOWED BUT WITH RESTRICTIONS. You may permanently transfer rights under this EULA only as part
of a permanent sale or transfer of the Device, and only if the recipient agrees to this EULA. If the SOFTWARE is an upgrade, any
transfer must also include all prior versions of the SOFTWARE.
EXPORT RESTRICTIONS. You acknowledge that SOFTWARE is subject to U.S. export jurisdiction. You agree to comply with all
applicable international and national laws that apply to the SOFTWARE, including the U.S. Export Administration Regulations, as well
as end-user, end-use and destination restrictions issued by U.S. and other governments. For additional information see
http://www.microsoft.com/exporting/.
x Publ. No. 1558299 Rev. a283 ENGLISH (EN) May 21, 2008
Table of contents
1 Warnings & Cautions ..................................................................................................................... 1
2 Notice to user .................................................................................................................................. 3
3 Customer help ................................................................................................................................ 5
4 Important note about this manual ................................................................................................. 7
5 Contents of the transport case ..................................................................................................... 9
6 Camera parts ................................................................................................................................... 11

6.1 Front view ............................................................................................................................. 11
6.2 Side view ............................................................................................................................... 13
6.3 Keypad .................................................................................................................................. 14
6.4 Controls & functions ............................................................................................................. 15
6.5 Power indicator ..................................................................................................................... 16
6.6 Battery condition indicator ................................................................................................... 17
6.7 Laser pointer ......................................................................................................................... 18
7 Screen elements ............................................................................................................................. 20
8 Connecting the cables ................................................................................................................... 23

8.1 Power cable .......................................................................................................................... 23
8.2 USB cable ............................................................................................................................. 24
9 Operating the camera .................................................................................................................... 25

9.1 Installing the battery ............................................................................................................. 25
9.2 Removing the battery ........................................................................................................... 26
9.3 Charging the battery ............................................................................................................. 27
9.3.1 Using the combined power supply & battery charger to charge the battery when
it is inside the camera ........................................................................................... 28
9.3.2 Using the combined power supply & battery charger to charge the battery when
it is outside the camera ......................................................................................... 29
9.3.3 Using the stand-alone battery charger to charge the battery .............................. 30
9.4 Starting the camera .............................................................................................................. 31
9.5 Stopping the camera ............................................................................................................ 31
9.6 Adjusting camera focus ........................................................................................................ 32
9.7 Operating the laser pointer ................................................................................................... 33
9.8 Saving an image ................................................................................................................... 34
9.9 Auto-adjusting an image ...................................................................................................... 36
9.10 Adjusting an image manually ............................................................................................... 37
9.10.1 Increasing or decreasing the maximum temperature level .................................. 38
9.10.2 Increasing or decreasing the minimum temperature level .................................. 39
9.10.3 Changing both the maximum and minimum temperature level at the same
time ....................................................................................................................... 40
9.11 Measuring a temperature using a spot meter ...................................................................... 41
9.12 Measuring a temperature using an area .............................................................................. 42
9.13 Changing the colors ............................................................................................................. 43
9.14 Changing emissivity ............................................................................................................. 44
9.15 Changing the reflected apparent temperature .................................................................... 46
9.16 Opening an image ................................................................................................................ 48
Publ. No. 1558299 Rev. a283 ENGLISH (EN) May 21, 2008 xi
9.17 Deleting an image ................................................................................................................. 49
9.18 Deleting all images ............................................................................................................... 50
9.19 Changing camera settings ................................................................................................... 51
9.20 Moving images to a PC ........................................................................................................ 52
9.21 Viewing streaming MPEG4 live video from the camera ....................................................... 54
10 Cleaning the camera ...................................................................................................................... 55

10.1 Camera housing, cables, and other items ........................................................................... 55
10.2 Infrared lens .......................................................................................................................... 56
11 Technical data ................................................................................................................................. 57
12 Dimensional drawings ................................................................................................................... 63

12.1 Camera ................................................................................................................................. 63
12.2 Battery ................................................................................................................................... 67
12.3 Stand-alone battery charger ................................................................................................. 68
12.4 Stand-alone battery charger with battery ............................................................................. 69
13 Introduction to building thermography ........................................................................................ 71

13.1 Important note ...................................................................................................................... 71
13.2 Typical field investigations .................................................................................................... 71
13.2.1 Guidelines ............................................................................................................. 71
13.2.1.1 General guidelines ............................................................................ 71
13.2.1.2 Guidelines for moisture detection, mold detection & detection of
water damages .................................................................................. 72
13.2.1.3 Guidelines for detection of air infiltration & insulation deficiencies ... 72
13.2.2 About moisture detection ..................................................................................... 73
13.2.3 Moisture detection (1): Low-slope commercial roofs .......................................... 73
13.2.3.1 General information ........................................................................... 73
13.2.3.2 Safety precautions ............................................................................ 74
13.2.3.3 Commented building structures ....................................................... 75
13.2.3.4 Commented infrared images ............................................................ 76
13.2.4 Moisture detection (2): Commercial & residential faades .................................. 78
13.2.5 Moisture detection (3): Decks & balconies .......................................................... 80
13.2.6 Moisture detection (4): Plumbing breaks & leaks ................................................ 83
13.2.7 Air infiltration ......................................................................................................... 86
13.2.8 Insulation deficiencies .......................................................................................... 89
13.3 Theory of building science ................................................................................................... 93
13.3.1 General information .............................................................................................. 93
13.3.2 The effects of testing and checking ..................................................................... 94
xii Publ. No. 1558299 Rev. a283 ENGLISH (EN) May 21, 2008
13.3.3 Sources of disruption in thermography ................................................................ 95
13.3.4 Surface temperature and air leaks ....................................................................... 97
13.3.4.1 Pressure conditions in a building ..................................................... 97
13.3.5 Measuring conditions & measuring season ......................................................... 103
13.3.6 Interpretation of infrared images .......................................................................... 103
13.3.7 Humidity & dew point ........................................................................................... 105
13.3.7.1 Relative & absolute humidity ............................................................ 105
13.3.7.2 Definition of dew point ...................................................................... 106
13.3.8 Excerpt from Technical Note Assessing thermal bridging and insulation
continuity (UK example) ...................................................................................... 106
13.3.8.1 Credits ............................................................................................... 106
13.3.8.2 Introduction ....................................................................................... 107
13.3.8.3 Background information ................................................................... 107
13.3.8.4 Quantitative appraisal of thermal anomalies .................................... 108
13.3.8.5 Conditions and equipment ............................................................... 111
13.3.8.6 Survey and analysis .......................................................................... 112
13.3.8.7 Reporting ........................................................................................... 113
13.4 Disclaimer ............................................................................................................................. 115
13.4.1 Copyright notice ................................................................................................... 115
13.4.2 Training & certification .......................................................................................... 115
13.4.3 National or regional building codes ..................................................................... 115
14 Introduction to thermographic inspections of electrical installations ...................................... 117

14.1 Important note ...................................................................................................................... 117
14.2 General information .............................................................................................................. 117
14.2.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................... 117
14.2.2 General equipment data ....................................................................................... 118
14.2.3 Inspection ............................................................................................................. 119
14.2.4 Classification & reporting ...................................................................................... 119
14.2.5 Priority ................................................................................................................... 120
14.2.6 Repair .................................................................................................................... 120
14.2.7 Control .................................................................................................................. 121
14.3 Measurement technique for thermographic inspection of electrical installations ............... 122
14.3.1 How to correctly set the equipment ..................................................................... 122
14.3.2 Temperature measurement ................................................................................... 122
14.3.3 Comparative measurement .................................................................................. 124
14.3.4 Normal operating temperature ............................................................................. 125
14.3.5 Classification of faults ........................................................................................... 126
14.4 Reporting .............................................................................................................................. 128
14.5 Different types of hot spots in electrical installations ........................................................... 130
14.5.1 Reflections ............................................................................................................ 130
14.5.2 Solar heating ......................................................................................................... 130
14.5.3 Inductive heating ................................................................................................... 131
14.5.4 Load variations ...................................................................................................... 131
14.5.5 Varying cooling conditions ................................................................................... 132
14.5.6 Resistance variations ............................................................................................ 133
14.5.7 Overheating in one part as a result of a fault in another ...................................... 133
14.6 Disturbance factors at thermographic inspection of electrical installations ........................ 135
14.6.1 Wind ...................................................................................................................... 135
14.6.2 Rain and snow ...................................................................................................... 135
14.6.3 Distance to object ................................................................................................. 136
14.6.4 Object size ............................................................................................................ 137
14.7 Practical advice for the thermographer ................................................................................ 139
Publ. No. 1558299 Rev. a283 ENGLISH (EN) May 21, 2008 xiii
14.7.1 From cold to hot ................................................................................................... 139
14.7.2 Rain showers ........................................................................................................ 139
14.7.3 Emissivity .............................................................................................................. 139
14.7.4 Reflected apparent temperature ........................................................................... 140
14.7.5 Object too far away ............................................................................................... 140
15 About FLIR Systems ....................................................................................................................... 141

15.1 More than just an infrared camera ....................................................................................... 142
15.2 Sharing our knowledge ........................................................................................................ 142
15.3 Supporting our customers ................................................................................................... 142
15.4 A few images from our facilities ........................................................................................... 143
16 History of infrared technology ...................................................................................................... 145
xiv Publ. No. 1558299 Rev. a283 ENGLISH (EN) May 21, 2008
1
1 Warnings & Cautions
WARNING This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and if
not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause in-
terference to radio communications. It has been tested and found to comply with
the limits for a Class A computing device pursuant to Subpart J of Part 15 of FCC
Rules, which are designed to provide reasonable protection against such interfer-
ence when operated in a commercial environment. Operation of this equipment
in a residential area is likely to cause interference in which case the user at his
own expense will be required to take whatever measures may be required to
correct the interference.
(Applies only to cameras with laser pointer:) Do not look directly into the laser
beam. The laser beam can cause eye irritation.
Applies only to cameras with battery:
Do not disassemble or do a modification to the battery. The battery contains
safety and protection devices which, if they become damaged, can cause the
battery to become hot, or cause an explosion or an ignition.
If there is a leak from the battery and the fluid gets into your eyes, do not rub
your eyes. Flush well with water and immediately get medical care. The battery
fluid can cause injury to your eyes if you do not do this.
Do not continue to charge the battery if it does not become charged in the
specified charging time. If you continue to charge the battery, it can become
hot and cause an explosion or ignition.
Only use the correct equipment to discharge the battery. If you do not use the
correct equipment, you can decrease the performance or the life cycle of the
battery. If you do not use the correct equipment, an incorrect flow of current
to the battery can occur. This can cause the battery to become hot, or cause
an explosion and injury to persons.
Make sure that you read all applicable MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheets) and
warning labels on containers before you use a liquid: the liquids can be dangerous.
CAUTION Do not point the infrared camera (with or without the lens cover) at intensive energy
sources, for example devices that emit laser radiation, or the sun. This can have
an unwanted effect on the accuracy of the camera. It can also cause damage to
the detector in the camera.
Do not use the camera in a temperature higher than +50C (+122F), unless
specified otherwise in the technical data section. High temperatures can cause
damage to the camera.
(Applies only to cameras with laser pointer:) Protect the laser pointer with the
protective cap when you do not operate the laser pointer.
Applies only to cameras with battery:
Do not attach the batteries directly to a cars cigarette lighter socket, unless a
specific adapter for connecting the batteries to a cigarette lighter socket is
provided by FLIR Systems.
Do not connect the positive terminal and the negative terminal of the battery
to each other with a metal object (such as wire).
Do not get water or salt water on the battery, or permit the battery to get wet.
Publ. No. 1558299 Rev. a283 ENGLISH (EN) May 21, 2008 1
1 Warnings & Cautions
1 Do not make holes in the battery with objects. Do not hit the battery with a
hammer. Do not step on the battery, or apply strong impacts or shocks to it.
Do not put the batteries in or near a fire, or into direct sunlight. When the battery
becomes hot, the built-in safety equipment becomes energized and can stop
the battery charging process. If the battery becomes hot, damage can occur
to the safety equipment and this can cause more heat, damage or ignition of
the battery.
Do not put the battery on a fire or increase the temperature of the battery with
heat.
Do not put the battery on or near fires, stoves, or other high-temperature loca-
tions.
Do not solder directly onto the battery.
Do not use the battery if, when you use, charge, or store the battery, there is
an unusual smell from the battery, the battery feels hot, changes color, changes
shape, or is in an unusual condition. Contact your sales office if one or more
of these problems occurs.
Only use a specified battery charger when you charge the battery.
The temperature range through which you can charge the battery is 0C to
+45C (+32F to +113F). If you charge the battery at temperatures out of this
range, it can cause the battery to become hot or to break. It can also decrease
the performance or the life cycle of the battery.
The temperature range through which you can discharge the battery is 15C
to +50C (+5F to +122F). Use of the battery out of this temperature range
can decrease the performance or the life cycle of the battery.
When the battery is worn, apply insulation to the terminals with adhesive tape
or similar materials before you discard it.
Do not apply solvents or similar liquids to the camera, the cables, or other items.
This can cause damage.
Be careful when you clean the infrared lens. The lens has a delicate anti-reflective
coating.
Do not clean the infrared lens too vigorously. This can damage the anti-reflective
coating.
2 Publ. No. 1558299 Rev. a283 ENGLISH (EN) May 21, 2008
2 Notice to user
Typographical This manual uses the following typographical conventions: 2
conventions
Semibold is used for menu names, menu commands and labels, and buttons in
dialog boxes.
Italic is used for important information.
Monospace is used for code samples.
UPPER CASE is used for names on keys and buttons.
User-to-user Exchange ideas, problems, and infrared solutions with fellow thermographers around
forums the world in our user-to-user forums. To go to the forums, visit:
http://www.infraredtraining.com/community/boards/
Calibration (This notice only applies to cameras with measurement capabilities.)

We recommend that you send in the camera for calibration once a year. Contact
your local sales office for instructions on where to send the camera.
Accuracy (This notice only applies to cameras with measurement capabilities.)

For very accurate results, we recommend that you wait 5 minutes after you have
started the camera before measuring a temperature.
Disposal of 10742803;a1
electronic waste
As with most electronic products, this equipment must be disposed of in an environ-

mentally friendly way, and in accordance with existing regulations for electronic waste.
Please contact your FLIR Systems representative for more details.
Training To read about infrared training, visit:

http://www.infraredtraining.com
2 Notice to user
INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
3 Customer help
General For customer help, visit:
http://flir.custhelp.com
Submitting a To submit a question to the customer help team, you must be a registered user. It 3
question only takes a few minutes to register online. If you only want to search the knowledge-
base for existing questions and answers, you do not need to be a registered user.
When you want to submit a question, make sure that you have the following informa-
tion to hand:
The camera model
The camera serial number
The communication protocol, or method, between the camera and your PC (for
example, Ethernet, USB, or FireWire)
Operating system on your PC
Microsoft Office version
Full name, publication number, and revision number of the manual
Downloads On the customer help site you can also download the following:
Firmware updates for your infrared camera
Program updates for your PC software
User documentation
Application stories
Technical publications
Figure This figure shows the welcome page of FLIR Systems customer help site:
10776203;a1
3 Customer help
4 Important note about this manual
General FLIR Systems issues generic manuals that cover several cameras within a model
line.
This means that this manual may contain descriptions and explanations that do not
apply to your particular camera model.
NOTE FLIR Systems reserves the right to discontinue models, parts or accessories, and
other items, or to change specifications at any time without prior notice. 4
4 Important note about this manual
5 Contents of the transport case
Contents
Item
Battery
Combined power supply & battery charger
FLIR InfraCAM/ FLIR InfraCAM SD infrared camera
Power cable
Printed Getting Started Guide
SD Card
5
Stand-alone battery charger (extra option)
ThermaCAM QuickReport CD-ROM
USB cable
User Documentation CD-ROM
NOTE Contact your local sales office if any item is damaged or missing. You can find
the addresses and telephone numbers of local sales offices on the back cover of
this manual.
The contents of the transport case is subject to customer configuration.
FLIR Systems reserves the right to discontinue models, parts or accessories, and
other items, or change specifications at any time without prior notice.
The stand-alone battery charger is an item that is not included in the standard
package.
5 Contents of the transport case
6 Camera parts
6.1 Front view
Figure 10601703;a2
Explanation This table gives an explanation to the figure above:
1 Laser pointer with lens cap
2 Focus ring
3 Infrared lens
4 Lens cap for infrared lens. To prevent losing the lens cap, you can attach
it to the tripod mount.
6 Camera parts
5 (Applies only to models with SD Memory Card:)

Slot for SD Memory Card
6 USB mini-B connector
NOTE The laser pointer may not be enabled in all markets.
6 Camera parts
6.2 Side view

Figure 10601803;a2
1 Tripod mount 1/4"-20
2 Top trigger to operate the laser pointer
3 Bottom trigger to save an image
4 Battery compartment lid
5 Rubber lid for power connector
6 Locking mechanism for battery compartment lid
7 Camera serial number behind rubber lid

When you attach the camera to a tripod, use a tripod ball head where the top part
does not prevent the operation of the laser trigger.
6 Camera parts
6.3 Keypad
Figure 10602903;a2
1 Text that indicates the current function of the left selection button.
2 Navigation pad
3 Left selection button. This button is context-sensitive.
4 Camera/archive button. This button is used to go between camera mode

and archive mode.
5 Text that indicates the current function of the right selection button.
6 Right selection button. This button is context-sensitive.
7 Power button
6 Camera parts
6.4 Controls & functions

General The camera has the following controls:
Four push-buttons
One navigation pad
Two triggers
Explanation This table gives an explanation to the figures on page 13 and 14:
Button or trigger Functions
Left selection button The left selection button has the following context-
sensitive functions:
Menu
Select
Options
Cancel
Delete 6
Camera/archive button Push to go between camera mode and archive mode.
Right selection button The right selection button has the following context-
sensitive functions:
Man/Auto
Close
Open
Overview
OK
Delete
Restore
Power button Push the power button to start the camera.

Push and hold the power button for more than 0.5
seconds to stop the camera.
Navigation pad Push up/down or left/right to navigate on menus

and in dialog boxes.
Push up/down to change a value.
Push left/right to select a menu command in a
menu.
Top trigger Pull the top trigger to start the laser pointer.
Release the top trigger to stop the laser pointer.
Bottom trigger Pull and release the bottom trigger to save one image
to the camera memory, or SD Memory Card (depend-
ing on camera model).
6 Camera parts
6.5 Power indicator

General The camera has two power modes. An indicator shows these modes.
Figure 10715803;a3
Explanation This table gives an explanation about the indicator:
Signal type Explanation
The green light is continuous. The camera is on.
The green light is off. The camera is off.
NOTE If the green light flashes 10 times per second the camera has a hardware problem.
Contact your local sales office for instructions where to send the camera for service.
6 Camera parts
6.6 Battery condition indicator

General The battery has a battery condition indicator.
Figure 10715703;a3
Explanation This table gives an explanation about the battery condition indicator:
Type of signal Explanation
The green light flashes two times per The power supply or the stand-alone
second. battery charger charges the battery.
The green light is continuous. The battery is fully charged.
The green light is off. The camera uses the battery (instead
of the power supply).
6 Camera parts
6.7 Laser pointer

General The camera has a laser pointer. When the laser pointer is on, you can see a laser
dot approximately 37 mm (1.5 in.) above the target.
Figure This figure shows the difference in position between the laser pointer and the optical
center of the infrared lens:
10602503;a2
WARNING Do not look directly into the laser beam. The laser beam can cause eye irritation.
CAUTION Protect the laser pointer with the protective cap when you do not operate the laser
pointer.
The symbol is displayed on the screen when the laser pointer is on.
The distance between the laser beam and the image center changes because of
the target distance. Look at the screen to make sure that it displays the correct
target.
6 Camera parts
Laser warning This laser warning label is attached to the camera:

label 10376403;a2
Laser rules and Wavelength: 635 nm. Max. output power: 1 mW.
regulations
This product complies with 21 CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11 except for deviations pur-
suant to Laser Notice No. 50, dated July 26th, 2001.
7 Screen elements
General You use screen elementstools, menus and selections in dialog boxesto control
the camera program. This section describes the typical set of screen objects.
Figure 10715503;a5
1 Current function of the left selection button of the keypad
2 Laser symbol
3 Main menu
7 Screen elements
4 Measured temperature
If the symbol > or < precedes the temperature value, the value is above
or below the cameras temperature range.
5 The remaining number of images that you can save in the camera
memory (applies only to models without SD Memory Card)
Free memory on the SD Memory Card in per cent (applies only to
models with SD Memory Card)
6 Indicator that shows battery status and that the camera uses the battery. If
the camera uses the power supply, a different indicator is displayed.
7 Indicator that shows that a USB cable is connected between the camera
and a PC
8 Date and time
9 Submenu
10 Maximum temperature in the temperature range. In this figure, the minimum

temperature is hidden under the main menu.
11 Indicator that shows if the camera is in auto-adjust mode (A) or manual

adjust mode (M) 7
12 Current function of the right selection button of the keypad
13 Temperature scale
14 Tool to change the maximum temperature
15 Tool to change the maximum and minimum temperature at the same time
16 Tool to change the minimum temperature
17 Indicator that shows the relative width of the measured temperature span
compared to the temperature scale values
7 Screen elements
8 Connecting the cables
8.1 Power cable
General You connect a power cable to the camera
when you charge the battery;
when you use the power supply to operate the camera.
Figure 10601403;a2
SEE ALSO For information about pin configuration, see section 11 Power connector on
page 60.
8 Connecting the cables
8.2 USB cable

General You connect a USB cable to the camera when you move images from the camera
memory to a computer.
Figure 10601303;a3
SEE ALSO The camera can stream MPEG4 live video through the USB cable. For more informa-
tion, see section 9.21 Viewing streaming MPEG4 live video from the camera on
page 54.
9 Operating the camera
9.1 Installing the battery
NOTE Use a clean and dry cloth to remove any water or moisture on the battery before you
install it.
Procedure Follow this procedure to install the battery:
1 To open the battery compartment lid, push down the locking mechanism.
10600803;a1
2 Push the battery into the battery compartment.

10601603;a1
3 Push the battery compartment lid into position.

10601103;a1
9.2 Removing the battery

Procedure Follow this procedure to remove the battery:
10600803;a1
2 Pull out the battery from the battery compartment.

10601003;a1

9 10601103;a1
9.3 Charging the battery

NOTE You must charge the battery for four hours before you start the camera the first time.
General You must charge the battery when the message Battery voltage is low! is displayed
on the screen.
Do one of these procedures to charge the battery:
Use the combined power supply & battery charger to charge the battery when it
is inside the camera.
Use the combined power supply & battery charger to charge the battery when it
is outside the camera.
Use the stand-alone battery charger to charge the battery (The stand-alone battery
charger is an item that is not included in the standard package.).
SEE ALSO For information how to charge the battery, see the following sections:
Section 9.3.1 Using the combined power supply & battery charger to charge
the battery when it is inside the camera on page 28
Section 9.3.2 Using the combined power supply & battery charger to charge
the battery when it is outside the camera on page 29
Section 9.3.3 Using the stand-alone battery charger to charge the battery on
page 30
9.3.1 Using the combined power supply & battery charger to charge the
battery when it is inside the camera
NOTE For the clarity of the procedure, the combined power supply & battery charger is
called power supply below.
Procedure Follow this procedure to use the power supply to charge the battery when it is inside
the camera:
2 Push the battery into the battery compartment.
4 On the battery compartment lid, open the rubber lid to find the connector
on the battery.
5 Connect the power supply cable plug to the connector on the battery.
6 Connect the power supply wall plug to a wall outlet box.
7 Disconnect the power supply cable plug when the green light of the battery
condition indicator is continuous.
NOTE The battery has a battery condition indicator. When the green light is continuous, the
battery is fully charged.
SEE ALSO For information about the battery condition indicator, see section 6.6 Battery
condition indicator on page 17.
9 For information about how to install and remove the battery, see section 9.1 In-
stalling the battery on page 25 and section 9.2 Removing the battery on page 26.
9.3.2 Using the combined power supply & battery charger to charge the
battery when it is outside the camera
NOTE For the clarity of the procedure, the combined power supply & battery charger is
called power supply below.
Procedure Follow this procedure to use the power supply to charge the battery when it is outside
the camera:
1 Put the battery on a flat surface.
2 Connect the power supply cable plug to the connector on the battery.
NOTE The battery has a battery condition indicator. When the green light is continuous, the
battery is fully charged.
SEE ALSO For information about the battery condition indicator, see section 6.6 Battery con-
dition indicator on page 17.
9.3.3 Using the stand-alone battery charger to charge the battery
Procedure Follow this procedure to use the stand-alone battery charger to charge the battery:
1 Put the battery in the stand-alone battery charger.
2 Connect the power supply cable plug to the connector on the stand-alone
battery charger.
NOTE The stand-alone battery charger is an item that is not included in the standard
package.
The battery has a battery condition indicator. When the green light is continuous,
the battery is fully charged.
SEE ALSO For information about the battery condition indicator, see section 6.6 Battery con-
dition indicator on page 17.
9.4 Starting the camera

Procedure Push the power button to start the camera.
9.5 Stopping the camera

Procedure Push and hold the power button for more than 0.5 seconds to stop the camera.
NOTE If you do not use the camera, the power goes off after a time period that you can set
in the menu system (See section 9.19 Changing camera settings on page 51.).
9.6 Adjusting camera focus

Figure 10602803;a1
Procedure Follow this procedure to adjust camera focus:
1 Hold the camera tightly in your hand.
2 Hold the focus ring with the other hand.
3 Do one of the following:

Turn the focus ring counter-clockwise for far focus.
Turn the focus ring clock-wise for near focus.
9.7 Operating the laser pointer

Figure 10601203;a3
Procedure Follow this procedure to operate the laser pointer: 9

1 Pull the top trigger to start the laser pointer.
2 Release the top trigger to stop the laser pointer.
9.8 Saving an image

General Depending on your camera model, you can save one image or many images to the
camera memory, or on the SD Memory Card.
Naming The naming convention for images is IR_xxxx.jpg, where xxxx is a unique counter.
convention When you select Restore default the camera resets the counter and assigns the first
highest free file name for the new file.
Figure 10601503;a1
Procedure Pull and release the bottom trigger to save one image to the camera memory, or SD
Memory Card (depending on camera model).
NOTE When you save an image to the camera memory, you save the measured value too.
You can save 50 images to the camera memory (applies only to models without
SD Memory Card).
You can save 1,000 images to the SD Memory Card (applies only to models with
SD Memory Card). More than 1,000 images can be saved on larger SD Memory
Cards, but this will decrease the performance of the camera.
The image file format is compatible with ThermaCAM Reporter 8.0 and later
(applies only to models with SD Memory Card).
9.9 Auto-adjusting an image

General For best image brightness and contrast, auto-adjust the camera before you measure
a temperature and save an image.
Procedure If the letter M is displayed in the bottom right corner of the screen, push Man/Auto
one time to auto-adjust the image.
NOTE If the letter A is displayed in the bottom right corner of the screen, the camera is al-
ready auto-adjusted for best image brightness and contrast.
9.10 Adjusting an image manually

General If you want to analyze an object with many different temperatures, you can use the
colors of the scale on different parts of the object.
In the left image below a correct analysis of the left cable is difficult to make if you
only auto-adjust the image. You can analyze the left cable more in detail if you increase
or decrease
the maximum temperature level;
the minimum temperature level;
the maximum and minimum temperature level at the same time.
Figure This figure shows two infrared images of cable connection points.
In the image to the left, the image is auto-adjusted. In the right image the maximum
and minimum temperature levels have been changed to temperature levels near the
object. In the temperature scale to the right of each image you can see how the
temperature levels were changed.
10577503;a2
SEE ALSO For procedures about how to adjust the image manually, see these sections:
Section 9.10.1 Increasing or decreasing the maximum temperature level on
page 38
Section 9.10.2 Increasing or decreasing the minimum temperature level on
page 39
Section 9.10.3 Changing both the maximum and minimum temperature level at
the same time on page 40
9.10.1 Increasing or decreasing the maximum temperature level
Procedure Follow this procedure to increase or decrease the maximum temperature level:

If the letter A is displayed in the bottom right corner of the screen, push
Man/Auto one time.
If the letter M is displayed in the bottom right corner of the screen, go
to the next step below.
2
To select , push the navigation pad left/right.
3 To change the value, push the navigation pad up/down.
9.10.2 Increasing or decreasing the minimum temperature level
Procedure Follow this procedure to increase or decrease the minimum temperature level:

Man/Auto one time.
2
9.10.3 Changing both the maximum and minimum temperature level at

the same time
Procedure Follow this procedure to change both the maximum and minimum temperature at
the same time:

Man/Auto one time.
2
9.11 Measuring a temperature using a spot meter

General You can measure the temperature using a fixed spot meter in the middle of the screen.
Procedure Follow this procedure to measure the temperature using a fixed spot meter:
1 To display the main menu, push Menu.
2
To select , push the navigation pad up/down.
3 To enable the menu, push Select.
4 To select Temperature, push the navigation pad up/down.
5 To save the changes and close the menu, push Close.
6 Point the camera at the object you want to measure. The temperature is
displayed in the top left corner of the screen.
NOTE To display the temperature correctly, the circle in the middle of the spot meter must
be completely filled by the object.
9.12 Measuring a temperature using an area

NOTE This feature may not be enabled in all camera models.
General You can measure the minimum or maximum temperature using a fixed area in the
middle of the screen.
Procedure Follow this procedure to measure the minimum or maximum temperature using a
fixed area:
2

To create an area for which the minimum temperature is indicated in the
top left corner of the screen, push the navigation pad up/down to select
Cold and push Select.
To create an area for which the maximum temperature is indicated in
the top left corner of the screen, push the navigation pad up/down to
select Hot and push Select.
5 Point the camera at the object you want to measure.
9.13 Changing the colors

General You can change the colors that the camera uses to display different temperatures.
A different set of colors can make it easier to make an analysis of the image.
Procedure Follow this procedure to change the color:
2
4 To select a different color, push the navigation pad up/down.
5 To close the menu, push Select.
9.14 Changing emissivity

General Emissivity is a value that specifies how much radiation an object emits, compared
to the radiation of a theoretical reference object of the same temperature (called a
blackbody).
Except for shiny metals, a value of 0.96 is acceptable for most applications.
Example values
Asphalt paving 0.97
Brick, masonry, paint, plastic 0.93
Copper, heavily oxidized 0.78
Rubber, concrete 0.95
Stucco 0.91
Tape, electrical black 0.96
Wood 0.85
Procedure Follow this procedure to change emissivity:
2
9 4 To select Emissivity, push the navigation pad up/down.
5 To enable the Emissivity menu, push Select.

Select an emissivity value in the menu.
Select Set value to set an arbitrary emissivity value.
7 To close the menu, push Select.
NOTE If you set the emissivity to a value lower than 0.5 a warning is displayed on the screen.
This is to remind you that the value is unusually low.
9.15 Changing the reflected apparent temperature

General For very accurate measurements, you must set the reflected apparent temperature.
The reflected apparent temperature compensates for the radiation from the surround-
ings reflected by the object into the camera.
If emissivity is low and the object temperature differs very much from the reflected
apparent temperature, it is even more important to set the reflected apparent temper-
ature correctly.
Typical examples It is, for example, important to set the reflected apparent temperature in the following
situations:
When you use the camera to inspect a hot item under a cold winter sky.
When you use the camera to inspect an item in a room where there are hot fur-
naces or electrical cabinets at the other end of the room.
Procedure Follow this procedure to change the reflected apparent temperature:

If you already know the reflected apparent temperature, go to step 7
below.
If you do not know the reflected apparent temperature, go to step 2 be-
low.
2 Crumble up a large piece of aluminum foil.
3 Uncrumble the aluminum foil and attach it to a piece of cardboard of the

same size.
9 4 Put the piece of cardboard in front of the object you want to measure. Make
sure that the side with aluminum foil points to the camera.
5 Set the emissivity to 1.0 (See section 9.14 Changing emissivity on

page 44.).
6 Measure the apparent temperature of the aluminium foil and write it down.
You will need this value when you set Reflected temp. in step 12 below.
8
10 To select Reflected temp., push the navigation pad up/down.
11 To enable the Reflected temp. box, push Select.
12 To select a different value, push the navigation pad up/down.
13 To close the menu, push OK.
NOTE Do not point the infrared camera (with or without the lens cover) at intensive energy
sources, for example devices that emit laser radiation, or the sun. This can have an
unwanted effect on the accuracy of the camera. It can also cause damage to the
detector in the camera.
SEE ALSO For more information about how to measure reflected apparent tempetature, see the
ISO standard DIS 18434-1 and the ASTM standard ASTM E1862-97.
9.16 Opening an image

General When you save an image, you store the image in the camera memory, or on the SD
Memory Card, depending on your camera model.
To display the image again, you can open the image from the camera memory, or
SD Memory Card.
Procedure Follow this procedure to open an image:
1 To open the image archive, push the camera/archive button.

To find the image you want to open, push the navigation pad left/right.
To display thumbnails of all images, push Overview, and follow this
procedure:
1 To select the image you want to open, push the navigation pad
up/down or left/right.
2 To open the image, push Open.
3 To go back to live IR image, push the camera/archive button.
9.17 Deleting an image

General You can delete an image from the camera memory.
Procedure Follow this procedure to delete an image:

To delete this image, push Delete.
To delete another image, go to Step 3 below.
3 To display thumbnails of all images, push Overview.
4 To select the image you want to delete, push the navigation pad up/down
or left/right.
5 Push Options.
6 Push Delete.
7 Confirm Delete.
9.18 Deleting all images

General You can delete all images from the camera memory.
Procedure Follow this procedure to delete all images:
2 To display thumbnails of all images, push Overview.
3 Push Options.
4 Push Delete all images.
5 Confirm Delete all images.
9.19 Changing camera settings

General Camera settings have an effect on images and how the camera operates.
Applicability The procedure below is applicable to these settings:

Auto off (to set time period after which the camera power goes off)
Display intensity (to set intensity of the display)
Language (to change language)
Unit (to change units)
Time format (to change time format)
Set time (to set time)
Time stamp (to set time-stamping of images)
Restore default (to restore factory default values)
USB cable (to set USB mode)
Procedure Follow this procedure to change the camera settings above:
2
3 To enable the Settings menu, push Select.
4 To select the setting you want to change, push the navigation pad up/down.
5 Use the navigation pad and the following buttons to change the setting:
Select
Close
OK
9
Cancel
9.20 Moving images to a PC

General You can move one or many images from the camera to a computer.
Overview of You can use two different methods when you move images from the camera to a
methods computer:
Method 1: Move images when the camera works as a USB disk. With this method
you dont need to install ThermaCAM QuickReport on your computer.
Method 2: Move images when the camera is connected to a PC with ThermaCAM
QuickReport. ThermaCAM QuickReport contains features for image handling
and creation of PDF reports.
Method 3: Use the SD Memory Card to move images (applies only to models
with SD Memory Card).
Equipment To move the images from the camera, you need this equipment:
A computer with an IBM-PC operating system
The program ThermaCAM QuickReport (Method 2 only)
A USB cable
Method 1 Follow this procedure to move images when the camera works as a USB disk:
2
4 To select USB cable, push the navigation pad up/down.

9
5 To select Standard, push the navigation pad up/down.
6 Click OK.
7 Connect the camera and use Windows Explorer to drag-and-drop images

from the camera to the computer.
NOTE When you select Standard a help text is displayed in the camera. Read the help text
carefully.
Method 2 Follow this procedure to move images to a PC with ThermaCAM QuickReport:
2
4 To select USB cable, push the navigation pad up/down.
5 To select Network disk. push the navigation pad up/down.
6 Click OK.
7 Connect the camera to the computer according to ThermaCAM QuickRe-

port Users manual, Publ. No. 1558629.
8 See ThermaCAM QuickReport Users manual, Publ. No. 1558629 for more
instructions.
NOTE When you select Network disk a help text is displayed in the camera. Read the help
text carefully.
SEE ALSO For information about how to install and use ThermaCAM QuickReport, see Ther-
maCAM QuickReport Users manual, Publ. No. 1558629. FLIR Systems ships this
manual with your camera.
9.21 Viewing streaming MPEG4 live video from the camera

General The camera can stream MPEG4 live video through the USB cable.
Procedure Follow this procedure to view streaming MPEG4 live video from the camera:
1 Go to http://www.apple.com/quicktime/download/win.html and download

the latest version of Apple QuickTime.
2 Install the program according to the instructions.
3 In the camera, make sure that you select Network disk (USB cable
Network disk).
4 Connect your camera to your computer.
5 Start Apple QuickTime Player.
6 On the File menu, click Open URL.
7 In the text box, type rtsp://192.168.0.2.
8 Click OK.
NOTE If rtsp://192.168.0.2 does not work in step 7 above, try rtsp://192.168.1.2.
10 Cleaning the camera
10.1 Camera housing, cables, and other items
Liquids Use one of these liquids:
Warm water
A weak detergent solution
Equipment A soft cloth
Procedure Follow this procedure:
1 Soak the cloth in the liquid.
2 Twist the cloth to remove excess liquid.
3 Clean the part with the cloth.
CAUTION Do not apply solvents or similar liquids to the camera, the cables, or other items.
This can cause damage.
10
10 Cleaning the camera
10.2 Infrared lens

Liquids Use one of these liquids:
96% isopropyl alcohol.
A commercial lens cleaning liquid with more than 30% isopropyl alcohol.
Equipment Cotton wool
Procedure Follow this procedure:
1 Soak the cotton wool in the liquid.
2 Twist the cotton wool to remove excess liquid.
3 Clean the lens one time only and discard the cotton wool.
WARNING Make sure that you read all applicable MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheets) and
warning labels on containers before you use a liquid: the liquids can be dangerous.
CAUTION Be careful when you clean the infrared lens. The lens has a delicate anti-reflective
coating.
Do not clean the infrared lens too vigorously. This can damage the anti-reflective
coating.
10
11 Technical data
Disclaimer FLIR Systems reserves the right to discontinue models, parts or accessories, and
other items, or change specifications at any time without prior notice.
Imaging
Spectral range 7.513 m
performance
Detector type Focal Plane Array (FPA), uncooled microbolometer
120 120 pixels
Image frequency 9 Hz
Accuracy 2.0C ( 3.6F) or 2% of reading
Thermal sensitivity InfraCAM: 0.20 (0.36)

InfraCAM SD: 0.10 (0.18)
Image
Screen 89 mm (3.5 in.) color LCD, 18-bit colors
presentation
Interpolation Detector image interpolated to 240 240 pixels
Object
Object temperature 10 to +350C (+14 to +662F)
temperature
ranges
ranges
Laser pointer
Classification Class 2
Type Semiconductor AlGaInP diode laser, 1 mW, 635 nm

(red)
11
11 Technical data
Power system
Battery type Rechargeable Li/Ion battery
Battery capacity 2200 mAh, at +20C to +25C (+68F to +77F)
Battery operating time Approximately 7 hours at +25C (+77F) ambient

temperature and typical use
Battery charging Use the combined power supply & battery charger
to charge the battery when it is inside the camera.
Use the combined power supply & battery charger
to charge the battery when it is outside the camera.
Use the stand-alone battery charger to charge the
battery (The stand-alone battery charger is an item
that is not included in the standard package.).
AC operation AC adapter, 90260 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 12 VDC out
Voltage 1116 VDC
Auto off The camera power goes off after a time period that
the user can set.
11
11 Technical data
Environmental
Operating temperature 15C to +50C (+5F to +122F)
data
range
Storage temperature 40C to +70C (40F to +158F)

range
Humidity (operating & IEC 68-2-30/24 h 95% relative humidity +25C to

storage) +40C (+77F to +104F)
EMC EN 61000-6-2:2001 (Immunity)

EN 61000-6-3:2001 (Emission)
FCC 47 CFR Part 15 Class B (Emission)
Encapsulation IP 54 (IEC 60529)
Bump 25 g (IEC 60068-2-29)
Vibration 2 g (IEC 60068-2-6)
Physical data
Total weight 0.55 kg (1.21 lb.), including battery
Weight of battery 0.12 kg (0.26 lb.)
Size (L W H) 103.0 81.2 243.0 mm

(4.1 3.2 9.6 in.)
Tripod mount Standard, 1/4"-20
Housing material Polycarbonate + Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PC-

ABS)
Grip material TPE Thermoplastic Elastomer Plastics
Communication
USB Image transfer to PC
USB 1.1 Full Speed (12 Mbps)
11
11 Technical data
Power connector 10601903;a1
Pin Signal name
1 +12V
11 2 GND
3 GND
11 Technical data
Field of view & 10602703;a2
distance
Figure 11.1 Relationship between field of view and distance. 1: Distance to target;
2: VFOV = vertical field of view; 3: HFOV = horizontal field of view, 4: IFOV = instan-
taneous field of view (size of one detector element).
This table gives an explanation of field of view at certain distances to targets. D =
distance to target.
10603003;a2
11
11 Technical data
Optical data
Field of view 25 25
Focal length 10.28 mm (0.40 in.)
Close focus limit 0.125 m (0.409 ft.)
F-number 1.5
Optical resolution 3.66 mrad
11
12 Dimensional drawings
12.1 Camera
Figure 10602403;a2
12
Figure 10602603;a3
12
Figure 10726103;a1
12
Figure 10726203;a1
NOTE The tripod mount thread is 1/4"-20.
12
12.2 Battery
Figure 10602103;a2
NOTE Use a clean and dry cloth to remove any water or moisture on the battery before you
install it.
12
12.3 Stand-alone battery charger

Figure 10602203;a3
package.
Use a clean and dry cloth to remove any water or moisture on the battery before
you put it in the battery charger.
12
12.4 Stand-alone battery charger with battery

Figure 10602303;a3
package.
Use a clean and dry cloth to remove any water or moisture on the battery before
you put it in the battery charger.
12
12
13 Introduction to building
thermography
13.1 Important note
All camera functions and features that are described in this section may not be sup-
ported by your particular camera configuration.
13.2 Typical field investigations

13.2.1 Guidelines
As will be noted in subsequent sections there are a number of general guidelines the
user should take heed of when carrying out building thermography inspection. This
section gives a summary of these guidelines.
13.2.1.1 General guidelines
The emissivity of the majority of building materials fall between 0.85 and 0.95.
Setting the emissivity value in the camera to 0.90 can be regarded as a good
starting point.
An infrared inspection alone should never be used as a decision point for further
actions. Always verify suspicions and findings using other methods, such as con-
struction drawings, moisture meters, humidity & temperature datalogging, tracer
gas testing etc.
Change level and span to thermally tune the infrared image and reveal more details.
The figure below shows the difference between a thermally untuned and a thermally
tuned infrared image.
10552103;a2
13
Figure 13.1 LEFT: A thermally untuned infrared image; RIGHT: A thermally tuned infrared image, after
having changed level and span.
13 Introduction to building thermography
13.2.1.2 Guidelines for moisture detection, mold detection & detection of

water damages
Building defects related to moisture and water damages may only show up when
heat has been applied to the surface, e.g. from the sun.
The presence of water changes the thermal conductivity and the thermal mass of
the building material. It may also change the surface temperature of building mate-
rial due to evaporative cooling. Thermal conductivity is a materials ability to conduct
heat, while thermal mass is its ability to store heat.
Infrared inspection does not directly detect the presence of mold, rather it may be
used to find moisture where mold may develop or has already developed. Mold
requires temperatures between +4C to +38C (+40F to +100F), nutrients and
moisture to grow. Humidity levels above 50% can provide sufficient moisture to
enable mold to grow.
10556003;a1
Figure 13.2 Microscopic view of mold spore
13.2.1.3 Guidelines for detection of air infiltration & insulation deficiencies

For very accurate camera measurements, take measurements of the temperature
and enter this value in the camera.
It is recommended that there is a difference in pressure between the outside and
the inside of the building structure. This facilitates the analysis of the infrared images
13
and reveals deficiencies that would not be visible otherwise. Although a negative
pressure of between 10 and 50 Pa is recommended, carrying out the inspection
at a lower negative pressure may be acceptable. To do this, close all windows,
doors and ventilation ducts and then run the kitchen exhaust fan for some time to
reach a negative pressure of 510 Pa (applies to residential houses only).
A difference in temperature between the inside and the outside of 1015C (1827F)
is recommended. Inspections can be carried out at a lower temperature difference,
but will make the analysis of the infrared images somewhat more difficult.
Avoid direct sunlight on a part of a building structuree.g. a faadethat is to be
inspected from the inside. The sunlight will heat the faade which will equalize the
temperature differences on the inside and mask deficiencies in the building structure.
Spring seasons with low nighttime temperatures (0C (+32F)) and high daytime
temperatures (+14C (+57F)) are especially risky.
13.2.2 About moisture detection
Moisture in a building structure can originate from several different sources, e.g.:
External leaks, such as floods, leaking fire hydrants etc.
Internal leaks, such as freshwater piping, waste water piping etc.
Condensation, which is humidity in the air falling out as liquid water due to conden-
sation on cold surfaces.
Building moisture, which is any moisture in the building material prior to erecting
the building structure.
Water remaining from firefighting.
As a non-destructive detection method, using an infrared camera has a number of
advantages over other methods, and a few disadvantages:
Advantage Disadvantage
The method is quick. The method only detects surface temperature

The method is a non-intrusive means of investi- differentials and can not see through walls.
gation. The method can not detect subsurface damage,
The method does not require relocation of the i.e. mold or structural damage.
occupants.
The method features an illustrative visual pre-
sentation of findings.
The method confirms failure points and mois-
ture migration paths.
13.2.3 Moisture detection (1): Low-slope commercial roofs

13.2.3.1 General information
Low-slope commercial roofing is one of the most common roof types for industrial
building, such as warehouses, industrial plants, machinery shops etc. Its major ad-
13
vantages over a pitched roof is the lower cost in material and building. However, due
to its design where snow and ice will not fall off by itselfas is the case for the major-
ity of pitched roofsit must be strongly built to support the accumulated weight of
both roof structure and any snow, ice and rain.
Although a basic understanding of the construction of low-slope commercial roofs is

desirable when carrying out a roof thermography inspection, expert knowledge is not
necessary. There is a large number of different design principles for low-slope com-
mercial roofsboth when it comes to material and designand it would be impossible
for the infrared inspection person to know them all. If additional information about a
certain roof is needed, the architect or contractor of the building can usually supply
the relevant information.
Common causes of roof failure are outlined in the table below (from SPIE Thermosense
Proceedings Vol. 371 (1982), p. 177).
Cause %
Poor workmanship 47.6
Roof traffic 2.6
Poor design 16.7
Trapped moisture 7.8
Materials 8.0
Age & weathering 8.4
Potential leak locations include the following:

Flashing
Drains
Penetrations
Seams
Blisters
13.2.3.2 Safety precautions
Recommend a minimum of two people on a roof, preferably three or more.
Inspect the underside of the roof for structural integrity prior to walking on it.
Avoid stepping on blisters that are common on built up bitumen and gravel roofs.
Have a cell phone or radio available in case of emergency.
Inform local police and plant security prior to doing nighttime roof survey.
13
13.2.3.3 Commented building structures

This section includes a few typical examples of moisture problems on low-slope
commercial roofs.
Structural drawing Comment
10553603;a2
Inadequate sealing of roof membrane around
conduit and ventilation ducts leading to local
leakage around the conduit or duct.
10553703;a2
Roof membrane inadequately sealed around roof
access hatch.
13

10553803;a2
Drainage channels located too high and with too
low an inclination. Some water will remain in the
drainage channel after rain, which may lead to local
leakage around the channel.
10553903;a2
Inadequate sealing between roof membrane and
roof outlet leading to local leakage around the roof
outlet.
13.2.3.4 Commented infrared images

How do you find wet insulation below the surface of the roof? When the surface itself
is dry, including any gravel or ballast, a sunny day will warm the entire roof. Early in
the evening, if the sky is clear, the roof will begin to cool down by radiation. Because
13 of its higher thermal capacity the wet insulation will stay warmer longer than the dry
and will be visible in the infrared imager (see photos below). The technique is partic-
ularly effective on roofs having absorbent insulationsuch as wood fiber, fiberglass,
and perlitewhere thermal patterns correlate almost perfectly with moisture.
Infrared inspections of roofs with nonabsorbent insulations, common in many single-

ply systems, are more difficult to diagnose because patterns are more diffuse.
This section includes a few typical infrared images of moisture problems on low-slope
commercial roofs:
Infrared image Comment
10554003;a1
Moisture detection on a roof, recorded during the
evening.
Since the building material affected by moisture
has a higher thermal mass, its temperature decreas-
es slower than surrounding areas.
10554103;a1
Water-damaged roofing components and insula-
tion identified from infrared scan from the under-
side of the built-up roof on a structural concrete
tee deck.
Affected areas are cooler than the surrounding
sound areas, due to conductive and/or thermal
capacitive effect.
10554203;a1
Daytime survey of built-up low-slope commercial
roof.
Affected areas are cooler than the surrounding dry
areas, due to conductive and/or thermal capacitive
effect.
13
13.2.4 Moisture detection (2): Commercial & residential faades

Thermography has proven to be invaluable in the assessment of moisture infiltration
into commercial and residential faades. Being able to provide a physical illustration
of the moisture migration paths is more conclusive than extrapolating moisture meter
probe locations and more cost-effective than large intrusive test cuts.
This section includes a few typical examples of moisture problems on commercial
and residential faades.
10554303;a2
Pelting rain penetrates the faade due to badly
executed bed joints. Moisture builds up in the
masonry above the window.
10554403;a2
Pelting rain hits the window at an angle. Most of
the rain runs off the window edge flashing but
some finds its way into the masonry where the
plaster meets the underside of the flashing.
13

10554503;a2
Rain hits the faade at an angle and penetrates
the plaster through cracks. The water then follows
the inside of the plaster and leads to frost erosion.
10554603;a2
Rain splashes on the faade and penetrates the
plaster and masonry by absorption, which eventu-
ally leads to frost erosion.
13

This section includes a few typical infrared images of moisture problems on commercial
& residential faades.
10554703;a1
Improperly terminated and sealed stone veneer to
window frame and missing flashings has resulted
in moisture infiltration into the wall cavity and inte-
rior living space.
10554803;a1
Moisture migration into drywall from capillary drive
and interior finish components from inadequate
clearance and slope of grade from vinyl siding
faade on an apartment complex.
13.2.5 Moisture detection (3): Decks & balconies

Although there are differences in design, materials and construction, decksplaza
decks, courtyard decks etcsuffer from the same moisture and leaking problems as
low-slope commercial roofs. Improper flashing, inadequately sealed membranes,
and insufficient drainage may lead to substantial damage in the building structures
13 below.
Balconies, although smaller in size, require the same care in design, choice of mate-
rial, and workmanship as any other building structure. Since balconies are usually
supported on one side only, moisture leading to corrosion of struts and concrete re-
inforcement can cause problems and lead to hazardous situations.

This section includes a few typical examples of moisture problems on decks and
balconies.
10555203;a2
Improper sealing of paving and membrane to roof
outlet, leading to leakage during rain.
10555103;a2
No flashing at deck-to-wall connection, leading to
rain penetrating the concrete and insulation.
13

10555003;a2
Water has penetrated the concrete due to inade-
quately sized drop apron and has led to concrete
disintegration and corrosion of reinforcement.
SECURITY RISK!
10554903;a2
Water has penetrated the plaster and underlying
masonry at the point where the handrail is fastened
to the wall.
SECURITY RISK!
13

This section includes a few typical infrared images of moisture problems on decks
and balconies.
10555303;a1
Improper flashing at balcony-to-wall connections
and missing perimeter drainage system resulted
in moisture intrusion into the wood framing support
structure of the exterior walkway balcony of a loft
complex.
10555403;a1
A missing composite drainage plane or medium
on a below-grade parking garage plaza deck
structure resulted in standing water between the
structural concrete deck and the plaza wearing
surface.
13.2.6 Moisture detection (4): Plumbing breaks & leaks

Water from plumbing leaks can often lead to severe damage on a building structure.
Small leaks may be difficult to detect, but canover the yearspenetrate structural
walls and foundations to a degree where the building structure is beyond repair.
Using building thermography at an early stage when plumbing breaks and leaks are 13
suspected can lead to substantial savings on material and labor.

This section includes a few typical infrared images of plumbing breaks & leaks.
10555503;a1
Moisture migration tracking along steel joist chan-
nels inside ceiling of a single family home where
a plumbing line had ruptured.
10555603;a1
Water from plumbing leak was found to have mi-
grated farther than originally anticipated by the
contractor during remediation techniques of cutting
back carpet and installing dehumidifiers.
13

10555703;a1
The infrared image of this vinyl-sided 3-floor
apartment house clearly shows the path of a seri-
ous leak from a washing machine on the third floor,
which is completely hidden within the wall.
10555803;a1
Water leak due to improper sealing between floor
drain and tiles.
13
13.2.7 Air infiltration

Due to the wind pressure on a building, temperature differences between the inside
and the outside of the building, and the fact that most buildings use exhaust air terminal
devices to extract used air from the building, a negative pressure of 25 Pa can be
expected. When this negative pressure leads to cold air entering the building structure
due to deficiencies in building insulation and/or building sealing, we have what is
called air infiltration. Air infiltration can be expected at joints and seams in the building
structure.
Due to the fact that air infiltration creates an air flow of cool air into e.g. a room, it can
lead to substantial deterioration of the indoor climate. Air flows as small as 0.15 m/s
(0.49 ft./s) are usually noticed by inhabitants, although these air flows may be difficult
to detect using ordinary measurement devices.
On an infrared image air infiltration can be identified by its typical ray pattern, which
emanates from the point of exit in the building structuree.g. from behind a skirting
strip. Furthermore, areas of air infiltration typically have a lower detected temperature
than areas where there is only an insulation deficiency. This is due to the chill factor
of the air flow.
This section includes a few typical examples of details of building structures where
air infiltration may occur.
10552503;a2
Insulation deficiencies at the eaves of a brickwall
house due to improperly installed fiberglass insu-
lation batts.
The air infiltration enters the room from behind the
cornice.
13

10552303;a2
Insulation deficiencies in an intermediate flow due
to improperly installed fiberglass insulation batts.
The air infiltration enters the room from behind the
cornice.
10552603;a2
Air infiltration in a concrete floor-over-crawl-space
due to cracks in the brick wall faade.
The air infiltration enters the room beneath the
skirting strip.
13

This section includes a few typical infrared images of details of building structures
where air infiltration has occurred.
10552703;a1
Air infiltration from behind a skirting strip. Note the
typical ray pattern.
10552803;a1
The white area to the left is a radiator.
10552903;a1
13
13.2.8 Insulation deficiencies

Insulation deficiencies do not necessarily lead to air infiltration. If fiberglass insulation
batts are improperly installed air pockets will form in the building structure. Since
these air pockets have a different thermal conductivity than areas where the insulation
batts are properly installed, the air pockets can be detected during a building ther-
mography inspection.
As a rule of thumb, areas with insulation deficiencies typically have higher temperatures
than where there is only an air infiltration.
When carrying out building thermography inspections aimed at detecting insulation
deficiencies, be aware of the following parts in a building structure, which may look
like insulation deficiencies on the infrared image:
Wooden joists, studs, rafter, beams
Steel girders and steel beams
Water piping inside walls, ceilings, floors
Electrical installations inside walls, ceilings, floorssuch as trunking, piping etc.
Concrete columns inside timber framed walls
Ventilation ducts & air ducts
This section includes a few typical examples of details of building structures with in-
sulation deficiencies:
10553203;a2
Insulation deficiencies (and air infiltration) due to
improper installation of insulation batts around an
electrical mains supply.
This kind of insulation deficiency will show up as
dark areas on an infrared image.
13

10553103;a2
Insulation deficiencies due to improper installation
of insulation batts around an attic floor beam. Cool
air infiltrates the structure and cools down the in-
side of the ceiling.
10553003;a2
Insulation deficiencies due to improper installation
of insulation batts creating an air pocket on the
outside of an inclined ceiling.
13

This section includes a few typical infrared images of insulation deficiencies.
10553303;a1
Insulation deficiencies in an intermediate floor
structure. The deficiency may be due to either
missing insulation batts or improperly installed in-
sulations batts (air pockets).
10553403;a1
Improperly installed fiberglass batts in a suspend-
ed ceiling.
13

10553503;a1
Insulation deficiencies in an intermediate floor
structure. The deficiency may be due to either
missing insulation batts or improperly installed in-
sulations batts (air pockets).
13
13.3 Theory of building science

13.3.1 General information
The demand for energy-efficient constructions has increased significantly in recent
times. Developments in the field of energy, together with the demand for pleasant
indoor environments, have resulted in ever-greater significance having to be attached
to both the function of a buildings thermal insulation and airtightness and the efficiency
of its heating and ventilation systems.
Defective insulation and tightness in highly insulated and airtight structures can have
a great impact on energy losses. Defects in a buildings thermal insulation and airtight-
ness do not merely entail risk of excessive heating and maintenance costs, they also
create the conditions for a poor indoor climate.
A buildings degree of insulation is often stated in the form of a thermal resistance or
a coefficient of thermal transmittance (U value) for the various parts of the building.
However, the stated thermal resistance values rarely provide a measure of the actual
energy losses in a building. Air leakage from joints and connections that are not airtight
and insufficiently filled with insulation often gives rise to considerable deviations from
the designed and expected values.
Verification that individual materials and building elements have the promised prop-
erties is provided by means of laboratory tests. Completed buildings have to be
checked and inspected in order to ensure that their intended insulation and airtightness
functions are actually achieved.
In its structural engineering application, thermography is used to study temperature
variations over the surfaces of a structure. Variations in the structures thermal resis-
tance can, under certain conditions, produce temperature variations on its surfaces.
Leakage of cold (or warm) air through the structure also affects the variation in surface
temperature. This means that insulation defects, thermal bridges and air leaks in a
buildings enclosing structural components can be located and surveyed.
Thermography itself does not directly show the structures thermal resistance or air-
tightness. Where quantification of thermal resistance or airtightness is required, addi-
tional measurements have also to be taken. Thermographic analysis of buildings relies
on certain prerequisites in terms of temperature and pressure conditions across the
structure.
13
Details, shapes and contrasts in the thermal image can vary quite clearly with changes
in any of these parameters. The in-depth analysis and interpretation of thermal images
therefore requires thorough knowledge of such aspects as material and structural
properties, the effects of climate and the latest measuring techniques. For assessing
the results of measurements, there are special requirements in terms of the skills and
experience of those taking the measurements, e.g. by means of authorization by a
national or regional standardization body.
13.3.2 The effects of testing and checking
It can be difficult to anticipate how well the thermal insulation and airtightness of a
completed building will work. There are certain factors involved in assembling the
various components and building elements that can have a considerable impact on
the final result. The effects of transport, handling and storage at the site and the way
the work is done cannot be calculated in advance. To ensure that the intended function
is actually achieved, verification by testing and checking the completed building is
required.
Modern insulation technology has reduced the theoretical heat requirement. This
does mean, however, that defects that are relatively minor, but at important locations,
e.g. leaking joints or incorrectly installed insulation, can have considerable conse-
quences in terms both of heat and comfort. Verification tests, e.g. by means of ther-
mography, have proved their value, from the point of view both of the designer and
the contractor and of the developer, the property manager and the user.
For the designer, the important thing is to find out about the function of various
types of structures, so that they can be designed to take into account both working
methods and functional requirements. The designer must also know how different
materials and combinations of materials function in practice. Effective testing and
checking, as well as experiential feedback, can be used to achieve the required
development in this area.
The contractor is keen on more testing and inspection in order to ensure that the
structures keep to an expected function that corresponds to established require-
ments in the regulations issued by authorities and in contractual documents. The
contractor wants to know at an early stage of construction about any changes that
may be necessary so that systematic defects can be prevented. During construction,
a check should therefore be carried out on the first apartments completed in a
mass production project. Similar checking then follows as production continues.
In this way systematic defects can be prevented and unnecessary costs and future
problems can be avoided. This check is of benefit both to manufacturers and to
users.
For the developer and the property manager it is essential that buildings are checked
13 with reference to heat economy, maintenance (damage from moisture or moisture
infiltration) and comfort for the occupants (e.g. cooled surfaces and air movements
in occupied zones).
For the user the important thing is that the finished product fulfills the promised
requirements in terms of the buildings thermal insulation and airtightness. For the
individual, buying a house involves a considerable financial commitment, and the
purchaser therefore wants to know that any defects in the construction will not in-
volve serious financial consequences or hygiene problems.
The effects of testing and checking a buildings insulation and airtightness are partly
physiological and partly financial.
The physiological experience of an indoor climatic environment is very subjective,
varying according to the particular human bodys heat balance and the way the indi-
vidual experiences temperature. The experience of climate depends on both the indoor
air temperature and that of the surrounding surfaces. The speed of movement and
moisture content of indoor air are also of some significance. Physiologically, a draft
produces the sensation of local cooling of the bodys surface caused by
excessive air movements in the occupied zone with normal air temperature;
normal air movements in the occupied zone but a room temperature that is too
low;
substantial radiated heat exchange with a cold surface.
It is difficult to assess the quantitative effects of testing and checking a buildings
thermal insulation.
Investigations have shown that defects found in the thermal insulation and airtightness
of buildings cause heat losses that are about 2030% more than was expected.
Monitoring energy consumption before and after remedial measures in relatively large
complexes of small houses and in multi-dwelling blocks has also demonstrated this.
The figures quoted are probably not representative of buildings in general, since the
investigation data cannot be said to be significant for the entire building stock. A
cautious assessment however would be that effectively testing and checking a
buildings thermal insulation and airtightness can result in a reduction in energy
consumption of about 10%.
Research has also shown that increased energy consumption associated with defects
is often caused by occupants increasing the indoor temperature by one or a few de-
grees above normal to compensate for the effect of annoying thermal radiation towards
cooled surfaces or a sensation of disturbing air movements in a room.
13.3.3 Sources of disruption in thermography 13
During thermography, the risk of confusing temperature variations caused by insulation
defects with those associated with the natural variation in U values along warm sur-
faces of a structure is considered slight under normal conditions.
The temperature changes associated with variations in the U value are generally
gradual and symmetrically distributed across the surface. Variations of this kind do
of course occur at the angles formed by roofs and floors and at the corners of walls.
Temperature changes associated with air leaks or insulation defects are in most
cases more evident with characteristically shaped sharp contours. The temperature
pattern is usually asymmetrical.
During thermography and when interpreting an infrared image, comparison infrared
images can provide valuable information for assessment.
The sources of disruption in thermography that occur most commonly in practice are
the effect of the sun on the surface being thermographed (sunlight shining in
through a window);
hot radiators with pipes;
lights directed at, or placed near, the surface being measured;
air flows (e.g. from air intakes) directed at the surface;
the effect of moisture deposits on the surface.
Surfaces on which the sun is shining should not be subjected to thermography. If
there is a risk of an effect by sunlight, windows should be covered up (closing Venetian
blinds). However, be aware that there are building defects or problems (typically
moisture problems) that only show up when heat has been applied to the surface,
e.g. from the sun.
For more information about moisture detection, see section 13.2.2 About moisture
detection on page 73.
A hot radiator appears as a bright light surface in an infrared image. The surface
temperature of a wall next to a radiator is raised, which may conceal any defects
present.
For maximum prevention of disruptive effects from hot radiators, these may be shut
off a short while before the measurement is taken. However, depending on the con-
struction of the building (low or high mass), these may need to be shut off several
hours before a thermographic survey. The room air temperature must not fall so much
as to affect the surface temperature distribution on the structures surfaces. There is
little timelag with electric radiators, so they cool down relatively quickly once they
have been switched off (2030 minutes).
13
Lights placed against walls should be switched off when the infrared image is taken.
During thermography there should not be any disruptive air flows (e.g. open windows,
open valves, fans directed at the surface being measured) that could affect the surfaces
being thermographed.
Any wet surfaces, e.g. as a result of surface condensation, have a definite effect on
heat transfer at the surface and the surface temperature. Where there is moisture on
a surface, there is usually some evaporation which draws off heat, thus lowering the
temperature of the surface by several degrees. There is risk of surface condensation
at major thermal bridges and insulation defects.
Significant disruptions of the kind described here can normally be detected and
eliminated before measuring.
If during thermography it is not possible to shield surfaces being measured from
disruptive factors, these must be taken into account when interpreting and evaluating
the results. The conditions in which the thermography was carried out should be
recorded in detail when each measurement is taken.
13.3.4 Surface temperature and air leaks
Defects in building airtightness due to small gaps in the structure can be detected
by measuring the surface temperature. If there is a negative pressure in the building
under investigation, air flows into the space through leaks in the building. Cold air
flowing in through small gaps in a wall usually lowers the temperature in adjacent
areas of the wall. The result is that a cooled surface area with a characteristic shape
develops on the inside surface of the wall. Thermography can be used to detect
cooled surface areas. Air movements at the wall surface can be measured using an
air velocity indicator. If there is a positive pressure inside the building being investi-
gated, warm room air will leak out through gaps in the wall, resulting in locally warm
surface areas around the locations of the leaks.
The amount of leakage depends partly on gaps and partly on the differential pressure
across the structure.
13.3.4.1 Pressure conditions in a building
The most important causes of differential pressure across a structural element in a
building are
wind conditions around the building;
the effects of the ventilation system;
temperature differences between air inside and outside (thermal differential pres-
sure).
The actual pressure conditions inside a building are usually caused by a combination 13
of these factors.
The resultant pressure gradient across the various structural elements can be illustrated
by the figure on page 99. The irregular effects of wind on a building means that in
practice the pressure conditions may be relatively variable and complicated.
In a steady wind flow, Bernoullis Law applies:
where:
Air density in kg/m3
v Wind velocity in m/s
p Static pressure in Pa
and where:
denotes the dynamic pressure and p the static pressure. The total of these pressures
gives the total pressure.
Wind load against a surface makes the dynamic pressure become a static pressure
against the surface. The magnitude of this static pressure is determined by, amongst
other things, the shape of the surface and its angle to the wind direction.
The portion of the dynamic pressure that becomes a static pressure on the surface
(pstat) is determined by what is known as a stress concentration factor:
If is 1.23 kg/m3 (density of air at +15C (+59F)), this gives the following local
pressures in the wind flow:
13
10551803;a1
Figure 13.3 Distribution of resultant pressures on a buildings enclosing surfaces depending on wind effects,
ventilation and internal/external temperature difference. 1: Wind direction; Tu: Thermodynamic air temper-
ature outdoors in K; Ti: Thermodynamic air temperature indoors in K.
If the whole of the dynamic pressure becomes static pressure, then C = 1. Examples
of stress concentration factor distributions for a building with various wind directions
are shown in the figure on page 100.
The wind therefore causes an internal negative pressure on the windward side and
an internal positive pressure on the leeward side. The air pressure indoors depends
on the wind conditions, leaks in the building and how these are distributed in relation
to the wind direction. If the leaks in the building are evenly distributed, the internal
pressure may vary by 0.2 pstat. If most of the leaks are on the windward side, the
internal pressure increases somewhat. In the opposite case, with most of the leaks
on the leeward side, the internal pressure falls.
13
10551903;a1
Figure 13.4 Stress concentration factor (C) distributions for various wind directions and wind velocities
(v) relative to a building.
Wind conditions can vary substantially over time and between relatively closely situ-
ated locations. In thermography, such variations can have a clear effect on the mea-
surement results.
It has been demonstrated experimentally that the differential pressure on a faade
exposed to an average wind force of about 5 m/s (16.3 ft/s) will be about 10 Pa.
Mechanical ventilation results in a constant internal negative or positive pressure
(depending on the direction of the ventilation). Research has showed that the negative
pressure caused by mechanical extraction (kitchen fans) in small houses is usually
between 5 and 10 Pa. Where there is mechanical extraction of ventilation air, e.g. in
13 multi-dwelling blocks, the negative pressure is somewhat greater, 1050 Pa. Where
there is so-called balanced ventilation (mechanically controlled supply and extract
air), this is normally adjusted to produce a slight negative pressure inside (35 Pa).
The differential pressure caused by temperature differences, the so-called chimney
effect (airtightness differences of air at different temperatures) means that there is a
negative pressure in the buildings lower part and a positive pressure in the upper
part. At a certain height there is a neutral zone where the pressures on the inside and
outside are the same, see the figure on page 102. This differential pressure may be
described by the relationship:
p Air pressure differential within the structure in Pa
g 9.81 m/s2
u Air density in kg/m3
Tu Thermodynamic air temperature outdoors in K
Ti Thermodynamic air temperature indoors in K
h Distance from the neutral zone in meters
If u = 1.29 kg/m3 (density of air at a temperature of 273 K and 100 kPa), this pro-
duces:
With a difference of +25C (+77F) between the ambient internal and external tem-
peratures, the result is a differential pressure difference within the structure of about
1 Pa/m difference in height (= 3.28 Pa/ft.).
13
10552003;a1
Figure 13.5 Distribution of pressures on a building with two openings and where the external temperature
is lower than the internal temperature. 1: Neutral zone; 2: Positive pressure; 3: Negative pressure;
h: Distance from the neutral zone in meters.
The position of the neutral zone may vary, depending on any leaks in the building. If
the leaks are evenly distributed vertically, this zone will be about halfway up the
building. If more of the leaks are in the lower part of the building, the neutral zone will
move downwards. If more of the leaks are in the upper part, it will move upwards.
Where a chimney opens above the roof, this has a considerable effect on the position
of the neutral zone, and the result may be a negative pressure throughout the building.
This situation most commonly occurs in small buildings.
13
In a larger building, such as a tall industrial building, with leaks at doors and any
windows in the lower part of the building, the neutral zone is about one-third of the
way up the building.
13.3.5 Measuring conditions & measuring season

The foregoing may be summarized as follows as to the requirements with regard to
measuring conditions when carrying out thermographic imaging of buildings.
Thermographic imaging is done in such a way that the disruptive influence from ex-
ternal climatic factors is as slight as possible. The imaging process is therefore carried
out indoors, i.e. where a building is heated, the structures warm surfaces are exam-
ined.
Outdoor thermography is only used to obtain reference measurements of larger
faade surfaces. In certain cases, e.g. where the thermal insulation is very bad or
where there is an internal positive pressure, outdoor measurements may be useful.
Even when investigating the effects of installations located within the buildings climatic
envelope, there may be justification for thermographic imaging from outside the
building.
The following conditions are recommended:
The air temperature difference within the relevant part of the building must be at
least +10C (+18F) for a number of hours before thermographic imaging and for
as long as the procedure takes. For the same period, the ambient temperature
difference must not vary by more than 30% of the difference when the thermo-
graphic imaging starts. During the thermographic imaging, the indoor ambient
temperature should not change by more than 2C (3.6F).
For a number of hours prior before thermographic imaging and as long as it con-
tinues, no influencing sunlight may fall upon the relevant part of the building.
Negative pressure within the structure 1050 Pa.
When conducting thermographic imaging in order to locate only air leaks in the
buildings enclosing sections, the requirements in terms of measuring conditions
may be lower. A difference of 5C (9F) between the inside and outside ambient
temperatures ought to be sufficient for detecting such defects. To be able to detect
air leaks, certain requirements must however be made with regard to the differential
pressure; about 10 Pa should be sufficient.
13.3.6 Interpretation of infrared images
The main purpose of thermography is to locate faults and defects in thermal insulation
in exterior walls and floor structures and to determine their nature and extent. The
measuring task can also be formulated in such a way that the aim of the thermography 13
is to confirm whether or not the wall examined has the promised insulation and air-
tightness characteristics. The promised thermal insulation characteristics for the wall
according to the design can be converted into an expected surface temperature dis-
tribution for the surface under investigation if the measuring conditions at the time
when the measurements are taken are known.
In practice the method involves the following:

Laboratory or field tests are used to produce an expected temperature distribution in
the form of typical or comparative infrared images for common wall structures, com-
prising both defect-free structures and structures with in-built defects.
Examples of typical infrared images are shown in section 13.2 Typical field investi-
gations on page 71.
If infrared images of structural sections taken during field measurements are intended
for use as comparison infrared images, then the structures composition, the way it
was built, and the measurement conditions at the time the infrared image was taken
must be known in detail and documented.
In order, during thermography, to be able to comment on the causes of deviations
from the expected results, the physical, metrological and structural engineering pre-
requisites must be known.
The interpretation of infrared images taken during field measurements may be de-
scribed in brief as follows:
A comparison infrared image for a defect-free structure is selected on the basis of
the wall structure under investigation and the conditions under which the field mea-
surement was taken. An infrared image of the building element under investigation
is then compared with the selected infrared image. Any deviation that cannot be ex-
plained by the design of the structure or the measurement conditions is noted as a
suspected insulation defect. The nature and extent of the defect is normally determined
using comparison infrared images showing various defects.
If no suitable comparison infrared image is available, evaluation and assessment are
done on the basis of experience. This requires more precise reasoning during the
analysis.
When assessing an infrared image, the following should be looked at:
Uniformity of brightness in infrared images of surface areas where there are no
thermal bridges
Regularity and occurrence of cooled surface areas, e.g. at studding and corners
Contours and characteristic shapes in the cooled surface area
Measured temperature differences between the structures normal surface temper-
13 ature and the selected cooled surface area
Continuity and uniformity of the isotherm curve on the surface of the structure. In
the camera software the isotherm function is called Isotherm or Color alarm, de-
pending on camera model.
Deviations and irregularities in the appearance of the infrared image often indicate
insulation defects. There may obviously be considerable variations in the appearance
of infrared images of structures with insulation defects. Certain types of insulation
defects have a characteristic shape on the infrared image.
Section 13.2 Typical field investigations on page 71 shows examples of interpreta-
tions of infrared images.
When taking infrared images of the same building, the infrared images from different
areas should be taken with the same settings on the infrared camera, as this makes
comparison of the various surface areas easier.
13.3.7 Humidity & dew point
13.3.7.1 Relative & absolute humidity
Humidity can be expressed in two different wayseither as relative humidity or as
absolute humidity. Relative humidity is expressed in percent of how much water a
certain volume of air can hold at a certain temperature, while absolute humidity is
expressed in percent water by weight of material. The latter way to express humidity
is common when measuring humidity in wood and other building materials.
The higher the temperature of air, the larger the amount of water this certain volume
of air can hold. The following table specifies the maximum amounts of water in air at
different temperatures.
Figure 13.6 A: Temperature in degrees Celsius; B: Maximum amount of water expressed in g/m3 (at sea
level)
A B A B A B A B
30.0 30.44 20.0 17.33 10.0 9.42 0.0 4.86
29.0 28.83 19.0 16.34 9.0 8.84 -1.0 4.49
28.0 27.29 18.0 15.40 8.0 8.29 -2.0 4.15
27.0 25.83 17.0 14.51 7.0 7.77 -3.0 3.83
26.0 24.43 16.0 13.66 6.0 7.28 -4.0 3.53
25.0 23.10 15.0 12.86 5.0 6.81 -5.0 3.26
24.0 21.83 14.0 12.09 4.0 6.38 -6.0 3.00
23.0 20.62 13.0 11.37 3.0 5.96 -7.0 2.76 13

22.0 19.47 12.0 10.69 2.0 5.57 -8.0 2.54
21.0 18.38 11.0 10.04 1.0 5.21 -9.0 2.34
Figure 13.7 A: Temperature in degrees Fahrenheit; B: Maximum amount of water in gr/ft3 (at sea level)
A B A B A B A B
86.0 13.30 68.0 7.58 50.0 4.12 32.0 2.12
84.2 12.60 66.2 7.14 48.2 3.86 30.2 1.96
82.4 11.93 64.4 6.73 46.4 3.62 28.4 1.81
80.6 11.29 62.6 6.34 44.6 3.40 26.6 1.67
78.8 10.68 60.8 5.97 42.8 3.18 24.8 1.54
77.0 10.10 59.0 5.62 41.0 2.98 23.0. 1.42
75.2 9.54 57.2 5.29 39.2 2.79 21.2 1.31
73.4 9.01 55.4 4.97 37.4 2.61 19.4 1.21
71.6 8.51 53.6 4.67 35.6 2.44 17.6 1.11
69.8 8.03 51.8 4.39 33.8 2.28 15.8 1.02
Example:
The relative humidity of a certain volume of air at a temperature of +30C (+86F) is
40 % RH. Amount of water in 1 m3 (35.31 ft3) of air at +30C = 30.44 Rel Humidity
= 30.44 0.40 = 12.18 g (187.96 gr).
13.3.7.2 Definition of dew point
Dew point is the temperature at which the humidity in a certain volume of air will
condense as liquid water.
Example:
The relative humidity of a certain volume of air at a temperature of +30C (+86F) is
40 % RH. Amount of water in 1 m3 (35.31 ft3) of air at +30C = 30.44 Rel Humidity
= 30.44 0.40 = 12.18 g (187.96 gr). In the table above, look up the temperature
for which the amount of water in air is closest to 12.18 g. This would be +14.0C
(+57.2F), which is the approximate dew point.
13.3.8 Excerpt from Technical Note Assessing thermal bridging and
insulation continuity (UK example)
13 13.3.8.1 Credits
This Technical Note was produced by a working group including expert thermogra-
phers, and research consultants. Additional consultation with other persons and or-
ganisations results in this document being widely accepted by all sides of industries.
The contents of this Technical Note is reproduced with kind permission from, and
fully copyrighted to, United Kingdom Thermography Association (UKTA).
UK Thermography Association
c/o British Institute of Nondestructive Testing
1 Spencer Parade
Northampton NN1 5AA
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)1604 630124
Fax: +44 (0)1604 231489
13.3.8.2 Introduction
Over the last few years the equipment, applications, software, and understanding
connected with thermography have all developed at an astonishing rate. As the
technology has gradually become integrated into mainstream practises, a correspond-
ing demand for application guides, standards and thermography training has arisen.
The UKTA is publishing this technical note in order to establish a consistent approach
to quantifying the results for a Continuity of Thermal Insulation examination. It is in-
tended that specifiers should refer to this document as a guide to satisfying the re-
quirement in the Building Regulations, therefore enabling the qualified thermographer
to issue a pass or fail report.
13.3.8.3 Background information
Thermography can detect surface temperature variations as small as 0.1 K and
graphic images can be produced that visibly illustrate the distribution of temperature
on building surfaces.
Variations in the thermal properties of building structures, such as poorly fitted or
missing sections of insulation, cause variations in surface temperature on both sides
of the structure. They are therefore visible to the thermographer. However, many
other factors such as local heat sources, reflections and air leakage can also cause
surface temperature variations.
The professional judgement of the thermographer is usually required to differentiate
between real faults and other sources of temperature variation. Increasingly, thermo-
graphers are asked to justify their assessment of building structures and, in the ab-
sence of adequate guidance, it can be difficult to set definite levels for acceptable or
unacceptable variation in temperature.
The current Standard for thermal iamging of building fabric in the UK is BS EN 13
13187:1999 (BS EN 13187:1999, Thermal Performance of BuildingsQualitative de-
tection of thermal properties in building envelopesInfrared method (ISO 6781:1983
modified). However, this leaves interpretation of the thermal image to the professional
expertise of of the thermographer and provides little guidance on the demarcation
between acceptable and unacceptable variations. Guidance on the appearance of a
range of thermal anomalies can be found in BINDT Guides to thermal imaging (Infrared
Thermography Handbook; Volume 1, Principles and Practise, Norman Walker, ISBN
0903132338, Volume 2, Applications, A. N. Nowicki, ISBN 090313232X, BINDT, 2005).
13.3.8.3.1 Requirements
A thermographic survey to demonstrate continuity of insulation, areas of thermal
bridging and compliance with Building Regulations should include the following:
Thermal anomalies.
Differentiate between real thermal anomalies, where temperature differences are
caused by deficiencies in thermal insulation, and those that occur through con-
founding factors such as localised differences in air movement, reflection and
emissivity.
Quantify affected areas in relation to the total insulated areas.
State whether the anomalies and the building thermal insulation as a whole are
acceptable.
13.3.8.4 Quantitative appraisal of thermal anomalies
A thermographic survey will show differences in apparent temperature of areas within
the field of view. To be useful, however, it must systematically detect all the apparent
defects; assess them against a predetermined set of criteria; reliably discount those
anomalies that are not real defects; evaluate those that are real defects, and report
the results to the client.
13.3.8.4.1 Selection of critical temperature parameter
The BRE information Paper IP17/01 (Information Paper IP17/01, Assessing the Effects
of Thermal Bridging at Junctions and Around Openings. Tim Ward, BRE, 2001) pro-
vides useful guidance on minimum acceptable internal surface temperatures and
appropriate values of Critical Surface Temperature Factor, fCRsi. The use of a surface
temperature factor allows surveys under any thermal conditions to show areas that
are at risk of condensation or mould growth under design conditions.
The actual surface temperature will depend greatly on the temperatures inside and
outside at the time of the survey, but a Surface Temperature Factor (fRsi) has been
devised that is independent of the absolute conditions. It is a ratio of temperature
drop across the building fabric to the total temperature drop between inside and
outside air.
13
For internal surveys: fRsi = (Tsi Te)/(Ti Te)
Tsi = internal surface temperature
Ti = internal air temperature
Te = external air temperature
A value for fCRsi of 0.75 is considered appropriate across new building as the upper
end usage is not a factor considered in testing for Continuity of Insulation, or Thermal
Bridging. However, when considering refurbished or extended buildings, for example
swimming pools, internal surveys may need to account for unusal circumstances.
13.3.8.4.2 Alternative method using only surface temperatures
There are strong arguments for basing thermographic surveys on surface temperatures
alone, with no need to measure air temperature.
Stratification inside the building makes reference to air internal temperatures very
difficult. Is it mean air temperature, low level, high level or temperature at the level
of the anomaly and how far from the wall should it be measured?
Radiation effects, such as radiation to the night sky, make use of of external air
temperature difficult. It is not unusual for the outside surface of building fabric to
be below air temperature because of radiation to the sky which may be as low as
50 (58). This can be seen with the naked eye by the fact that dew and frost
often appear on building surfaces even when the air temperature does not drop
below the dewpoint.
It should be noted that the concept of U values is based on environmental temper-
atures on each side of the structure. This is neglected by many inexperienced
analysts.
The two temperatures that are firmly related to the transfer of heat through building
fabric (and any solid) are the surface temperatures on each side.
Therefore, by referring to surface temperatures the survey is more repeatable.
The surface temperatures used are the averages of surface temperatures on the
same material in an area near the anomaly on the inside and the outside of the
fabric. Together with the temperature of the anomaly, a threshold level can be set
dependent on these temperatures using the critical surface temperature factor.
These arguments do not obviate the need for the thermographer to beware of re-
flections of objects at unusual temperatures in the background facing the building
fabric surfaces.
The thermographer should also use a comparison between external faces facing
different directions to determine whether there is residual heat from solar gain af-
fecting the external surfaces.
External surveys should not be conducted on a surface where Tsi Tso on the face
is more than 10% greater than Tsi Tso on the north or nearest to north face.
For a defect that causes a failure under the 0.75 condition of IP17/01 the critical
13
surface factors are 0.78 on the inside surface and 0.93 on the outside surface.
The table below shows the internal and external surface temperatures at an anomaly
which would lead to failure under IP17/01. It also shows the deterioration in thermal
insulation that is necessary to cause this.
Example for lightweight built-up cladding with defective Good area Failing area
insulation
Outside temperature in 0 0
Inside surface temperature in 19.1 15.0
Outside surface temperature in 0.3 1.5
Surface factor from IP17/01 0.95 0.75
Critical external surface temperature factor, after IP17/01 0.92
Insulation thickness to give this level of performance, mm 80 5.1
Local U value W/m2K 0.35 1.92
UKTA TN1 surface factor 0.78
UKTA TN1 surface factor outside 0.93
Notes to the table

1 Values of surface resistances taken from ADL2 2001, are:
Inside surface 0.13 m2K/W
Outside surface 0.04 m2K/W
These originate from BS EN ISO 6946 (BN EN ISO 6946:1997 Building components
and building elements - Thermal resistance and thermal transmittance - Calculation
method).
2 Thermal insulation used here is assumed to have a conductivity of 0.03 W/m K.
3 The difference in temperature between an anomaly and the good areas is 1.2 de-
grees on the outside and 4.1 degrees on the inside.
4 The UKTA TN1 surface temperature factor for internal surveys is:
Fsi = (Tsia Tso)/(Tsi Tso)
where:
Tsia = internal surface temperature at anomaly
Tso = external surface temperature (good area)
Tsi = internal surface temperature (good area)
5 The UKTA TN1 surface temperature factor for external surveys is:
Fso = (Tsoa Tsi)/(Tso Tsi)
where Tsoa = external surface temperature at anomaly
13
13.3.8.4.3 Selecting maximum acceptable defect area
The allowable area of defect is a quality control issue. It can be argued that there
should be no area on which condensation, mould growth or defective insulation will
occur and any such anomalies should be included in the report. However, a commonly
used value of 0.1% of the building exposed surface area is generally accepted as the
maximum combined defect area allowable to comply with the Building Regulations.
This represents one square metre in every thousand.
13.3.8.4.4 Measuring surface temperature
Measurement of surface temperature is the function of the infrared imaging system.
The trained thermographer will recognise, account for and report on the variation of
emissivity and reflectivity of the surfaces under consideration.
13.3.8.4.5 Measuring area of the defects
Measurement of defect area can be performed by pixel counting in the thermal anal-
ysis software or most spreadhseet packages provided that:
the distance from camera to object is accurately measured probably using a laser
measurement system,
the target distance should take into account the IFOV of the imaging system,
any angular change between the camera and the object surface from the perpen-
dicular is accounted for.
Buildings consist of numerous construction features that are not conducive to quan-
titative surveys including windows, roof lights, luminaries, heat emitters, cooling
equipment, service pipes and electrical conductors. However, the joints and connec-
tions between these objects and the building envelope should be considered as part
of the survey.
13.3.8.5 Conditions and equipment
To achieve best results from a thermal insulation survey it is important to consider
the environmental conditions and to use the most appropriate thermographic technique
for the task.
Thermal anomalies will only present themselves to the thermographer where temper-
ature differences exist and environmental phenomena are accounted for. As a mini-
mum, the following conditions should be complied with:
Temperature differences across the building fabric to be greater than 10 (18).
Internal air to ambient air temperature difference to be greater than 5 (9) for
the last twentyfour hours before survey.
External air temperature to be within 3 (5.4) for duration of survey and for
the previous hour. 13
External air temperature to be within 10 (18) for the preceding twentyfour
hours.
In addition, external surveys should also comply with the following:
Necessary surfaces free from direct solar radiation and the residual effects of past
solar radiation. This can be checked by comparing the surface temperatures of
opposite sides of the building.
No precipitation either just prior to or during the survey.
Ensure all building surfaces to be inspected are dry.
Wind speed to be less than 10 metres / second (19.5 kn.).
As well as temperature, there are other environmental conditions that should also be
taken into account when planning a thermographic building survey. External inspec-
tions, for example, may be influenced by radiation emissions and reflections from
adjacent buildings or a cold clear sky, and even more significantly the heating effect
that the sun may have on surface.
Additionally, where background temperatures differ from air temperatures either inter-
nally or externally by more than 5 K, then background temperatures should be mea-
sured on all effected surfaces to allow surface temperature to be measured with suf-
ficient accuracy.
13.3.8.6 Survey and analysis
The following provides some operational guidance to the thermographic operator.
The survey must collect sufficient thermographic information to demonstrate that all
surfaces have been inspected in order that all thermal anomalies are reported and
evaluated.
Initially, environmental data must be collected, as with any thermographic survey in-
cluding:
Internal tempetarture in the region of the anomaly.
External temperature in the region of the anomaly.
Emissivity of the surface.
Background temperature.
Distance from the surface.
By interpolation, determine the threshold temperature to be used.
For internal surveys the threshold surface temperature (Tsia) is Tsia = fsi(Tsi Tso)
+ Tso. The thermographer will be looking for evidence of surface temperature below
this threshold.
13 For external surveys the threshold temperature (Tsoa) is Tsoa = fso(Tso Tsi) + Tsi.
The thermographer will be looking for evidence of surface temperature above this
threshold.
Images of anomalies must be captured in such a way that they are suitable for analysis:
The image is square to any features of the wall or roof.
The viewing angle is nearly perpendicular to the surface being imaged. Interfering
sources of infrared radiation such as lights, heat emitters, electric conductors, re-
flective elements are minimised.
The method of analysis will depend somewhat on analysis software used, but the key
stages are as follows:
Produce an image of each anomaly or cluster of anomalies.
Use a software analysis tool to enclose the anomalous area within the image, taking
care not to include construction details that are to be excluded.
Calculate the area below the threshold temperature for internal surveys or above
the threshold temperature for external surveys. This is the defect area. Some
anomalies that appeared to be defects at the time of the survey may not show defect
areas at this stage.
Add the defect areas from all the images Ad.
Calculate the total area of exposed building fabric. This is the surface area of all
the walls and roof. It is conventional to use the external surface area. For a simple
shape building this is calculated from overall width, length and height.
At = (2h(L + w)) + (Lw)
Identify the critical defect area Ac. Provisionally this is set at one thousandth or
0.1% of the total surface area.
Ac = At/1000
If Ad < Ac the building as a whole can be considered to have reasonably contin-
uous insulation.
13.3.8.7 Reporting
Reports should certificate a pass/fail result, comply with customers requirements and
as a minimum include the information required by BSEN 13187. The following data
is normally required so that survey can be repeated following remedial action.
Background to the objective and principles of the test.
Location, orientation, date and time of survey.
A unique identifying reference.
Thermographers name and qualifications.
Type of construction.
Weather conditions, wind speed and direction, last precipitation, sunshine, degree
of cloud cover.
Ambient temperatures inside and outside before, at the beginning of survey and 13
the time of each image. Air temperature and radiant temperature should be
recorded.
Statement of any deviation from relevant test requirements.
Equipment used, last calibration date, any knows defects.
Name, affiliation and qualifications of tester.
Type, extent and position of each observed defect.

Results of any supplementary measurements and investigations.
Reports should be indexed and archived by thermographers.
13.3.8.7.1 Considerations and limitations
The choice between internal and external surveys will depend on:
Access to the surface. Buildings where both the internal and the external surfaces
are obscured, e.g., by false ceilings racking or materials stacked against walls may
not be amenable to this type of survey.
Location of the thermal insulation. Surveys are usually more effective from the side
nearest to the thermal insulation.
Location of heavyweight materials. Surveys are usually less effective from the side
nearest to the heavyweight material.
The purpose of the survey. If the survey aims to show risk of condensation and
mould growth it should be internal.
Location of glass, bare metal or other materials that may be highly reflective. Surveys
are usually less effective on highly reflective surfaces.
A defect will usually produce a smaller temperature difference on the outside of a
wall exposed to external air movement. However, missing or defective insulation
near the external surface can often be more readily indentified externally.
13
13.4 Disclaimer
13.4.1 Copyright notice
Some sections and/or images appearing in this chapter are copyrighted to the follow-
ing organizations and companies:
FORMASThe Swedish Research Council for Environment, Agricultural Sciences
and Spatial Planning, Stockholm, Sweden
ITCInfrared Training Center, Boston, MA, United States
Stockton Infrared Thermographic Services, Inc., Randleman, NC, United States
Professional Investigative Engineers, Westminster, CO, United States
United Kingdom Thermography Association (UKTA)
13.4.2 Training & certification
Carrying out building thermography inspections requires substantial training
and experience, and may require certification from a national or regional stan-
dardization body. This section is provided only as an introduction to building
thermography. The user is strongly recommended to attend relevant training
courses.
For more information about infrared training, visit the following website:
http://www.infraredtraining.com
13.4.3 National or regional building codes
The commented building structures in this chapter may differ in construction from
country to country. For more information about construction details and standards
of procedure, always consult national or regional building codes.
13
13
14 Introduction to thermographic
inspections of electrical
installations
14.1 Important note
All camera functions and features that are described in this section may not be sup-
ported by your particular camera configuration.
Electrical regulations differ from country to country. For that reason, the electrical
procedures described in this section may not be the standard of procedure in your
particular country. Also, in many countries carrying out electrical inspections requires
formal qualification. Always consult national or regional electrical regulations.
14.2 General information

14.2.1 Introduction
Today, thermography is a well-established technique for the inspection of electrical
installations. This was the first and still is the largest. the largest application of ther-
mography. The infrared camera itself has gone through an explosive development
and we can say that today, the 8th generation of thermographic systems is available.
It all began in 1964, more than 40 years ago. The technique is now established
throughout the whole world. Industrialized countries as well as developing countries
have adopted this technique.
Thermography, in conjunction with vibration analysis, has over the latest decades
been the main method for fault diagnostics in the industry as a part of the preventive
maintenance program. The great advantage with these methods is that it is not only
possible to carry out the inspection on installations in operation; normal working
condition is in fact a prerequisite for a correct measurement result, so the ongoing
production process is not disturbed. Thermographic inspection of electrical installations
are used in three main areas:
Power generation
Power transmission
Power distribution, that is, industrial use of electrical energy.
The fact that these controls are carried out under normal operation conditions has 14
created a natural division between these groups. The power generation companies
measure during the periods of high load. These periods vary from country to country
14 Introduction to thermographic inspections of electrical installations
and for the climatic zones. The measurement periods may also differ depending on
the type of plant to be inspected, whether they are hydroelectric, nuclear, coal-based
or oil-based plants.
In the industry the inspections areat least in Nordic countries with clear seasonal
differencescarried out during spring or autumn or before longer stops in the oper-
ation. Thus, repairs are made when the operation is stopped anyway. However, this
seems to be the rule less and less, which has led to inspections of the plants under
varying load and operating conditions.
14.2.2 General equipment data
The equipment to be inspected has a certain temperature behavior that should be
known to the thermographer before the inspection takes place. In the case of electrical
equipment, the physical principle of why faults show a different temperature pattern
because of increased resistance or increased electrical current is well known.
However, it is useful to remember that, in some cases, for example solenoids, over-
heating is natural and does not correspond to a developing defect. In other cases,
like the connections in electrical motors, the overheating might depend on the fact
that the healthy part is taking the entire load and therefore becomes overheated.
A similar example is shown in section 14.5.7 Overheating in one part as a result of
a fault in another on page 133.
Defective parts of electrical equipment can therefore both indicate overheating and
be cooler than the normal healthy components. It is necessary to be aware of what
to expect by getting as much information as possible about the equipment before it
is inspected.
The general rule is, however, that a hot spot is caused by a probable defect. The
temperature and the load of that specific component at the moment of inspection will
give an indication of how serious the fault is and can become in other conditions.
Correct assessment in each specific case demands detailed information about the
thermal behavior of the components, that is, we need to know the maximum allowed
temperature of the materials involved and the role the component plays in the system.
Cable insulations, for example, lose their insulation properties above a certain tem-
perature, which increases the risk of fire.
In the case of breakers, where the temperature is too high, parts can melt and make
it impossible to open the breaker, thereby destroying its functionality.
14
The more the IR camera operator knows about the equipment that he or she is about
to inspect, the higher the quality of the inspection. But it is virtually impossible for an
IR thermographer to have detailed knowledge about all the different types of equipment
that can be controlled. It is therefore common practice that a person responsible for
the equipment is present during the inspection.
14.2.3 Inspection
The preparation of the inspection should include the choice of the right type of report.
It is often necessary to use complementary equipment such as ampere meters in order
to measure the current in the circuits where defects were found. An anemometer is
necessary if you want to measure the wind speed at inspection of outdoor equipment.
Automatic functions help the IR operator to visualize an IR image of the components
with the right contrast to allow easy identification of a fault or a hot spot. It is almost
impossible to miss a hot spot on a scanned component. A measurement function will
also automatically display the hottest spot within an area in the image or the difference
between the maximum temperature in the chosen area and a reference, which can
be chosen by the operator, for example the ambient temperature.
10712703;a3
Figure 14.1 An infrared and a visual image of a power line isolator
When the fault is clearly identified and the IR thermographer has made sure that it is
not a reflection or a naturally occurring hot spot, the collection of the data starts, which
will allow the correct reporting of the fault. The emissivity, the identification of the
component, and the actual working conditions, together with the measured tempera-
ture, will be used in the report. In order to make it easy to identify the component a
visual photo of the defect is often taken.
14.2.4 Classification & reporting
Reporting has traditionally been the most time-consuming part of the IR survey. A
one-day inspection could result in one or two days work to report and classify the
14
found defects. This is still the case for many thermographers, who have chosen not
to use the advantages that computers and modern reporting software have brought
to IR condition monitoring.
The classification of the defects gives a more detailed meaning that not only takes
into account the situation at the time of inspection (which is certainly of great impor-
tance), but also the possibility to normalize the over-temperature to standard load
and ambient temperature conditions.
An over-temperature of +30C (+86F) is certainly a significant fault. But if that over-
temperature is valid for one component working at 100% load and for another at 50%
load, it is obvious that the latter will reach a much higher temperature should its load
increase from 50% to 100%. Such a standard can be chosen by the plants circum-
stances. Very often, however, temperatures are predicted for 100% load. A standard
makes it easier to compare the faults over time and thus to make a more complete
classification.
14.2.5 Priority
Based on the classification of the defects, the maintenance manager gives the defects
a repair priority. Very often, the information gathered during the infrared survey is put
together with complementary information on the equipment collected by other means
such as vibration monitoring, ultrasound or the preventive maintenance scheduled.
Even if the IR inspection is quickly becoming the most used method of collecting in-
formation about electrical components safely with the equipment under normal oper-
ating conditions, there are many other sources of information the maintenance or the
production manager has to consider.
The priority of repair should therefore not be a task for the IR camera operator in the
normal case. If a critical situation is detected during the inspection or during the
classification of the defects, the attention of the maintenance manager should of
course be drawn to it, but the responsibility for determining the urgency of the repair
should be his.
14.2.6 Repair
To repair the known defects is the most important function of preventive maintenance.
However, to assure production at the right time or at the right cost can also be impor-
tant goals for a maintenance group. The information provided by the infrared survey
can be used to improve the repair efficiency as well as to reach the other goals with
a calculated risk.
To monitor the temperature of a known defect that can not be repaired immediately
for instance because spare parts are not available, can often pay for the cost of in-
spection a thousandfold and sometimes even for the IR camera. To decide not to
14 repair known defects to save on maintenance costs and avoid unnecessary downtime
is also another way of using the information from the IR survey in a productive way.
However, the most common result of the identification and classification of the detected
faults is a recommendation to repair immediately or as soon as it is practically possible.
It is important that the repair crew is aware of the physical principles for the identifica-
tion of defects. If a defect shows a high temperature and is in a critical situation, it is
very common that the repair personnel expect to find a highly corroded component.
It should also come as no surprise to the repair crew that a connection, which is
usually healthy, can give the same high temperatures as a corroded one if it has come
loose. These misinterpretations are quite common and risk putting in doubt the relia-
bility of the infrared survey.
14.2.7 Control
A repaired component should be controlled as soon as possible after the repair. It is
not efficient to wait for the next scheduled IR survey in order to combine a new inspec-
tion with the control of the repaired defects. The statistics on the effect of the repair
show that up to a third of the repaired defects still show overheating. That is the same
as saying that those defects present a potential risk of failure.
To wait until the next scheduled IR survey represents an unnecessary risk for the
plant.
Besides increasing the efficiency of the maintenance cycle (measured in terms of
lower risk for the plant) the immediate control of the repair work brings other advan-
tages to the performance of the repair crew itself.
When a defect still shows overheating after the repair, the determination of the cause
of overheating improves the repair procedure, helps choose the best component
suppliers and detect design shortcomings on the electrical installation. The crew
rapidly sees the effect of the work and can learn quickly both from successful repairs
and from mistakes.
Another reason to provide the repair crew with an IR instrument is that many of the
defects detected during the IR survey are of low gravity. Instead of repairing them,
which consumes maintenance and production time, it can be decided to keep these
defects under control. Therefore the maintenance personnel should have access to
their own IR equipment.
It is common to note on the report form the type of fault observed during the repair
as well as the action taken. These observations make an important source of experi-
ence that can be used to reduce stock, choose the best suppliers or to train new
maintenance personnel.
14
14.3 Measurement technique for thermographic inspection

of electrical installations
14.3.1 How to correctly set the equipment
A thermal image may show high temperature variations:
10712803;a4
Figure 14.2 Temperature variations in a fusebox
In the images above, the fuse to the right has a maximum temperature of +61C
(+142F), whereas the one to the left is maximum +32C (+90F) and the one in the
middle somewhere in between. The three images are different inasmuch as the tem-
perature scale enhances only one fuse in each image. However, it is the same image
and all the information about all three fuses is there. It is only a matter of setting the
temperature scale values.
14.3.2 Temperature measurement
Some cameras today can automatically find the highest temperature in the image.
The image below shows how it looks to the operator.
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Figure 14.3 An infrared image of a fusebox where the maximum temperature is displayed
The maximum temperature in the area is +62.2C (+144.0F). The spot meter shows
the exact location of the hot spot. The image can easily be stored in the camera
memory.
14 The correct temperature measurement depends, however, not only on the function
of the evaluation software or the camera. It may happen that the actual fault is, for
example, a connection, which is hidden from the camera in the position it happens
to be in for the moment. It might be so that you measure heat, which has been con-
ducted over some distance, whereas the real hot spot is hidden from you. An example
is shown in the image below.
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Figure 14.4 A hidden hot spot inside a box
Try to choose different angles and make sure that the hot area is seen in its full size,
that is, that it is not disappearing behind something that might hide the hottest spot.
In this image, the hottest spot of what the camera can see, is +83C (+181F), where
the operating temperature on the cables below the box is +60C (+140F). However,
the real hot spot is most probably hidden inside the box, see the in yellow encircled
area. This fault is reported as a +23.0C (+41.4F) excess temperature, but the real
problem is probably essentially hotter.
Another reason for underestimating the temperature of an object is bad focusing. It
is very important that the hot spot found is in focus. See the example below.
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Figure 14.5 LEFT: A hot spot in focus; RIGHT: A hot spot out of focus
In the left image, the lamp is in focus. Its average temperature is +64C (+147F). In
the right image, the lamp is out of focus, which will result in only +51C (+124F) as
the maximum temperature.
14
14.3.3 Comparative measurement

For thermographic inspections of electrical installations a special method is used,
which is based on comparison of different objects, so-called measurement with a
reference. This simply means that you compare the three phases with each other.
This method needs systematic scanning of the three phases in parallel in order to
assess whether a point differs from the normal temperature pattern.
A normal temperature pattern means that current carrying components have a given
operation temperature shown in a certain color (or gray tone) on the display, which
is usually identical for all three phases under symmetrical load. Minor differences in
the color might occur in the current path, for example, at the junction of two different
materials, at increasing or decreasing conductor areas or on circuit breakers where
the current path is encapsulated.
The image below shows three fuses, the temperatures of which are very close to each
other. The inserted isotherm actually shows less than +2C (+3.6F) temperature
difference between the phases.
Different colors are usually the result if the phases are carrying an unsymmetrical
load. This difference in colors does not represent any overheating since this does not
occur locally but is spread along the whole phase.
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Figure 14.6 An isotherm in an infrared image of a fusebox
A real hot spot, on the other hand, shows a rising temperature as you look closer
to the source of the heat. See the image below, where the profile (line) shows a
steadily increasing temperature up to about +93C (+199F) at the hot spot.
14
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Figure 14.7 A profile (line) in an infrared image and a graph displaying the increasing temperature
14.3.4 Normal operating temperature

Temperature measurement with thermography usually gives the absolute temperature
of the object. In order to correctly assess whether the component is too hot, it is
necessary to know its operating temperature, that is, its normal temperature if we
consider the load and the temperature of its environment.
As the direct measurement will give the absolute temperaturewhich must be con-
sidered as well (as most components have an upper limit to their absolute tempera-
tures)it is necessary to calculate the expected operating temperature given the load
and the ambient temperature. Consider the following definitions:
Operating temperature: the absolute temperature of the component. It depends
on the current load and the ambient temperature. It is always higher than the am-
bient temperature.
Excess temperature (overheating): the temperature difference between a properly
working component and a faulty one.
The excess temperature is found as the difference between the temperature of a
normal component and the temperature of its neighbor. It is important to compare
the same points on the different phases with each other.
As an example, see the following images taken from indoor equipment:
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14
Figure 14.8 An infrared image of indoor electrical equipment (1)
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Figure 14.9 An infrared image of indoor electrical equipment (2)
The two left phases are considered as normal, whereas the right phase shows a very
clear excess temperature. Actually, the operating temperature of the left phase is
+68C (+154F), that is, quite a substantial temperature, whereas the faulty phase
to the right shows a temperature of +86C (+187F). This means an excess temper-
ature of +18C (+33F), that is, a fault that has to be attended to quickly.
For practical reasons, the (normal, expected) operating temperature of a component
is taken as the temperature of the components in at least two out of three phases,
provided that you consider them to be working normally.. The most normal case is
of course that all three phases have the same or at least almost the same temperature.
The operating temperature of outdoor components in substations or power lines is
usually only 1C or 2C above the air temperature (1.8F or 3.6F). In indoor substa-
tions, the operating temperatures vary a lot more.
This fact is clearly shown by the bottom image as well. Here the left phase is the one,
which shows an excess temperature. The operating temperature, taken from the two
cold phases, is +66C (+151F). The faulty phase shows a temperature of +127C
(+261F), which has to be attended to without delay.
14.3.5 Classification of faults
Once a faulty connection is detected, corrective measures may be necessaryor
may not be necessary for the time being. In order to recommend the most appropriate
action the following criteria should be evaluated:
Load during the measurement
Even or varying load
Position of the faulty part in the electrical installation
Expected future load situation
Is the excess temperature measured directly on the faulty spot or indirectly through
14 conducted heat caused by some fault inside the apparatus?
Excess temperatures measured directly on the faulty part are usually divided into
three categories relating to 100% of the maximum load.
I < 5C (9F) The start of the overheat condi-

tion. This must be carefully
monitored.
II 530C (954F) Developed overheating. It must

be repaired as soon as possible
(but think about the load situa-
tion before a decision is made).
III >30C (54F) Acute overheating. Must be re-

paired immediately (but think
about the load situation before
a decision is made).
14
14.4 Reporting
Nowadays, thermographic inspections of electrical installations are probably, without
exception, documented and reported by the use of a report program. These programs,
which differ from one manufacturer to another, are usually directly adapted to the
cameras and will thus make reporting very quick and easy.
The program, which has been used for creating the report page shown below, is
called FLIR Reporter. It is adapted to several types of infrared cameras from FLIR
Systems.
A professional report is often divided into two sections:
Front pages, with facts about the inspection, such as:
Who the client is, for example, customers company name and contact person
Location of the inspection: site address, city, and so on
Date of inspection
Date of report
Name of thermographer
Signature of thermographer
Summary or table of contents
Inspection pages containing IR images to document and analyze thermal properties

or anomalies.
Identification of the inspected object:
What is the object: designation, name, number, and so on
Photo
IR image. When collecting IR images there are some details to consider:
Optical focus
Thermal adjustment of the scene or the problem (level & span)
Composition: proper observation distance and viewing angle.
Comment
Is there an anomaly or not?
Is there a reflection or not?
Use a measurement toolspot, area or isothermto quantify the problem.
Use the simplest tool possible; a profile graph is almost never needed in
electrical reports.
14
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Figure 14.10 A report example
14
14.5 Different types of hot spots in electrical installations

14.5.1 Reflections
The thermographic camera sees any radiation that enters the lens, not only originating
from the object that you are looking at, but also radiation that comes from other
sources and has been reflected by the target. Most of the time, electrical components
are like mirrors to the infrared radiation, even if it is not obvious to the eye. Bare
metal parts are particularly shiny, whereas painted, plastic or rubber insulated parts
are mostly not. In the image below, you can clearly see a reflection from the thermo-
grapher. This is of course not a hot spot on the object. A good way to find out if what
you see is a reflection or not, is for you to move. Look at the target from a different
angle and watch the hot spot. If it moves when you do, it is a reflection.
Measuring temperature of mirror like details is not possible. The object in the images
below has painted areas which are well suited for temperature measurement. The
material is copper, which is a very good heat conductor. This means that temperature
variation over the surface is small.
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Figure 14.11 Reflections in an object
14.5.2 Solar heating

The surface of a component with a high emissivity, for example, a breaker, can on a
hot summer day be heated up to quite considerable temperatures by irradiation from
the sun. The image shows a circuit breaker, which has been heated by the sun.
14
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Figure 14.12 An infrared image of a circuit breaker
14.5.3 Inductive heating

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Figure 14.13 An infrared image of hot stabilizing weights
Eddy currents can cause a hot spot in the current path. In cases of very high currents
and close proximity of other metals, this has in some cases caused serious fires. This
type of heating occurs in magnetic material around the current path, such as metallic
bottom plates for bushing insulators. In the image above, there are stabilizing weights,
through which a high current is running. These metal weights, which are made of a
slightly magnetic material, will not conduct any current but are exposed to the alter-
nating magnetic fields, which will eventually heat up the weight. The overheating in
the image is less than +5C (+9F). This, however, need not necessarily always be
the case.
14.5.4 Load variations
3-phase systems are the norm in electric utilities. When looking for overheated places,
it is easy to compare the three phases directly with each other, for example, cables,
breakers, insulators. An even load per phase should result in a uniform temperature
pattern for all three phases. A fault may be suspected in cases where the temperature
of one phase differs considerably from the remaining two. However, you should always
make sure that the load is indeed evenly distributed. Looking at fixed ampere meters 14
or using a clip-on ampere meter (up to 600 A) will tell you.
10714003;a3
Figure 14.14 Examples of infrared images of load variations
The image to the left shows three cables next to each other. They are so far apart that
they can be regarded as thermally insulated from each other. The one in the middle
is colder than the others. Unless two phases are faulty and overheated, this is a typical
example of a very unsymmetrical load. The temperature spreads evenly along the
cables, which indicates a load-dependent temperature increase rather than a faulty
connection.
The image to the right shows two bundles with very different loads. In fact, the bundle
to the right carries next to no load. Those which carry a considerable current load,
are about 5C (9F) hotter than those which do not. No fault to be reported in these
examples.
14.5.5 Varying cooling conditions
10714103;a3
Figure 14.15 An infrared image of bundled cables
When, for example, a number of cables are bundled together it can happen that the
resulting poor cooling of the cables in the middle can lead to them reaching very high
temperatures. See the image above.
The cables to the right in the image do not show any overheating close to the bolts.
In the vertical part of the bundle, however, the cables are held together very tightly,
14 the cooling of the cables is poor, the convection can not take the heat away, and the
cables are notably hotter, actually about 5C (9F) above the temperature of the better
cooled part of the cables.
14.5.6 Resistance variations

Overheating can have many origins. Some common reasons are described below.
Low contact pressure can occur when mounting a joint, or through wear of the mate-
rial, for example, decreasing spring tension, worn threads in nuts and bolts, even too
much force applied at mounting. With increasing loads and temperatures, the yield
point of the material is exceeded and the tension weakens.
The image to the left below shows a bad contact due to a loose bolt. Since the bad
contact is of very limited dimensions, it causes overheating only in a very small spot
from which the heat is spread evenly along the connecting cable. Note the lower
emissivity of the screw itself, which makes it look slightly colder than the insulatedand
thereby it has a high emissivitycable insulation.
The image to the right shows another overheating situation, this time again due to a
loose connection. It is an outdoor connection, hence it is exposed to the cooling effect
of the wind and it is likely that the overheating would have shown a higher temperature,
if mounted indoors.
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Figure 14.16 LEFT: An infrared image showing bad contact due to a loose bolt; RIGHT: A loose outdoor
connection, exposed to the wind cooling effect.
14.5.7 Overheating in one part as a result of a fault in another

Sometimes, overheating can appear in a component although that component is OK.
The reason is that two conductors share the load. One of the conductors has an in-
creased resistance, but the other is OK. Thus, the faulty component carries a lower
load, whereas the fresh one has to take a higher load, which may be too high and
which causes the increased temperature. See the image.
14
10714303;a3
Figure 14.17 Overheating in a circuit breaker
The overheating of this circuit breaker is most probably caused by bad contact in the
near finger of the contactor. Thus, the far finger carries more current and gets hotter.
The component in the infrared image and in the photo is not the same, however, it is
similar).
14
14.6 Disturbance factors at thermographic inspection of

electrical installations
During thermographic inspections of different types of electrical installations, distur-
bance factors such as wind, distance to object, rain or snow often influence the
measurement result.
14.6.1 Wind
During outdoor inspection, the cooling effect of the wind should be taken into account.
An overheating measured at a wind velocity of 5 m/s (10 knots) will be approximately
twice as high at 1 m/s (2 knots). An excess temperature measured at 8 m/s (16 knots)
will be 2.5 times as high at 1 m/s (2 knots). This correction factor, which is based on
empirical measurements, is usually applicable up to 8 m/s (16 knots).
There are, however, cases when you have to inspect even if the wind is stronger than
8 m/s (16 knots). There are many windy places in the world, islands, mountains, and
so on but it is important to know that overheated components found would have
shown a considerably higher temperature at a lower wind speed. The empirical cor-
rection factor can be listed.
Wind speed (m/s) Wind speed (knots) Correction factor
1 2 1
2 4 1.36
3 6 1.64
4 8 1.86
5 10 2.06
6 12 2.23
7 14 2.40
8 16 2.54
The measured overheating multiplied by the correction factor gives the excess tem-
perature with no wind, that is, at 1 m/s (2 knots).
14.6.2 Rain and snow
Rain and snow also have a cooling effect on electrical equipment. Thermographic
measurement can still be conducted with satisfactory results during light snowfall
with dry snow and light drizzle, respectively. The image quality will deteriorate in heavy 14
snow or rain and reliable measurement is no longer possible. This is mainly because
a heavy snowfall as well as heavy rain is impenetrable to infrared radiation and it is
rather the temperature of the snowflakes or raindrops that will be measured.
14.6.3 Distance to object
This image is taken from a helicopter 20 meters (66 ft.) away from this faulty connec-
tion. The distance was incorrectly set to 1 meter (3 ft.) and the temperature was
measured to +37.9C (+100.2F). The measurement value after changing the distance
to 20 meters (66 ft.), which was done afterwards, is shown in the image to the right,
where the corrected temperature is +38.8C (+101.8F). The difference is not too
crucial, but may take the fault into a higher class of seriousness. So the distance
setting must definitely not be neglected.
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Figure 14.18 LEFT: Incorrect distance setting; RIGHT: Correct distance setting
The images below show the temperature readings from a blackbody at +85C
(+185F) at increasing distances.
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14 Figure 14.19 Temperature readings from a blackbody at +85C (+185F) at increasing distances
The measured average temperatures are, from left to right, +85.3C

(+185.5F),+85.3C (+185.5F), +84.8C (+184.6F), +84.8C (+184.6F), +84.8C
(+184.6F) and +84.3C (+183.7F) from a blackbody at +85C (+185F). The ther-
mograms are taken with a 12 lens. The distances are 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 10 meters (3,
7, 10, 13, 16 and 33 ft.). The correction for the distance has been meticulously set
and works, because the object is big enough for correct measurement.
14.6.4 Object size
The second series of images below shows the same but with the normal 24 lens.
Here, the measured average temperatures of the blackbody at +85C (+185F) are:
+84.2C (+183.6F), +83.7C (+182.7F), +83.3C (+181.9F), +83.3C (+181.9F),
+83.4C (+181.1F) and +78.4C (+173.1F).
The last value, (+78.4C (+173.1F)), is the maximum temperature as it was not
possible to place a circle inside the now very small blackbody image. Obviously, it
is not possible to measure correct values if the object is too small. Distance was
properly set to 10 meters (33 ft.).
10714603;a3
Figure 14.20 Temperature readings from a blackbody at +85C (+185F) at increasing distances (24
lens)
The reason for this effect is that there is a smallest object size, which gives correct
temperature measurement. This smallest size is indicated to the user in all FLIR Sys-
tems cameras. The image below shows what you see in the viewfinder of camera
model 695. The spot meter has an opening in its middle, more easily seen in the detail
to the right. The size of the object has to be bigger than that opening or some radiation
from its closest neighbors, which are much colder, will come into the measurement 14
as well, strongly lowering the reading. In the above case, where we have a point-
shaped object, which is much hotter than the surroundings, the temperature reading
will be too low.
10714703;a3
Figure 14.21 Image from the viewfinder of a ThermaCAM 695
This effect is due to imperfections in the optics and to the size of the detector elements.
It is typical for all infrared cameras and can not be avoided.
14
14.7 Practical advice for the thermographer

Working in a practical way with a camera, you will discover small things that make
your job easier. Here are ten of them to start with.
14.7.1 From cold to hot
You have been out with the camera at +5C (+41F). To continue your work, you
now have to perform the inspection indoors. If you wear glasses, you are used to
having to wipe off condensed water, or you will not be able to see anything. The same
thing happens with the camera. To measure correctly, you should wait until the
camera has become warm enough for the condensation to evaporate. This will also
allow for the internal temperature compensation system to adjust to the changed
condition.
14.7.2 Rain showers
If it starts raining you should not perform the inspection because the water will drasti-
cally change the surface temperature of the object that you are measuring. Neverthe-
less, sometimes you need to use the camera even under rain showers or splashes.
Protect your camera with a simple transparent polyethylene plastic bag. Correction
for the attenuation which is caused by the plastic bag can be made by adjusting the
object distance until the temperature reading is the same as without the plastic cover.
Some camera models have a separate External optics transmission entry.
14.7.3 Emissivity
You have to determine the emissivity for the material, which you are measuring.
Mostly, you will not find the value in tables. Use optical black paint, that is, Nextel
Black Velvet. Paint a small piece of the material you are working with. The emissivity
of the optical paint is normally 0.94. Remember that the object has to have a temper-
ature, which is differentusually higherthan the ambient temperature. The larger
the difference the better the accuracy in the emissivity calculation. The difference
should be at least 20C (36F). Remember that there are other paints that support
very high temperatures up to +800C (+1472F). The emissivity may, however, be
lower than that of optical black.
Sometimes you can not paint the object that you are measuring. In this case you can
use a tape. A thin tape for which you have previously determined the emissivity will
work in most cases and you can remove it afterwards without damaging the object
of your study. Pay attention to the fact that some tapes are semi-transparent and thus
are not very good for this purpose. One of the best tapes for this purpose is Scotch
electrical tape for outdoor and sub-zero conditions. 14
14.7.4 Reflected apparent temperature

You are in a measurement situation where there are several hot sources that influence
your measurement. You need to have the right value for the reflected apparent tem-
perature to input into the camera and thus get the best possible correction. Do it in
this way: set the emissivity to 1.0. Adjust the camera lens to near focus and, looking
in the opposite direction away from the object, save one image. With the area or the
isotherm, determine the most probable value of the average of the image and use
that value for your input of reflected apparent temperature.
14.7.5 Object too far away
Are you in doubt that the camera you have is measuring correctly at the actual dis-
tance? A rule of thumb for your lens is to multiply the IFOV by 3. (IFOV is the detail
of the object seen by one single element of the detector). Example: 25 degrees cor-
respond to about 437 mrad. If your camera has a 120 120 pixel image, IFOV be-
comes 437/120 = 3.6 mrad (3.6 mm/m) and your spot size ratio is about
1000/(3 3.6)=92:1. This means that at a distance of 9.2 meters (30.2 ft.), your target
has to be at least about 0.1 meter or 100 mm wide (3.9"). Try to work on the safe side
by coming closer than 9 meters (30 ft.). At 78 meters (2326 ft.), your measurement
should be correct.
14
15 About FLIR Systems
FLIR Systems was established in 1978 to pioneer the development of high-performance
infrared imaging systems, and is the world leader in the design, manufacture, and
marketing of thermal imaging systems for a wide variety of commercial, industrial,
and government applications. Today, FLIR Systems embraces four major companies
with outstanding achievements in infrared technology since 1965the Swedish
AGEMA Infrared Systems (formerly AGA Infrared Systems), and the three United
States companies Indigo Systems, FSI, and Inframetrics.
10722703;a1
Figure 15.1 LEFT: Thermovision Model 661 from 1969. The camera weighed approximately 25 kg
(55 lb.), the oscilloscope 20 kg (44 lb.), and the tripod 15 kg (33 lb.). The operator also needed a 220 VAC
generator set, and a 10 L (2.6 US gallon) jar with liquid nitrogen. To the left of the oscilloscope the Polaroid
attachment (6 kg/13 lb.) can be seen. RIGHT: InfraCAM from 2006. Weight: 0.55 kg (1.21 lb.), including
the battery
The company has sold more than 40,000 infrared cameras worldwide for applications
such as predictive maintenance, R & D, non-destructive testing, process control and
automation, and machine vision, among many others.
FLIR Systems has three manufacturing plants in the United States (Portland, OR,
Boston, MA, Santa Barbara, CA) and one in Sweden (Stockholm). Direct sales offices
in Belgium, Brazil, China, France, Germany, Great Britain, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan,
Sweden, and the USAtogether with a worldwide network of agents and distribu-
torssupport our international customer base.
15
FLIR Systems is at the forefront of innovation in the infrared camera industry. We an-
ticipate market demand by constantly improving our existing cameras and developing
new ones. The company has set milestones in product design and development such
as the introduction of the first battery-operated portable camera for industrial inspec-
tions, and the first uncooled infrared camera, to mention just two innovations.
FLIR Systems manufactures all vital mechanical and electronic components of the
camera systems itself. From detector design and manufacturing, to lenses and system
electronics, to final testing and calibration, all production steps are carried out and
supervised by our own engineers. The in-depth expertise of these infrared specialists
ensures the accuracy and reliability of all vital components that are assembled into
your infrared camera.
15.1 More than just an infrared camera

At FLIR Systems we recognize that our job is to go beyond just producing the best
infrared camera systems. We are committed to enabling all users of our infrared
camera systems to work more productively by providing them with the most powerful
camerasoftware combination. Especially tailored software for predictive maintenance,
R & D, and process monitoring is developed in-house. Most software is available in
a wide variety of languages.
We support all our infrared cameras with a wide variety of accessories to adapt your
equipment to the most demanding infrared applications.
15.2 Sharing our knowledge

Although our cameras are designed to be very user-friendly, there is a lot more to
thermography than just knowing how to handle a camera. Therefore, FLIR Systems
has founded the Infrared Training Center (ITC), a separate business unit, that provides
certified training courses. Attending one of the ITC courses will give you a truly hands-
on learning experience.
The staff of the ITC are also there to provide you with any application support you
may need in putting infrared theory into practice.
15.3 Supporting our customers

FLIR Systems operates a worldwide service network to keep your camera running at
all times. If you discover a problem with your camera, local service centers have all
the equipment and expertise to solve it within the shortest possible time. Therefore,
there is no need to send your camera to the other side of the world or to talk to
someone who does not speak your language.
15
15.4 A few images from our facilities

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Figure 15.2 LEFT: Development of system electronics; RIGHT: Testing of an FPA detector
10401403;a1
Figure 15.3 LEFT: Diamond turning machine; RIGHT: Lens polishing
15
10401503;a1
Figure 15.4 LEFT: Testing of infrared cameras in the climatic chamber; RIGHT: Robot used for camera
testing and calibration
15
16
16 History of infrared technology
Less than 200 years ago the existence of the infrared portion of the electromagnetic
spectrum wasnt even suspected. The original significance of the infrared spectrum,
or simply the infrared as it is often called, as a form of heat radiation is perhaps less
obvious today than it was at the time of its discovery by Herschel in 1800.
10398703;a1
Figure 16.1 Sir William Herschel (17381822)
The discovery was made accidentally during the search for a new optical material.
Sir William HerschelRoyal Astronomer to King George III of England, and already
famous for his discovery of the planet Uranuswas searching for an optical filter
material to reduce the brightness of the suns image in telescopes during solar obser-
vations. While testing different samples of colored glass that gave similar reductions
in brightness, he was intrigued to find that some of the samples passed very little of
the suns heat, while others passed so much heat that he risked eye damage after
only a few seconds observation.
Herschel was soon convinced of the necessity of setting up a systematic experiment,
with the objective of finding a single material that would give the desired reduction in
brightness as well as the maximum reduction in heat. He began the experiment by
repeating Newtons prism experiment, but looking for the heating effect rather than
the visual distribution of intensity in the spectrum. He first blackened the bulb of a
sensitive mercury-in-glass thermometer with ink, and with this as his radiation detector
he proceeded to test the heating effect of the various colors of the spectrum formed
on the top of a table by passing sunlight through a glass prism. Other thermometers,
placed outside the suns rays, served as controls.
As the blackened thermometer was moved slowly along the colors of the spectrum,
the temperature readings showed a steady increase from the violet end to the red
end. This was not entirely unexpected, since the Italian researcher Landriani, in a
similar experiment in 1777, had observed much the same effect. It was Herschel,
16 however, who was the first to recognize that there must be a point where the heating
effect reaches a maximum, and that measurements confined to the visible portion of
the spectrum failed to locate this point.
10398903;a1
Figure 16.2 Marsilio Landriani (17461815)
Moving the thermometer into the dark region beyond the red end of the spectrum,
Herschel confirmed that the heating effect continued to increase. The maximum point,
when he found it, lay well beyond the red endin what is known today as the infrared
wavelengths.
When Herschel revealed his discovery, he referred to this new portion of the electro-
magnetic spectrum as the thermometrical spectrum. The radiation itself he sometimes
referred to as dark heat, or simply the invisible rays. Ironically, and contrary to
popular opinion, it wasnt Herschel who originated the term infrared. The word only
began to appear in print around 75 years later, and it is still unclear who should receive
credit as the originator.
Herschels use of glass in the prism of his original experiment led to some early
controversies with his contemporaries about the actual existence of the infrared
wavelengths. Different investigators, in attempting to confirm his work, used various
types of glass indiscriminately, having different transparencies in the infrared. Through
his later experiments, Herschel was aware of the limited transparency of glass to the
newly discovered thermal radiation, and he was forced to conclude that optics for
the infrared would probably be restricted to the use of reflective elements exclusively
(i.e., plane and curved mirrors). Fortunately, this proved to be true only until 1830,
when the Italian investigator Melloni made his great discovery that naturally occurring
rock salt (NaCl)which was available in large enough crystals to be made into lenses
and prismsis remarkably transparent to the infrared. The result was that rock salt
became the principal infrared optical material, and remained so for the next century,
until the art of synthetic crystal growing was mastered in the 1930s.
10399103;a1
16
Figure 16.3 Macedonio Melloni (17981854)
Thermometers, as radiation detectors, remained unchallenged until 1829, the year

Nobili invented the thermocouple. (Herschels own thermometer could be read to
0.2C (0.036F), and later models were able to be read to 0.05C (0.09F).) Then a
breakthrough occurred: Melloni connected a number of thermocouples in series to
form the first thermopile. The new device was at least 40 times as sensitive as the
best thermometer of the day for detecting heat radiationcapable of detecting the
heat from a person standing 3 meters (10 ft.) away.
The first so-called heat-picture became possible in 1840, the result of work by Sir
John Herschel, son of the discoverer of the infrared and a famous astronomer in his
own right. Based upon the differential evaporation of a thin film of oil when exposed
to a heat pattern focused upon it, the thermal image could be seen by reflected light
where the interference effects of the oil film made the image visible to the eye. John
Herschel also managed to obtain a primitive record of the thermal image on paper,
which he called a thermograph.
10399003;a2
Figure 16.4 Samuel P. Langley (18341906)
16 The improvement of infrared-detector sensitivity progressed slowly. Another major

breakthrough, made by Langley in 1880, was the invention of the bolometer. This
consisted of a thin blackened strip of platinum connected in one arm of a Wheatstone
bridge circuit upon which the infrared radiation was focused and to which a sensitive
galvanometer responded. This instrument is said to have been able to detect the heat
from a cow at a distance of 400 meters (1311 ft.).
An English scientist, Sir James Dewar, first introduced the use of liquefied gases as
cooling agents (such as liquid nitrogen with a temperature of 196C (320.8F)) in
low-temperature research. In 1892 he invented a unique vacuum insulating container
in which it was possible to store liquefied gases for entire days. The common thermos
flask, used for storing hot and cold drinks, is based upon his invention.
Between the years 1900 and 1920, the inventors of the world discovered the infrared.
Many patents were issued for devices to detect personnel, artillery, aircraft, shipsand
even icebergs. The first operating systems, in the modern sense, began to be devel-
oped during the 191418 war, when both sides had research programs devoted to
the military exploitation of the infrared. These programs included experimental systems
for enemy intrusion/detection, remote temperature sensing, secure communications,
and flying torpedo guidance. An infrared search system tested during this period
was able to detect an approaching airplane at a distance of 1.5 km (0.94 miles), or
a person more than 300 meters (984 ft.) away.
The most sensitive systems up to this time were all based upon variations of the
bolometer idea, but the period between the two world wars saw the development of
two revolutionary new infrared detectors: the image converter and the photon detector.
At first, the image converter received the greatest attention by the military, because
it enabled an observer for the first time in history to literally see in the dark. However,
the sensitivity of the image converter was limited to the near-infrared wavelengths,
and the most interesting military targets (i.e. enemy soldiers) had to be illuminated
by infrared search beams. Since this involved the risk of giving away the observers
position to a similarly equipped enemy observer, it is understandable that military in-
terest in the image converter eventually faded.
The tactical military disadvantages of so-called active (i.e. search beam-equipped)
thermal-imaging systems provided impetus following the 193945 war for extensive
secret military infrared-research programs into the possibilities of developing passive
(no search beam) systems based around the extremely sensitive photon detector.
During this period, military secrecy prevented disclosure of the status of infrared-
imaging technology. This secrecy only began to be lifted in the middle of the 1950s,
and viable thermal-imaging devices finally began to be available to civilian science
and industry.
16
A note on the technical production of this manual
This manual was produced using XMLthe eXtensible Markup Language. For more information about XML, please visit http://www.w3.org/XML/
A note on the typeface used in this manual
This manual was typeset using Swiss 721, which is Bitstreams pan-European version of the Helvetica typeface. Helvetica was designed
by Max Miedinger (19101980).
The following file identities and file versions were used in the formatting stream output for this manual:
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Users manual

Publ. No. 1558299

Important note about this manual 4

Contents of the transport case 5

Connecting the cables 8

Operating the camera 9

Cleaning the camera 10

Introduction to building thermography 13

Introduction to thermographic inspections of

About FLIR Systems 15

Designation Status Reg. No.

China Application 00809178.1

China Application 01823221.3

China Application 01823226.4

China Design Patent 235308

China Design Patent ZL02331553.9

China Design Patent ZL02331554.7

China Pending 200530018812.0

EPC Patent 1188086

EPO Application 01930377.5

EPO Application 01934715.2

EPO Application 27282912

EU Design Patent 000279476-0001

France Patent 1188086

Germany Patent 60004227.8

Great Britain Design Patent 106017

Great Britain Design Patent 3006596

Great Britain Design Patent 3006597

Great Britain Patent 1188086

International Design Patent DM/057692

International Design Patent DM/061609

Japan Application 2000-620406

Japan Application 2002-588123

Japan Application 2002-588070

Japan Design Patent 1144833

Japan Design Patent 1182246

Japan Design Patent 1182620

Japan Pending 2005-020460

PCT Application PCT/SE01/00983

PCT Application PCT/SE01/00984

PCT Application PCT/SE02/00857

PCT Application PCT/SE03/00307

PCT Application PCT/SE/00/00739

Sweden Application 0302837-0

Sweden Design Patent 68657

Sweden Design Patent 75530

Sweden Patent 518836

Sweden Patent 522971

Sweden Patent 524024

U.S. Application 09/576266

U.S. Application 10/476,760

U.S. Design Patent 466540

U.S. Design Patent 483782

U.S. Design Patent 484155

U.S. Patent 5,386,117

U.S. Patent 5,637,871

U.S. Patent 5,756,999