Infrared thermography for predictive maintenance

Thermal imaging has evolved into one of the most valuable diagnostic tools used for predictive maintenance (PdM). Thermal imaging, also called thermography, is the production of non-contact infrared or 'heat' pictures from which temperature measurements can be made. By detecting anomalies often invisible to the naked eye, thermography allows corrective action before costly system failures occur. Portable infrared (IR) imaging systems scan equipment and structures, then instantly convert the thermal images to visible pictures displayed quantitative temperature analysis. (author)