Saving the Planet Using Thermography

Lightbulbs are heaters that emit visible light! They use electrical energy measured in watts.

Conversly, loose connections are heaters that produce/emit light in the infrared spectrum. They too use (waste) electrical energy.

If a loose connection produces light the temperature is well over 700 degrees (F) They are VERY dangerous!

While none of these images are in that temperature range, they are still dramatic and all waste thier share of wattage from your electrical system.

Each hotspot found in your facility is a lightbulb waiting to be unscrewed.


Each hotspot has its own characteristics, so the wattage associated with it is hard to enumerate.
An average of 70-150 watts can be a guide.

If you want to Save the Planet, start by unscrewing (removing) unwanted lightbulbs (hotspots) throughout your plant.

IR Energy

Our eyes only see the tiny fraction of energy emitted by the sun in the form of visible light. However, if we could see the infrared rays emitted by all bodies--organic and inorganic--we could effectively see in the dark. Though invisible to the human eye, infrared radiation can be detected as a feeling of warmth on the skin, and even objects that are colder than ambient temperature radiate infrared energy. Some animals such as rattlesnakes, have small infrared temperature sensors located under each eye which can sense the amount of heat being given off by a body. These sensors help them to locate prey and protect themselves from predators.

Non-contact temperature sensors use the concept of infrared radiant energy to measure the temperature of objects from a distance. After determining the wavelength of the energy being emitted by an object, the sensor can use integrated equations that take into account the body's material and surface qualities to determine its temperature. In this chapter, we will focus on the history of radiation thermometry and the development of non-contact temperature sensors.

Infrared Motors & Bearings

Motor Infrared used to detect bearing, alignment and motor trouble.

Electrical motor shows thermal signature that is common to larger motors.

Pillow bearing ( two bearings used to hold a shaft in place) shows uneven wear on right side. If left unattended this bearing will fail and the shaft, bearing and pillow will need to be replaced.

Common motor and gearbox combo. The gearbox should never be hotter than the motor.