Thermal Imaging: Why its so important

Thermal Imaging - Why is it so Important?

How Does Infrared Thermography Work?

Infrared thermography is the technique of converting infrared energy (radiant heat) into an image that a person can see and understand. We ordinarily see in visible light. We can compare infrared to visible light - they are not the same, but work for this example

Light cameras vs Infrared camera

You are familiar with the idea of a video camera creating images on video monitors or television. The electronics in the camera convert the light energy that enters the lens into a video signal, and displays that signal on a monitor or TV. You see shapes, colors, textures, shadows, and reflective surfaces in the image as a result of the camera's ability to capture light.

In a similar way, an infrared camera creates an image by converting radiant heat energy into a signal that can be displayed on a monitor.

The infrared energy emitted from an object is directly proportional to its temperature. Therefore temperatures are accurately measured by the infrared camera.

How do we use this for home inspections?

This image shows a hot coffee mug and a plate of cookies. This image has been enhance by adding colour. As you can see, the colors bear no correlation with visible light, rather the colors correspond to the radiant heat. Notice the temperature scale to the left of the image.