Optimizing Your Projects with Thermography
Authored by: Mike Marun
When surveying a site, there are common tools that are used in the field of architecture. These tools range from a tape measure to a camera, but why not a thermographer? Thermography is the process of acquisition and analysis of thermal information from non-contact thermal imaging devices. NKB has undergone training in the field of thermography, learning how this complex process can be utilized in the field.
Some of the elements that thermography can be used to capture when site surveying include:
Energy Efficiency: Thermography helps identify areas of poor insulation, air leaks, and thermal bridges. This allows for targeted improvements, leading to better energy efficiency and reduced heating and cooling costs.
Moisture Detection: It can detect moisture intrusion and plumbing leaks that are not visible to the naked eye. Early detection prevents structural damage and mold growth, saving on costly repairs.
Non-Destructive Testing: Thermography is a non-invasive method, meaning it can assess the condition of a building without causing any damage. This is particularly useful for historical buildings or structures with delicate materials.
Safety: By identifying potential hazards, such as overheating electrical components or hidden structural issues, thermography enhances the safety of buildings for occupants.
Quality Assurance: During construction, thermography can be used to ensure that insulation and other materials are installed correctly. This helps maintain high standards of quality and performance.
How Does Thermography Work?
Thermography works through a variety of capturing methods, from handheld to tripod-mounted imagery. Infrared thermography is the process of acquisition and analysis of thermal information from non-contact thermal imaging devices. The image that is then produced by this process can be referred to as a thermogram or thermal image. The cameras used in thermography capture infrared energy and overlay the information onto captured images to visualize these non-visible elements.
Figure 1: Example of What Is Seen to the Naked Eye
Figure 2: Example of an Infrared Image
The Importance of Thermography:
Thermography becomes an important process that can be used in site surveying because of its ability to capture and visualize infrared energy that is invisible to the naked eye. Infrared imaging systems can now be tailored for specific requirements, and they can be advantageously exploited for process control and maintenance planning without production stops and with consequent money saving. Examples of these faults that can be detected without disrupting existing conditions are:
1. Discover defects in building envelopes
2. Monitor reinforcing steel in concrete
3. Detect moisture inside building walls and roofing members
4. Detect defects in live wiring and other surfaces that can’t safely be accessed or touched
Figure 3: Example of an Infrared Camera in Use
Prioritizing Thermography:
Thermography should be prioritized more often in the field of architecture. When it comes to conducting investigations, there is always a need to incorporate other experts from each required field to ensure that a project is being carried out properly. This process involves employing other experts and consultants who may conduct studies, but how do we ensure that we involve others in a controlled manner? Thermography does not answer all problems, but it can allow an architect to identify specific problem areas to conduct further investigation. This saves all parties time and money, making thermal imaging devices a necessary tool to carry in the field. By prioritizing this unique tool, investigative methods will become more concise and can be conducted in a controlled fashion.