by Gary Strahan | Owner, Infrared Cameras Inc.

There has been no better time in history to start an infrared thermography program than now. Low cost high quality systems are available from numerous manufacturers. Hand held imaging radiometers such as these are replacing commonly used point radiometers by plant personnel. New infrared view ports are emerging daily from various manufacturers that allow compliance with NFPA 70E and make these inspections safer for thermographers. Reliability through lean and six sigma programs have become the competitive edge. To compete on a global scale companies and managers realize down time translates directly to the bottom line. Truly, companies cannot afford not to have a thermal imaging camera and trained personnel to operate them. Whether in house or outside contractors it is a must to compete in today’s environment. Infrared systems have proved to not only save money and time but most importantly save lives. Thermal Imaging has now become the fasted growing form of Non- Destructive testing in the world. This is not a new trendy technology that will phase out in years to come. This technology was introduced in the early seventies and is still growing rapidly and covering markets that were not previously using infrared. This form of preventive maintenance offers a safe reliable way to maintain a safe, confident, and comfortable work environment. In addition to the maintenance savings using thermal imaging it is also known to provide insurance companies accuracy thus providing customers lower rates. I would urge every company to do their research in the Infrared Thermography Field. I believe the results of steady research would provide companies’ with more than adequate information for a return on investment. Now more than ever before this technology is proven to work, affordable, and only a phone call away.