Thermal imaging

Thermal imaging services

Building eValuate are certified level 1 thermographers. We use a Flir infrared camera as a supplementary tool for our building diagnostics services. Infrared thermography is the quickest and most definitive method to detect moisture, energy losses and electrical issues in buildings. Thermal camera investigations are a non-destructive inspection process which can provide us with valuable information on a variety of building issues. We service private homes, commercial buildings and schools.

A thermal camera can detect

• moisture in wall structures
• rising and lateral damp problems
• building envelope leaks
• mould in inaccessible cavities
• water migration
• water damage on internal decks
• thermal signatures of latent moisture
• poorly installed or inadequate insulation
• air leaks in the building envelope
• pipe location prior to drilling
• electrical overloads
• substandard sealing work

How it works

All objects emit heat. This heat (thermal energy) is not visible to the human eye because of its short wavelength and therefore needs to be measured under the infrared spectrum. The process of thermal imaging measures this heat with infrared cameras and presents the picture of the heat being emitted.

Damp problems – thermal imaging

Rising and lateral damp is a major problem in buildings in the Hobart area. Many buildings are built on steep sites with habitable rooms constructed below ground level. These buildings are often constructed with sub-standard or no waterproofing/drainage systems in place. Many buildings present with damp problems that are costly to repair and can lead to structural damage and health issues if left unchecked. We use a combination of techniques and inspection tools to definitively determine the cause and source of moisture ingress.

Location of leaks and blockages – thermal imaging

Thermal imaging is an effective tool to locate and check pipes and ducting for leaks and blockages. This is a non-invasive process that is utilised when the water pipes are concealed in the floor or wall cavities. The heat/cold of the pipes radiates through the surface and the pattern can easily be located with an infrared camera.

Electrical checks and monitoring – thermal imaging

Points of high resistance in electrical circuits usually show no visible signs of malfunction until the component fails. When an electrical system is under load high resistance in circuits create heat imbalances that are detectable with a thermal camera. The process of component heating can take place over a long period and early detection and identification is the most critical step in avoiding costly shutdowns /repairs or potential fire risk.

Thermal electrical faults are often caused by

• Poor/loose connections
• Loose crimps
• Poor contacts

Predictive maintenance inspections are often mandatory in commercial maintenance programmes. These thermographic surveys are conducted when the systems are operating and under load. When faults have been detected, issues can be identified and rectification can be implemented when a programmed shut down has been scheduled. This will save time and money.

Inspection tools

• FLIR B60 Infrared camera
• Moisture meter (communicates with camera)
• Video borescope

Thermal images of electrical and building defects