Petrochemical refineries are complex facilities with several opportunities for the application of thermal imaging. Typical applications include electrical and mechanical systems, structures, and refractory-lined vessels.
For refineries that feature process heaters, infrared inspections may be performed to detect a number of defects including coke deposits within operating heater tubes, physically damaged furnace components, and air infiltration. Infrared inspections may also be used as a monitoring tool during steam air decoking.
In order to perform heater tube inspections accurately, imaging radiometers outfitted with flame and high-temperature filters and telephoto optics are required along with an experienced thermographer who understands the special and extreme conditions associated with operating process units.
Performed regularly, an infrared survey for petrochemical facilities can help identify latent or incipient equipment failures. Such information can help to prevent unscheduled downtime and improve the output of process equipment without compromising safety.
Our Infrared Surveys are performed by Infraspection Institute Certified Infrared Thermographers® using high-resolution infrared imaging radiometers. This equipment detects infrared energy emitted from an object and converts it into an image which is displayed on a monitor screen.
When an area or component with an unusual temperature differential is located, our thermal imager is used to measure the temperature of the problem area. The thermal image may then be recorded on video or computer media in black and white and/or color.
Once the temperature and location of the problem area have been noted, a hardcopy record of the thermal image is produced. These Thermograms, along with a standard photograph and our problem definition, provide you with the necessary information to correct a problem before it becomes serious.
