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Infrared Thermography Market Shaping the Future

Published: April 5, 2024

Author: TEXTILE VALUE CHAIN

What is Infrared Thermography?

Infrared thermography, also known as thermal imaging, is a technology used to capture and visualize the infrared radiation emitted by objects and surfaces. This technology allows for the detection of temperature variations across an object or scene, which can provide valuable insights into its thermal characteristics. Infrared thermography is widely used in various industries for applications such as building inspections, predictive maintenance, medical diagnostics, electrical troubleshooting, and surveillance, among others. It is valuable for identifying anomalies, detecting faults, and monitoring temperature changes that may indicate potential issues or areas of concern.

A recently released Infrared Thermography Market analysis report reveals that global sales in the market in 2022 were held at US$ 57.6 million. With a 7.2 % projected CAGR from 2022 to 2032, the market is expected to hit a valuation of US$ 115 billion by the end of the forecast period (2022 to 2032).

Infrared Thermography Testing Techniques

Infrared thermography testing techniques involve the use of infrared cameras or thermal imaging devices to capture and analyze thermal patterns emitted by objects or surfaces. These techniques leverage the principle that all objects emit infrared radiation based on their temperature, allowing for the detection of temperature variations invisible to the naked eye.

There are several common infrared thermography testing techniques:

Passive Infrared Thermography: In this technique, the infrared camera passively detects the natural infrared radiation emitted by objects or surfaces without any external stimulation. It is commonly used for detecting heat loss, moisture intrusion, and insulation deficiencies in buildings.
Active Infrared Thermography: In active thermography, an external energy source, such as heat or light, is applied to the surface being inspected. The camera then captures the thermal response of the material as it cools down or heats up, revealing hidden defects such as delaminations, voids, or subsurface damage in materials.
Transient Thermography: Transient thermography involves applying a short-duration heat pulse to the surface under inspection, typically using a flash lamp or heating element. The camera then captures the thermal response of the material over time, allowing for the detection of subsurface defects based on differences in thermal conductivity or heat capacity.
Lock-In Thermography: Lock-in thermography combines active thermography with modulated heat sources and synchronized infrared cameras. It is particularly useful for detecting defects in highly reflective or emissive materials by isolating the thermal response at specific frequencies, enhancing defect contrast and sensitivity.
Line Scan Thermography: In line scan thermography, a moving line heat source is used to heat the surface of the material, while an infrared camera captures images continuously along the inspection line. This technique is commonly used for inspecting large structures, such as aircraft wings or wind turbine blades, to detect subsurface defects or delaminations.

Overall, infrared thermography testing techniques offer non-destructive and non-contact methods for detecting a wide range of defects and anomalies in materials and structures, making them valuable tools for quality control, preventive maintenance, and condition monitoring across various industries.

Competitive Analysis:

The market players are investing heavily in research and development for new and efficient products. The companies are also focusing on product launches to augment their market positions.

Key players in the market include FLIR Systems, Jenoptik AG, Fluke Corporation, SKF AB, Keysight Technologies, Inc., Testo AG, Reytek Corporation, Optris GmbH, R. Stahl Cameras Systems, Opgal Optronic Industries, Ltd., Finmeccanica S.p.A., BAE Systems, L-3 Communications, Infratec GmbH and Raytheon Company.