Recent Industrial Applications of Infrared Thermography: A Review

Infrared thermography (IRT) is a noninvasive technique that is drawing an increasing attention in industry. The spectacular advancement in the features of the infrared cameras that has come together with their progressive cost reduction has expanded the use of this technique to many industrial applications that were unfeasible just a few years ago. This paper compiles and comments the most recent scientific contributions related to the application of this technique in the industrial context. The paper classifies the analyzed references into three main groups: electrical, mechanical, and other applications. Especial emphasis is made on induction-motor-related applications of the IRT due to the extensive participation of these machines in the industrial context. The paper provides a critical review of most of the analyzed references, emphasizes the way in which the infrared technique is applied to the specific application and presents the limitations and pending issues as well as future challenges regarding the application of the technique.