Improving machine assemblies’ diagnosis with the use of thermal imaging camera

Abstract

Thermal imaging camera is used in the construction industry, energy industry and some other areas. Considering that a vehicle uses engines, interacting parts, electrical wiring and electrical equipment, it is advisable to use thermal imaging diagnostic method for vehicles as well, including specialized (trucks, road construction and others). Thermal imaging method of machinery diagnosing can be used in the conditions of the specialized automobile service enterprise (dealer or universal), visiting service (servicing of specialized machines by dealer), as well as using own service base of the enterprise. This task is especially urgent in connection with the necessity of pre-shift inspection, which is usually carried out by the company's own maintenance service. Rapid vehicle diagnosis using instrumented testing is therefore an important task. Brakes, bearings, engine, gearbox, transfer case, axles and electrical wiring can all be checked with a thermal imaging camera. Possibility of application of a thermal imaging camera for determining the condition of an angle or an aggregate both by comparison (brake mechanisms, hub bearings) and by determining the actual temperatures of the diagnosed object and comparing them with the approximate values which are determined beforehand on the basis of the previously made measurements. Thus, the use of thermal imaging method of vehicle diagnostics will allow for faster and more accurate assessment of the actual condition of vehicle units and assemblies, increasing its efficiency.