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Infrared Thermography , thermal imaging, or thermal video, is a type of infrared imaging science. Thermographic cameras detects radiation in heat emission or loss in the infrared range of the electromagnetic spectrum and produce images of that radiation. Since all objects based on their temperatures emit infrared radiation, thermography makes it possible to "see" one's environment with or without visible illumination. The amount of radiation emitted by an object increases with temperature, therefore thermography allows one to see variations in temperature (hence the name). When viewed by thermographic camera, warm objects stand out well against cooler backgrounds; humans and other warm-blooded animals become easily visible against the environment, day or night. As a result, thermography's extensive use can historically be ascribed to the military and security services.
Thermal imaging has many uses. With thermal imaging, power lines maintenance technicians locate overheating joints and parts, a telltale sign of their failure, to eliminate potential hazards. Where thermal insulation becomes faulty, building construction technicians can see thermal signatures that indicate heat leaks and to improve the efficiencies of cooling or heating air conditioning.
The appearance and operation of a modern thermographic camera is often similar to a camcorder. Enabling the user to see in the infrared spectrum is a function so useful that ability to record the output is often optional.
Under the SEI initivative of BER rating every Irish home from January 1st 2009, assessors to detect heat loss in the home will use this technology. It serves as an opportunity to identify heat loss and rectify the problem .These cameras are too expensive and uneconomic for the householder to buy to do their own assessment.
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