Infrared Thermography is a technique that enables the determination of temperatures from a distance without the need for physical contact with the object under study. This characteristic makes it ideal for thermal inspections and monitoring the condition of electrical, mechanical and process equipment.

Its principle is based on measuring the electromagnetic energy emitted by the surface of all objects in the infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum, which exists above absolute zero (-459 °F = -273 °C) and in the presence of a suitable medium (gas or vacuum). The energy emitted by the object depends on several parameters, with temperature and emissivity of the body under study being the most prominent.

Infrared Thermography also operates under its own set of laws, which help to understand the limitations in applying the technique.

The first law defines that infrared instruments or cameras "sense" the infrared radiation from the surface of most solids and liquids starting from the first thousandth of an inch of the surface. Therefore, they do not measure or "see" temperature, and cannot see through most solids or liquids.

This technique can be applied in two different forms, depending on the specialist's objectives. Qualitative Infrared Thermography allows for the evaluation of temperature patterns in the thermogram to determine the presence of faults. However, when it comes to assessing the severity of a fault, Quantitative Infrared Thermography must be used, involving the application of international standards such as ISO 18434-1 to determine the emissivity and reflected temperature of the target.

Infrared Thermography is often mistakenly considered an easy-to-implement technology, as it might appear as if just turning on the camera and capturing thermal images can achieve effective diagnostics. However, it is very important to understand the factors that affect heat transfer and infrared radiation to obtain high-quality images with actionable and easily interpretable information, avoiding misinterpretation of thermograms and temperature values.

Therefore, we must be convinced that implementing Infrared Thermography requires more than just an initial investment in powerful instrumentation; it demands proper preparation and training for the personnel issuing the diagnostics. Failing to do so may lead to disappointment, despite the initial investment, due to the inability to achieve effective diagnostics or positively impact the economy of the industry.

For this reason, organizations such as ISO, ASNT (American Society for Nondestructive Testing), and BINDT (British Institute of Non-Destructive Testing) have established three levels of training and/or certification for Infrared Thermography analyst technicians involved in maintenance systems, encompassing necessary standards, procedures, and knowledge.