Although you may be the engineer responsible for installing the IR window you may not be the one using it. Record all required target data inside the panel, this will make sure that the same data is recorded using the same inspection parameters each time the window is used, ensuring nothing is missed and quality data is recorded each and every time the window is used.

Affixing information labels is an important final step in the installation process. One label should identify how to use the infrared window. An additional label should contain the following information that will be critical in performing a thorough and accurate infrared inspection:

• Each inspection window should be given a unique identification number. This will be invaluable, especially, if there are multiple windows on one electrical panel.

• Document the type of window lens material and the effective wavelength of the window (MW and LW).

• Record the transmission rate of the window, and the proper transmission compensation value for the MW and LW using your own camera where possible.

• Record all target data on the on the ID label. The most common method of documenting target location is the clock face method: i.e. bus bar connections at 4 o'clock. It should be noted that there may be multiple targets being surveyed through the IR window.

• Note the emissivity of the internal targets (especially important if you have not managed to standardize using IRID target labels).

• Some cameras do not have the ability to adjust the external optics transmission; therefore, some thermographers may use the emissivity settings on the camera to cover transmission and emissivity losses, if you are using this method this setting should be recorded on the label.

Remember an unlabeled window will reduce the effectiveness of the installation!! Any best practice needs easily repeatable quality data collection procedures at all times, correctly labeling the Infrared window installation is the final step to ensuring this happens....

For more information on this subject and others please download 10 things you need to know about infrared windows at www.iriss.com.

Tip provided by: Martin Robinson, CMRP, Level III Thermographer
IRISS, Inc.