Non-Destructive Testing for Shipyards and Boats with C-CheckIR

Maritime applications place special demands on thermographic measurement systems: salty air, humidity, and wind affect the emissivity and heat transfer of the surfaces being tested. Precise emissivity values, reference measurements, and possibly shielding against drafts or reflections are therefore necessary for reliable results.

The most suitable camera technology depends on the smallest temperature difference to be detected, the test speed, and the environmental conditions. Uncooled microbolometers start up quickly and are inexpensive to operate, while cooled detectors are more sensitive and offer higher frame rates but require more additional technology.

In addition, thermography systems must integrate seamlessly into shipyard, dock, or onboard processes. Interfaces such as GenICam/GigE Vision and digital trigger signals allow them to be integrated into mobile test benches, docking facilities, or onboard automation systems.

With its IRSX infrared cameras and C-CheckIR solution, AT Sensors offers a platform for thermographic quality assurance that has been specially developed for maritime requirements.

The functional principle is based on the detection of the radiated heat signature of a surface, from which a precise temperature field is calculated. Passive thermography uses natural temperature differences, such as those caused by solar radiation, cooling phases, or operational heating. In active thermography, the surface is specifically stimulated (e.g., by heating elements, induction, or controlled lighting) to enhance contrasts and reveal hidden inhomogeneities.

Typical applications include:

• Fuselage and deck inspections (sandwich, CFRP, and GFRP structures)
• Inspection of adhesive bonds
• Hotspot detection on control cabinets and power electronics
• Monitoring of bearings and shaft bearings
• Checking tanks and pipes for uneven heating
• Dock-side final and service checks

AT Sensors’ software solutions support users in parameterization, emissivity correction, alarming, and data logging for complete documentation and reproducible results.

Compared to other NDT methods, thermography offers fast, large-area, and contactless analysis, is ideal for screening processes and process-related investigations, and is often used in practice to complement methods such as ultrasound, eddy current, or X-ray. With the IRSX and C-CheckIR, AT Sensors provides thermographic solutions that are optimally tailored to the requirements of the maritime environment, as they are robust, reproducible, and can be seamlessly integrated into shipyard and on-board processes.