Quality assurance using thermography

Non-destructive testing methods for quality assurance are becoming of ever increasing importance in economic production. The identification and removal of defects or faulty products and impurities as early as possible in the manufacturing process reduces repair expenditure and avoids customer complaints. Additionally, the constant monitoring enables both control and optimisation of the manufacturing processes. Thermography has already become established as a non-destructive testing method in various fields, for example, in identifying thermal bridges in houses. It enables non-contacting measurement an a wide range of materials. The Fraunhofer Wilhelm-Klauditz-Institut (WKI) in Braunschweig, Germany has developed different thermographic techniques that are already being used successfully in industry, and is currently investigating new fields of application.