High voltage, RF and microwave circuits pose unique measurement problems. Putting probes or thermocouples on the components may pose a safety hazard or alter the performance of the circuits. Thermal imaging, by virtue of its non-contact measurement technique, avoids this shortcoming. Airborne systems can be used to see through smoke at forest fires. In the USA, imaging is being used to test refrigerators and ovens for energy efficiency.
Scans can quickly showup losses around seals or where insulation has been improperly installed.
Image data can be saved to computer files for later evaluation and documentation. Imaging can be used to monitor continuous processes where heat and temperature are indicators of process control. In paper processing heat profiles can be an indicator of moisture content. One manufacturer is exploring using thermal imaging to measure the temperature uniformity of moulds used in producing chocolate candies. Temperature variations may result in defective candies.