Thermographic Non-Destructive Testing
Method for detecting internal and external defects by analyzing heat flows using infrared cameras following targeted thermal excitation. Inhomogeneities disrupt heat conduction and appear as temperature gradients.
Thermography exploits the fact that defects in the material affect heat flow. If you heat the component evenly, cracks, lack of fusion, or other inhomogeneities show up as temperature differences on the surface. It's a non-destructive method, so you don't have to worry about damaging the part. You need a calibrated thermal imaging camera. Heat the workpiece evenly and then observe how the heat distributes. Watch for areas that heat up or cool down faster or slower than the rest – those are the suspicious zones. Compare the image with a defect-free reference piece, then you'll spot deviations most reliably.