Tuesday 24/3/2009 Page: 40
ENERGY audits of buildings are becoming increasingly popular as more companies look to establish their green credentials and save money at the same time. Many of the current auditors use simplistic methods to establish energy efficiency, but innovative new uses of technology can provide information about energy savings that is not apparent to the naked eye.Adelaide-based Thermoview, which uses thermal imaging technology, previously specialised in finding safety flaws in electrical equipment. But the company has now identified a range of new applications for thermal imaging that can help clients become more energy efficient.
General manager Peter Erskine says the company is receiving a growing number of inquiries from businesses hoping to improve energy efficiency. "There's a lot of talk about sustainability and people are wondering how they can achieve this," he said. "Thermography can play a real role in identifying the issues." Recently, the company has turned its attention to assessing ceiling insulation.
By taking a picture with a thermal imaging camera, areas where heat is escaping can be easily identified. "Thermography can identify exactly how effective insulation is," Mr Erskine said. Thermoview has also found other ways to use thermal imaging to solve environmental issues. The company is working with the Waite Aboretum to monitor sap flow and assess the health of significant trees during the drought.
The thermal cameras can detect the temperature differences between parts of a tree that are hydrated and parts that are not. The technology is being used in a similar way by vineyards to assess the success of irrigation systems and the water content of grapes.
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