ASTM C1060-90(1997)e1
(Practice)Standard Practice for Thermographic Inspection of Insulation Installations in Envelope Cavities of Frame Buildings
Standard Practice for Thermographic Inspection of Insulation Installations in Envelope Cavities of Frame Buildings
SCOPE
1.1 This practice is a guide to the proper use of infrared imaging systems for conducting qualitative thermal inspections of building walls, ceilings, roofs, and floors, framed in wood or metal, that may contain insulation in the spaces between framing members. This procedure allows the detection of cavities where insulation may be inadequate or missing and allows identification of areas with apparently adequate insulation.
1.2 This practice offers reliable means for detecting suspected missing insulation. It also offers the possibility of detecting partial-thickness insulation, improperly installed insulation, or insulation damaged in service. Proof of missing insulation or a malfunctioning envelope requires independent validation. Validation techniques, such as visual inspection or in-situ -value measurement, are beyond the scope of this practice.
1.3 This practice is limited to frame construction even though thermography can be used on all building types.
1.4 Instrumentation and calibration required under a variety of environmental conditions are described. Instrumentation requirements and measurement procedures are considered for inspections from both inside and outside the structure. Each vantage point offers visual access to areas hidden from the other side.
1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The inch-pound units given in parentheses are for information only.
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. In particular, caution should be taken in the handling of any cryogenic liquids or pressurized gases required for use in this practice. Specific precautionary statements are given in Notes 1 and 3.
General Information
Relations
Standards Content (Sample)
NOTICE: This standard has either been superceded and replaced by a new version or discontinued.
Contact ASTM International (www.astm.org) for the latest information.
e1
Designation: C 1060 – 90 (Reapproved 1997)
Standard Practice for
Thermographic Inspection of Insulation Installations in
Envelope Cavities of Frame Buildings
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C 1060; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (e) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
e NOTE—Keywords were added editorially in May 1997.
1. Scope responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
1.1 This practice is a guide to the proper use of infrared
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. In particular,
imaging systems for conducting qualitative thermal inspections
caution should be taken in the handling of any cryogenic
of building walls, ceilings, roofs, and floors, framed in wood or
liquids or pressurized gases required for use in this practice.
metal, that may contain insulation in the spaces between
Specific precautionary statements are given in Note 1 and Note
framing members. This procedure allows the detection of
3.
cavities where insulation may be inadequate or missing and
allows identification of areas with apparently adequate insula-
2. Referenced Documents
tion.
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.2 This practice offers reliable means for detecting sus-
C 168 Terminology Relating to Thermal Insulating Materi-
pected missing insulation. It also offers the possibility of
als
detecting partial-thickness insulation, improperly installed in-
E 1213 Test Method for Minimum Resolvable Temperature
sulation, or insulation damaged in service. Proof of missing
Difference for Thermal Imaging Systems
insulation or a malfunctioning envelope requires independent
validation. Validation techniques, such as visual inspection or
3. Terminology
in-situ R-value measurement, are beyond the scope of this
3.1 Definitions—Definitions pertaining to insulation are de-
practice.
fined in Terminology C 168.
1.3 This practice is limited to frame construction even
2,3 3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
though thermography can be used on all building types.
3.2.1 anomalous thermal image—an observed thermal pat-
1.4 Instrumentation and calibration required under a variety
tern of a structure that is not in accordance with the expected
of environmental conditions are described. Instrumentation
thermal pattern.
requirements and measurement procedures are considered for
3.2.2 envelope—the construction, taken as a whole or in
inspections from both inside and outside the structure. Each
part, that separates the indoors of a building from the outdoors.
vantage point offers visual access to areas hidden from the
3.2.3 field-of-view (FOV)—the total angular dimensions,
other side.
expressed in degrees or radians, within which objects can be
1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
imaged, displayed, and recorded by a stationary imaging
standard. The inch-pound units given in parentheses are for
device.
information only.
3.2.4 framing spacing—distance between the centerlines of
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
joists, studs, or rafters.
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
3.2.5 infrared imaging system—an instrument that converts
the spatial variations in infrared radiance from a surface into a
1 two-dimensional image of that surface, in which variations in
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C-16 on Thermal
Insulation and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C16.30 on Thermal radiance are displayed as a range of colors or tones.
Measurement.
3.2.6 infrared thermography—the process of generating
Current edition approved June 29, 1990. Published August 1990. Originally
thermal images that represent temperature and emittance varia-
published as C 1060 – 86. Last previous edition C 1060 – 86.
tions over the surfaces of objects.
ISO/TC 163/SC 1/WG N31E Thermal Insulation—Qualitative Detection of
Thermal Irregularities in Building Envelopes—Infrared Method, available from
American National Standards Institute, 1430 Broadway, New York, NY 10018.
3 4
Guidelines for Specifying and Performing Infrared Inspections, Infraspection Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 04.06.
Institute, Shelburne, VT, 1988. Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 03.03.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, United States.
NOTICE: This standard has either been superceded and replaced by a new version or discontinued.
Contact ASTM International (www.astm.org) for the latest information.
e1
C 1060 – 90 (1997)
3.2.7 instantaneous field of view (IFOV)—the smallest guish the framing from the envelope cavities under the
angle, in milliradians, that can be instantaneously resolved by prevailing thermal conditions with the infrared imaging system
a particular infrared imaging system. at a distance that permits recognition of thermal anomalies. For
3.2.8 masonry veneer—frame construction with a non-load planning an equipment purchase or a site visit, the following
bearing exterior masonry surface. qualities may be considered: The minimum resolvable tem-
3.2.9 minimum resolvable temperature difference perature difference (MRTD) defines temperature resolution.
(MRTD)—a measure of the ability of the operators of an Instantaneous field of view (IFOV) is an indicator of spatial
infrared imaging system to discern temperature differences resolution. Appendix X1 explains how to calculate IFOV and
with that system. The MRTD is the minimum temperature how to measure MRTD.
difference between a four-slot test pattern of defined shape and 6.2.1 Spectral Range—The infrared thermal imaging sys-
size and its blackbody background at which an average tem shall operate within a spectral range between 2 and 14 μm.
observer can discriminate the pattern with that infrared imag- 6.2.2 Field of View (FOV)—The critical minimum dimen-
ing system at a defined distance. sions for discriminating missing insulation in frame construc-
3.2.10 thermal pattern—a representation of colors or tones tion is two framing spacings wide and one framing spacing
that indicate surface temperature and emittance variation. high. Outdoors, it is typically convenient to view at least one
3.2.11 thermogram—a recorded image that maps the appar- floor-to-ceiling height across and one-half that distance high.
ent temperature pattern of an object or scene into a correspond- The FOV of the chosen imaging system should encompass
ing contrast or color pattern. these minimum dimensions from the chosen indoor viewing
3.2.12 zone—a volume of building served by a single distance, d , and outdoor viewing distance, d . For planning
i o
ventilation system. For buildings with natural ventilation only, purposes, the angular value of FOV may be calculated for
the whole building shall be considered a zone with all interior either d (m) by the following equations:
doors open.
FOV $ 2 tan ~h/2d! (1)
vertical
FOV $ 2 tan ~w/2d! (2)
4. Summary of Practice horizontal
4.1 This practice is a guide to the proper use of infrared
where:
imaging systems for conducting qualitative thermal inspections
h = vertical distance viewed, m, and
of building walls, ceilings, roofs, and floors, framed in wood or
w = horizontal distance viewed, m.
metal, that may contain insulation in the spaces between
framing members. Imaging system performance is defined in 7. Knowledge Requirement
terms of instantaneous field of view (IFOV) and minimum
7.1 This practice requires operation of the imaging system
resolvable temperature difference (MRTD). Conditions under
and interpretation of the data obtained. The same person may
which information is to be collected and compiled in a report
perform both functions. The operator of the infrared imaging
are specified. Adherence to this standard practice requires a
system shall have thorough knowledge of its use through
final report of the investigation. This practice defines the
training, the manufacturer’s manuals, or both. The interpretor
contents of the report.
of the thermographic data shall be knowledgeable about heat
transfer through building envelopes and about thermography,
5. Significance and Use
including the effects of stored heat, wind, and surface moisture.
7.2 The instrument shall be operated in accordance with the
5.1 Although infrared imaging systems have the potential to
determine many factors concerning the thermal performance of published instructions of the manufacturer.
a wall, roof, floor, or ceiling, the emphasis in this practice is on
8. Preferred Conditions
determining whether insulation is missing or whether an
insulation installation is malfunctioning. Anomalous thermal
8.1 The criterion for satisfactory thermal conditions is the
images from other apparent causes may also be recorded as
ability to distinguish framing members from cavities. Appen-
supplemental information, even though their interpretation
dix X2 gives some guidelines for determining whether the
may require procedures and techniques not presented in this
weather conditions are likely to be suitable.
practice.
9. Procedure
6. Instrumentation Requirements
9.1 Preliminary Inspection—A preliminary thermographic
6.1 Environmental Factors—The environment has a signifi- inspection may be performed to determine whether a thorough
cant impact on the heat flow through the envelope. As a result, inspection, and report, is warranted.
the requirements on thermal imaging instrumentation vary with 9.2 Background Information—Prepare for the report by
the interior to exterior air temperature gradient for both interior collecting information on the building. In order to evaluate the
and exterior inspections and also vary with wind speed for structure, collect the following preliminary data where practi-
exterior inspections. cal and necessary:
6.2 Infrared Imaging System Performance—The ability of 9.2.1 Note each type of building cross section, using visual
an observer to detect thermal anomalies depends on the inspection, construction drawings, or both, to determine what
imager’s powers of thermal and spatial resolution. The practi- thermal patterns to expect.
cal test for these qualities is whether the operator can distin- 9.2.2 Additions or modifications to the structure.
NOTICE: This standard has either been superceded and replaced by a new version or discontinued.
Contact ASTM International (www.astm.org) for the latest information.
e1
C 1060 – 90 (1997)
9.2.3 Thermal problems reported by the building owner/ 10.1.3 Location and total area of added insulation (if 10.1.1
occupant. and 10.1.2 were performed in a thermographic inspection prior
to adding insulation).
9.2.4 Note differences in surface materials or conditions that
10.1.4 Estimated total area of surfaces that cannot be
may affect emittance, for example, metallic finishes, polished
inspected.
surfaces, stains, or moisture. Such differences in emittance
10.2 Interpretation of thermographic images requires aware-
cause thermal patterns that are independent of temperature
ness of the following types of patterns:
differences.
10.2.1 Intact Insulation—As seen from the warm side of the
9.2.5 Orientation of the building with respect to the points
construction: dark parallel lines, representing the framing;
of the compass.
uniformly lighter areas between the framing lines, representing
9.2.6 Heat sources, such as light fixtures, mounted in or
the insulation. As seen from the cool side of the construction:
close to the exterior construction.
the framing lines are light. The areas containing insulation are
9.3 Performing On-Site Equipment Check and Settings:
uniformly dark.
9.3.1 Set the instrument gain or contrast to allow the
NOTE 1—Caution: Metal framing with no insulation may fit this
observer to distinguish a framing member from the envelope
description. See Note 2.
area around it. In addition, set the imager’s sensitivity so that
NOTE 2—Metal framing conducts heat better than both air and insula-
any anomalies or areas to which they are referenced are not in
tion. If insulation is present, the thermal contrast between metal framing
saturation (maximum brightness or white) or in suppression
and the spaces between may be very strong. Independent verification may
(minimum brightness or black) on the display.
be needed for metal-framed buildings to establish typical patterns for
9.3.2 Verify proper operation of the recording system, if
insulated and uninsulated areas.
any.
10.2.2 Insulation Missing Completely—As seen from the
9.3.3 Make a sketch or photograph of each envelope area
warm side of the construction: light parallel lines, representing
with references for locating framing members.
the framing; darker areas between the framing lines, represent-
9.4 Performing the Inspection:
ing the empty space between framing members. Convection
9.4.1 A complete thermographic inspection of a building
may be visible in vertical framing, as evidenced by a gradient
may consist of an exterior or interior inspection of the complete
from dark (cooler) at the bottom of the space to light (warmer)
envelope, or both. Both types of inspection are recommended
at the top. As seen from the cool side of the construction: the
because each offers access to areas that may be difficult for the
framing lines are dark, the areas between framing are light and
other.
convection is still lighter at the top of vertical spaces.
9.4.2 Inspect all surfaces of interest from an angle as close
NOTE 3—Caution: Metal framing with no insulation may not fit this
to normal to the surface as possible, but at least at an angle that
description. See Note 2.
permits distinguishing framing members. Make inspections
10.2.3 Insulation Partially Missing—The dominant effect is
from several angles, perpendicular, if possible, and at two
as described in 10.2.1, except that missing insulation shows as
opposite oblique angles in order to detect the presence of
a well-defined dark region, as seen from the warm side and as
reflected radiation.
a light region as seen from the cool side.
9.4.3 Make scans from a position that allows a field of view
10.2.4 Other Thermal Patterns—Irregular variation of the
that encompasses at least two framing spacings wide and one
thermal pattern in the spaces between framing members may
framing spacing high for an interior inspection and a floor-to-
indicate a combination of possible causes, including varying
ceiling height wide and one-half that distance high for an
density of insulation, convection
...
Questions, Comments and Discussion
Ask us and Technical Secretary will try to provide an answer. You can facilitate discussion about the standard in here.