Problems occur when untrained operators of thermographic equipment are making decisions that vitally affect both production and downtime in their respective industries. An untrained user cancels out many of the benefits associated with thermography. Technicians of other disciplines are fully trained in their work - so should it be with thermographers. All users of the infrared imagers should undertake a recognised and if necessary, a certified level of training.
Until recently the only options have been overseas training or product dependent training from the supplier of the imager. As a key supplier of thermal imagers R&C Instrumentation has identified the necessity for locally-based non-product-specific, recognised training.
R&C Instrumentation now offers a full range of infrared (IR) training programmes, IR programme development and support services, and certification services based on American Society for Non-destructive Testing (ASNT) standards. Snell Infrared has been offering training to thermographers worldwide since 1983. Having trained over 5000 thermographers, is a leader in the industry, with experienced senior instructors holding ASNT NDT Level III certificates and are independent of camera manufacturers, focusing purely on the application of such technology.
Through Snell Infrared and ABB in South Africa, a totally product independent training package is now available. These training classes use innovative training techniques that will give the trainee understanding of theory along with applied hands-on learning. All infrared imagers are welcome in these courses, student to teacher ratios are low to ensure the trainee receives plenty of individual attention. A comprehensive manual, for use in class and later as a reference tool, is included in all levels.
R&C Instrumentation depend on instructors including Dr Roderick Thomas, who has over 10 year's experience in industrial thermography ([email protected]). These individuals are professionally involved in the industry, and also write articles for trade publications and participate in several professional organisations. This ensures trainees are kept up to date with the latest developments in the industry. Two professional engineers and an electrical engineer on staff are available to answer technical questions and add depth to the training programmes.
After the course, Snell Infrared is available with on-going web-based support. R&C Instrumentation will continue to support course graduates to help them achieve their thermographic goals.
At present both Level I and Level II courses are given throughout the year at the ABB training centre in Johannesburg but if numbers allow, local courses will be made available in Durban and Cape Town. Next year the Level III course will be introduced as a final certification to this internationally certified qualification.
For more information contact Steve Edwards, R&C Instrumentation, 032 946 2805.
| Tel: | +27 11 608 1551 |
| Email: | [email protected] |
| www: | www.randci.co.za |
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