A comparative study of infrared thermography for improving defect detection for Radio Frequency equipment on communication towers

This study investigates infrared thermography in non-destructive testing for enhancing visual inspections of communication infrastructure, particularly Radio Frequency equipment on antenna towers. We explore the potential of augmenting these inspections with infrared cameras. IR cameras improve degradation detection capabilities compared to traditional visual spectrum inspections enhancing the ability to detect early signs of equipment degradation, particularly for water intrusion. This paper presents a laboratory-based experiment focused on evaluating the efficacy of three infrared cameras with varying resolutions for detecting degradation in RF equipment used on antenna towers. Key parameters examined include defect size, defect type, distance from the camera to the defect, and the time required for both initial and sustained detection. IR camera-based inspections significantly improves traditional visual inspection methods, allowing early detection of defects, resulting in higher equipment reliability and lifespan, and a safer work environment for employees in areas where this infrastructure is difficult to traditionally inspect. • Enhanced Defect Detection with Infrared Thermography imagery. • Comparative Analysis of three Infrared Cameras with varying resolutions. • Controlled laboratory experiments on the effectiveness of infrared thermography. • IR thermography better detects water intrusions than physical defects. • Provided insights for using IR thermography on communication towers and equipment.