Evaluation of plastic deformation for steel coupons using thermography

The construction industry is undergoing significant technological changes with high-tech advances such as infrared thermography and non-destructive testing (NDT). Research is focusing on the use of thermography to measure thermal changes during plastic deformation to improve safety and streamline inspection processes. A recent study has confirmed that thermal data can detect plastic deformation. The theory is that thermal energy is generated during the deformation of a steel component when it is loaded. Building upon this theory, several studies are working on development of a thermal camera system to measure thermal changes during plastic deformation. The objective of this study was to estimate the degree of deformation of steel coupons based on thermal data. A tensile test was conducted using a thermography to measure thermal changes resulting from plastic deformation. Passive methods were used in the test and the results were compared with thermocouple data and thermal data. Additional parameters such as temperature, humidity, and illuminance, were collected to increase objectivity and reliability. The results of the study confirmed that thermal data can indeed confirm plastic deformation.