We have recently switched over to PRB Coal. Since then we have had several fires due to the volatility of PRB. I have been asked if using Thermal imaging if I can tell where the fires will develop. I can tell them where the fire is when it gets burning, so I was looking for info on how to determine what temps may indicate a fire may be smoldering down under the pile and has not yet reached ignition stage so to speak.

email me rai@motorcheckcanada.com
I might have solution for your problem
Rai

Looking for an actual temp may not be as practical as a just looking for hotspots in the night (no solar influences). The reason is that the temperature of the hotspot is dependant upon the depth and size of the fire. The technology will work, it just takes some practice, I have been using it on Coal Silos and have had very good success.

We have undertaken stockpile monitoring at several mine sites throughout Australia.As BWC has mentioned it is a good practice to carry out this testing during the very early hours of the morning.
As far as detecting before the fire/flames are found. Thermography is one of the best technique's in finding hot spots or SPON COM locations.
Over here some places use a bull dozer to move the stock pile top surface around, this can help with removing the localized heat area.

I hope this helps.

WARNING: SALES MESSAGE FOLLOWS
If you need any of this testing in Ausralia please contact CCI Pope.
ccipope@ccipope.com.au

The Powder River Basin Coal Users Group at prbcoals.com is another source for additional techniques to monitor your PRB Coal storage areas forv spontaneous combustion.