Thermal Imaging
Thermal Imaging has evolved into one of the most valuable diagnostic tools used for Predictive Maintenance (PM). Also known as thermography, thermal imaging is the production of non-contact infrared, or “heat” pictures from which temperature measurements can be made. By detecting anomalies often invisible to the naked eye-thermography allows corrective action before costly system failures occur. Portable infrared (IR) imaging systems scan electrical systems, then constantly convert the thermal images to visible pictures for quantitive temperature analysis.
Thermographic systems are commonly used for electrical inspections. As electrical connections become loose, there is a resistance to current that can cause an increase in temperature. This increased temperature can then cause components to fail, potentially resulting in unplanned outrages and injuries. In addition, the efficiency of an electrical grid becomes low prior to failure, thus energy is spent generating heat, causing unnecessary losses. If left unchecked, heat can rise to a point where connections melt and break the circuit; as a result, fires may occur.
Besides loose connections, electrical systems suffer from load imbalances, corrosion, and Increase in impedance to current. Thermography can quickly locate hot spots, determine the severity of the problem, and help establish the time frame in which the equipment should be repaired.
Thermography is very useful when inspecting indoor components such as motor control centres, breaker panels, disconnect switches and transformers.
Another key benefit of thermography is the ability to perform inspections while electrical systems are under load. Since thermography is a non-contract diagnostic operations, the test engineer can quickly scan a piece of equipment from a safe distance, leave the hazardous area, and return to a safe place to analyse the data without ever putting himself in harms way.
