Thermal imaging systems are the main tools used by professionals during electrical testing, but what exactly are they?
In this article, we’ll explain what an infrared imaging system can do, why it is a great test method, and how it can be used effectively in electrical safety inspections.
Despite the reliability of modern electrical components, without proper maintenance, they can quickly deteriorate and cause equipment damage. Infrared electrical scans greatly reduce the chance of system failures and eliminate potential safety hazards.
There is no method as trusted as infrared thermography for detecting problems with electrical systems such as weak connections, defective equipment, and overworked cables before the issues get too serious.
What is Thermographic Imaging for Electrical System?
Thermographers use state-of-the-art thermography cameras to scan power systems for any issues that could lead to failures or damages in the future.
These infrared scanning images will help to determine any hot spots, loose connections, weak components, or other issues that could lead to pricey repair costs if they go unfixed.
A typical infrared electrical inspection will check some or all of the following systems for potential issues:
- Switch Gear
- Transformers
- Service Disconnects
- Transfer Switches
- Bus Runs
- Pumps and Bearings
- Lighting Contactor
- Heating Contactor
- Motor Control Centers
- Circuit Breaker Panels
- Starter motors
- Uninterruptible Power Supply
- Chiller and HVAC Equipment
- Variable-Frequency Drives
What is infrared thermography used for?
Infrared thermal cameras are used to identify any problem areas with electrical equipment before they cause any major issues.
Not only does electrical equipment maintenance ensure a safe workspace, but it can also save your company money in expensive repair costs.
An infrared thermography inspection can quickly determine any equipment that could suffer from high resistance, loose connections, or faulty components. Catching these issues before they result in major damage is always preferable.
Why you need to use thermal imaging in electrical work
Over recent years, electrical systems have become increasingly safe and reliable. This has not reduced the need for electrical inspection services.
All electrical systems require a stable and strong connection to carry the arc of electricity on a safe and secure path. Even the most trusted and solid connections can shift to be disconnected or decline in condition leading to a potentially dangerous and costly disconnect.
Thermal imaging can draw attention to these weak connections before any big issues arise, keeping your workplace safe and operating as efficiently as possible.
What could happen if you do not undergo infrared inspection on your electrical systems
Seemingly small electrical problems can quickly lead to fires, explosions, chemical leakages, and other costly issues.
Any business will want to strive to ensure that this does not happen to them, and the easiest way to do this is to have regular infrared electrical inspections.
Final Thoughts
An infrared scan can save your company funds through lower long-term maintenance costs. In the case of electrical equipment, the prevention of problems is definitely better than the cure!
Infrared electrical testing is non-invasive and non-disruptive.
All businesses should be considering investing in infrared inspections in order to ensure the safety of their employees and keep their company operating in the most efficient way possible.
