Thermal Imaging

Infrared Windows

Infrared WindowWe can install Infrared windows to allow non-intrusive and non-shutdown thermal imaging surveys.

 

IR windows are special installations that allow users to see inside electrical installations without the need to power down systems, remove face plates and so on.

 

The IR windows are designed for use with a thermal imaging camera, and when installed into an electrical system the user is able to see through the window accurately. Thermal systems are used to carry out comprehensive analysis on the electrical system.

 

Live images of the heat emitted from the equipment makes the solution highly practical and cost-effective. A qualified technician or electrician will point the imager at the equipment in question, scans the immediate area for unexpected hot spots, then captures the specific image. After inspection, the images and data are put through further analysis.

 

Connections and Wiring

Connections and Wiring

We look for connections that have higher temperatures than other similar connections under similar loads. That could indicate a loose, over-tightened or corroded connection with increased resistance. Connection-related hot spots usually, but not always, appear warmest at the spot of resistance, cooling with distance from that spot.

 

In some cases, a cold component is an abnormal due to the current being haunted away from the higher-resistance connection. Broken or under sized wires or defective insulation may also be found.

 

The National Electrical Testing Association (NETA) guidelines say that when the difference in temperature (DT) between similar components under similar loads exceeds 15C (~25F), immediate repairs should be undertaken.

 

Troubleshooting Electrical Systems

thermal-imaging.pngThermal Imaging can help with:

 

  • Troubleshooting
  • Three Phase Imbalance
  • Connection and Wiring
  • Fuses

  

 

Three -Phase Imbalance

We Will capture images of all electrical panels and other high-load connection points such as drives, disconnects, controls and so on. Wherever higher temperatures are discovered, we follow that circuit and examine associated branches and loads.

 

A comparison of all three is made to calculate the temperature differences. A cooler-than normal circuit or leg might signal a failed component. More heavily loaded phases will appear warmer. Hot conductors may be undersized or overloaded. Since an unbalanced load, an overload, a bad connection and harmonics create similar patterns, it is important to follow up with electrical or power quality measurements to accurately diagnose the issue.

Fuses

If a fuse shows up hot on a thermal scan, it may be at or near its current capacity. Not all problems are hot, a blown fuse would produce a cooler than normal temperature.

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