Infrared Thermography
Infrared thermography is widely accepted as one of the most comprehensive analysis tools
available in the electrical industry… so what is it?
Infrared (IR) light is located on the electromagnetic spectrum below visible light. IR light has
less energy and longer wavelengths than visible light and cannot be seen by the unaided eye.
However, thermal imaging devices, like the FLIR cameras our PowerHawke technicians use,
obtain outlines of the object based on heat emitted, or infrared radiation. Infrared thermal
imaging of electrical distribution system components allows us to find defective devices
through elevated temperatures. Temperature change is often a red flag of impending harm to
the building, or even worse, employees of the facility.
A connection may
look fine to the naked
eye (left) but when
viewed under a
thermal lens (right)
this potentially
dangerous hot spot is
easily visible.
Electrical equipment conducts, generates, and consumes power. Equipment emits heat as a
result of energy loss. When the devices become less efficient, the amount of heat emitted
increases, and therefore increases risks to your facility. These “hot spots” can cause potential
fire, explosion, and/or electrical service interruption threats.
The most common electrical causes of such hot spots result from:
• Loose or dirty connections - loose connections occur naturally as metal parts expand
and contract with heat;
• Excessive current draw - as service expansions, additions or uses change - overloads may
occur;
•
Defective components - electrical components don’t always fail open. Excessive heat
for long periods of time may cause a protection device to fuse closed which will result in
a failure.
In fact, loose connections and parts account for 30.3% of all electrical distribution failures. The
connection problem leads to an increase in temperature at a higher point of resistance. With no
intervention, these components can reach a state of catastrophe, resulting in an electrical fire
or a total shutdown.
So how can you prevent this from happening?
Infrared and visual inspections, as part of a regular PowerHawke preventive maintenance plan,
can result in net savings for your company, depending upon the number and category of the
problems found. A typical survey results in financial savings from $10,000 to $20,000. The
information acquired from the infrared survey cuts down on maintenance time, prevents future
interruptions and costly replacements. A business benefits from a more reliable and productive
system as well as there being fewer “panic” situations for managers and employees. Most
importantly, infrared inspections, done safely and according to NFPA 70E, contribute to a safe
work environment.
Infrared surveys are a non-contact and non-invasive procedure performed on your energized
electrical equipment. The assessments are conveniently performed under normal loads with no
interruption or power shutdown. Detailed reports of equipment are provided to reveal the
location, problem description, and mitigation recommendation for thermal hotspots.
PowerHawke helps you protect what matters. Infrared thermography can predict a problem
before it occurs, saving you time and money by increasing the reliability and productivity of
your entire operation. An infrared inspection can give you peace of mind by protecting your
most important assets – your valued employees and your building.
Contact Bob O’Meara for more information on how infrared thermography can help your
facility by calling 860-507-8813 or emailing him.
132 Scott Swamp Road ▪ Farmington, CT 06032
Phone: 860-606-0065 ▪ Fax: 860-606-0026
http://powerhawke.com ▪ www.facebook.com/powerhawke