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Electrical systems
Thermal imaging cameras are commonly used for inspections of
electrical systems and components in all sizes and shapes.
The multitude of possible applications for thermal imaging cameras
within the range of electrical systems can be divided into two
categories: high voltage and low voltage installations.
High voltage installations
Heat is an important factor in high voltage installations. When electrical
current passes through a resistive element, it generates heat. An
increased resistance results in an increase in heat.
Over time the resistance of electrical connections will increase, due
to loosening and corrosion for instance. The corresponding rise in
temperature can cause components to fail, resulting in unplanned
outages and even injuries. In addition, the energy spent on generating
heat causes unnecessary energy losses. If left unchecked, the heat
can even rise to the point where connections melt and break down; as
a result, fires may break out.
Examples of failures in high-voltage installations that can be detected
with thermal imaging:
• Oxidation of high voltage switches
• Overheated connections •
Incorrectly secured connections
• Insulator defects
These and other issues can be spotted at an early stage with a thermal
imaging camera. A thermal imaging camera will help you to accurately
locate the problem, determine the severity of the problem, and
establish the time frame in which the equipment should be repaired.
A wide view of a substation can quickly show areas where unwanted high
resistance connections exist. No other predictive maintenance technology is
as effective for electrical inspections as thermal imaging.
One of the many advantages of thermal imaging is the ability to perform
inspections while electrical systems are under load. Since thermal imaging
is a non-contact diagnostic method, a thermographer can quickly scan a
particular piece of equipment from a safe distance, leave the hazardous
area, return to his office and analyze the data without ever putting himself
in harm’s way.
Thermal imaging cameras allow you to inspect high voltage installations
from a safe distance, increasing worker safety.
Continuity is very important to utilities since many people rely on their
services. Therefore thermal imaging inspections have become the core of
utility predictive maintenance programs throughout the world.
Thermal imaging cameras are used for inspections of electrical systems and
components in all sizes and shapes and their use is by no means limited to
large high voltage applications alone.
Electrical cabinets and motor control centers are regularly scanned with
a thermal imaging camera. If left unchecked, heat can rise to a point that
connections melt and break down; as a result, fires may break out.
Besides loose connections, electrical systems suffer from load imbalances,
corrosion, and increases in impedance to current. Thermal inspections can
quickly locate hot spots, determine the severity of the problem, and help
establish the time frame in which the equipment should be repaired.
Examples of failures in low voltage equipment that can be detected with
thermal imaging:
• High resistance connections
• Corroded connections
• Internal fuse damage
• Internal circuit breaker faults
• Poor connections and internal damage
These and other issues can be spotted at an early stage with a thermal
imaging camera. This will help to prevent costly damages and to avoid
dangerous situations.
Whether you intend to use thermal imaging cameras for
low voltage inspections in production plants, office facilities,
hospitals, hotels or domestic residences, FLIR Systems has
exactly the right thermal imaging camera for the job.
References: Flir Systems