Why Do Infrared Services?

Over the last decade Infrared Scanning has increasingly been relied upon to detect heat rises that indicate problems in electrical equipment. Problems that are identified before equipment fails. And, when performed regularly, new problems are isolated when they are minor deficiencies that may be corrected with a simple cleaning, tightening or contact replacement.

Whatever the required corrective action, it is sure to be less disruptive than the loss of the distribution equipment and the shutdown of a critical facility load.

Infrared Scanning has proven to be:

QUICK- Large systems can be quickly and briefly scanned. Entire panels and bays of equipment, etc. can be viewed at one time and any potential trouble spots can be more closely examined.

SAFE- Although equipment is scanned energized, this is a non-invasive procedure. No direct electrical connections are required and nothing is touched. Frequently the Scanning is done from several feet or yards distance from any energized elements.

CONVENIENT- Because Infrared Scanning is performed without requiring a shutdown, the service can be performed during normal business hours, when the desired maximum load is available.

RELIABLE- Scanning, when performed by qualified technicians familiar with the equipment, is a reliable and accurate indication of the condition of a facility’s systems and equipment. Temperature gradients as small as 0.1 C and as large as 100 C can be identified. These temperatures, when used with data, will provide a reliable and precise indication of a deficiency. Also, the severity of the deficiency can be quantified indicating the dispatch with which corrective action need be taken.

COST EFFECTIVE- While the cost of scanning varies with size and complexity, very large facilities can be scanned in one or two days. The cost for each piece of equipment scanned is very small and can be a miniscule percentage of the value of equipment. The leverage of this cost to the value of equipment and unscheduled outage is very high. Another value is in knowing what does and does not require attention during valuable site shutdown time. And even if hot spots are found, isn’t this reassuring to know?