Infrared
Thermography in Power Engineering Systems. Today’s
requirement for an effective maintenance plan has never been
so critical due to increasing pressure from our clients to
ensure the perfect operation of their power systems. For
many, thermal imaging has evolved into one of the most
valuable diagnostic tools to be used for predictive
maintenance (PdM). By utilising the most up-to-date
equipment Metricab Power Engineering Ltd., are proud
to offer this service to our clients.
Thermal imaging,
also called thermography, is the production of non-contact
infrared pictures from which temperature measurements can
be made. This technique is used to detect anomalies often
invisible to the naked eye, even while electrical systems
are under load. When a connection becomes loose there is a
resistance to current that can cause an increase in temperature
and subsequent failure of components, potentially resulting
in unplanned outages and possible injury. In addition, the
efficiency of an electrical grid becomes low prior to failure,
thus energy is spent generating heat, causing unnecessary
losses. If left unchecked, heat can rise to a point at which
connections will melt and break the circuit; as a result fires
may occur.
Besides loose
connections, electrical systems suffer from load imbalances,
corrosion, and increase in impedance to current. Thermography
will quickly locate hot spots, determine the severity of the
problem and help to establish the time scale in which the
equipment should be repaired. Thermography is also particularly
useful for inspecting indoor and outdoor components such as
motor control centres, substations, breaker panels, switchgear,
transformers and circuit breakers. Thermography
not only detects high temperatures but can also be used to
detect temperatures that have fallen below recommended levels,
thus providing a very wide range of functions.
All
surveys are qualified by a fully comprehensive report, detailing
our findings and recommendations for the repair of any
faul. For more information on the use of Electrical
Power Distribution and Installation:
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