Thermographic inspection refers to the nondestructive
testing of parts, materials or systems through the imaging
of the thermal patterns at the object's surface. Strictly
speaking, the term thermography alone, refers to all
thermographic inspection techniques regardless of the
physical phenomena used to monitor the thermal changes.
For instance, the application of a temperature sensitive
coating to a surface in order to measure its temperature is a
thermographic inspection contact technique based on heat
conduction where there is no infrared sensor involved.
Thermographic testing, also known as infrared
inspection, is a contact-free predictive maintenance
method used to detect connections defects, system
overloads, deteriorated insulation, and other potential
problems in electrical components. Infrared
thermography is used to find areas of excess heat so that
problems can be corrected before they lead to excess
power usage, increased maintenance costs, service
interruptions, catastrophic equipment failure, and/or
equipment damage.
How does thermographic testing work?
Thermography measures surface temperatures of electrical components by using highly specialized infrared
visual scanning technology. During a scan, a thermal 'camera' is used to pick up traces of heat that otherwise
do not appear on the visual light spectrum, allowing inspectors to easily identify heat anomalies by their
color in the thermal image.
Why use thermographic testing ?
When current flows through an energized electrical system, it meets resistance from the individual
connections and components within the system. As these components and connections deteriorate over time,
their resistance increases, causing localized increases in heat. Whether it's due to an old connection or a
poorly made component, these concentrations of heat can cause equipment failure and energy waste if left
unchecked. Thermography can detect these temperature increases ahead of time, allowing you to address the
issue before it becomes a serious problem.
Is thermographic testing necessary?
There are several risks associated with electrical equipment failure, some more serious than others.
Equipment failure can be quite costly when you factor in repairs and work stoppages. But there are physical
risks involved too. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates that around ten percent of all
fires that occur in manufacturing facilities are related to electrical system failures. Furthermore, component
and connection failures can expose employees to live electrical circuits, putting them at risk of serious injury
or death from electrocution. Predictive maintenance services such as thermographic testing can help you
avoid these dangers long before they occur.
