In Thermography of Electrical Systems

Several critical parameters are assessed through infrared imaging to detect temperature variations that may indicate underlying issues in electrical components.
The primary focus is on identifying overheating or irregular temperature patterns, which often point to problems like loose electrical connections, imbalanced loads, or defective insulation.

Key Parameters Assessed in Thermography:

• Temperature Distribution: Thermal images are captured to monitor the temperature of electrical components such as circuit breakers, transformers, switchgear, and cables.
  Abnormal hot spots indicate potential failures or inefficiencies that could lead to costly breakdowns.
• Overheating in Equipment: Identifying components such as transformers, motors, and fuses that are running at temperatures above their operational limits.
  Overheating can signal issues like excessive load, poor ventilation, or internal faults.
• Loose Connections: Thermography detects areas where connections (e.g., in switchgear or panel boards) are not properly tightened, causing resistance and resulting in localized heating.
  These can be potential fire hazards or sources of energy loss.
• Electrical Insulation Failures: Areas of electrical insulation that may be deteriorating or damaged are identified by temperature differences, indicating the need for maintenance or replacement before a short circuit or electrical failure occurs.
• Phase Imbalance: Thermographic imaging can identify phase imbalances in three-phase electrical systems by measuring temperature differences between phases.
  Imbalances can lead to inefficient power usage and additional strain on electrical equipment.
• Load Imbalances: By evaluating temperature differences in conductors, thermography can reveal instances where certain circuits or electrical devices are overburdened, leading to inefficient power distribution.

By identifying these thermal anomalies early, thermography helps in preventing costly equipment failures, improving safety, and optimizing the performance and longevity of electrical systems.
Regular thermographic inspections are crucial for industries where electrical reliability is critical, such as manufacturing plants, power stations, and commercial facilities.