Electrical systems and equipment are critical to the operations of many businesses. However, they are also subject to wear and tear, and degradation over time, which can lead to electrical faults and failures that can cause downtime, safety hazards, and loss of revenue. To prevent these problems, businesses need to implement a proactive maintenance program that includes testing or inspecting electrical assets’ conditions. One of the most effective and efficient testing methods for detecting electrical faults is thermographic inspection. In this article, we will explore what electrical thermographic inspection is, why it is essential for businesses to conduct routine infrared inspections as part of a preventive maintenance program.
Electrical thermographic inspection is a non-destructive testing method that uses thermal imaging technology to identify potential faults and issues in electrical equipment. Electrical components generate heat as they operate, and any malfunction or fault will increase the temperature of the component. A thermographic camera can detect the temperature differences and provide an image that displays the thermal patterns of the equipment. By analyzing these patterns, a qualified thermographer can identify potential faults and issues that may not be visible to the naked eye.
Thermographic inspection is an efficient testing method because it provides a non-invasive means of detecting faults on energized electrical systems. Traditional inspection methods that require equipment shutdown, can cause significant downtime and disruption to business operations. On the other hand, electrical thermographic inspection can be conducted while the equipment is in operation, reducing downtime and the need for expensive shutdowns. Also, the technology used in the camera makes it possible to detect temperature differences as small as 0.1°C, allowing for early and accurate detection of potential problems before they become critical.
According to the NFPA 70B, routine infrared inspections of energized electrical systems should be performed annually prior to shut down, and more frequent inspections for example, quarterly or semi-annually, should be performed where warranted by loss experience, installation of new electrical equipment, or changes in environmental, operational, or load conditions. The NFPA 70B details preventive maintenance for electrical, electronic, and communication systems and equipment to prevent equipment failures and worker injuries. In the latest 2023 revision of NFPA 70B, electrical thermographic inspection is now mandatory and enforceable by OSHA. Facilities with aging electrical assets are particularly vulnerable to problems caused by wear and tear, so it is essential to conduct more frequent routine inspections. While OSHA's adoption of these NFPA Standards applies only in the US, many countries have adopted some form of the NFPA standards into their own regulations.
Electrical distribution systems comprise various assets, including transformers, switchgear, circuit breakers, fuses, motors, and generators, among others. Each component is susceptible to specific types of faults, which can be detected through thermographic inspection. During an infrared inspection, these assets can be checked for various faults, including:
| Hotspot detected at Sp2 caused by loose connection |
| Hotspot caused by load imbalances (red indicator) |
| Cold spot indicating defective radiator |
| Cold spot indicating defective circuit breaker |
An excerpt from the NPFA 70B document declares, "a well-administered Electrical Preventative Maintenance program will reduce accidents, save lives, and minimize costly break downs and unplanned shutdowns of production equipment.”
Implementing a thermographic inspection program as part of a preventive maintenance program has several benefits for businesses, including:
In addition, a study by the Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP) estimated that an annual thermographic inspection program could yield a savings of 30-40% over reactive maintenance, demonstrates the value of including thermographic inspection in a preventive maintenance program.
Electrical thermographic inspection is a powerful tool that businesses can use to improve safety and reduce downtime. By detecting faults early, businesses can extend the life of their electrical assets, prevent costly downtime, and reduce the risk of equipment failure and personnel injuries. Adopting electrical thermographic inspection as part of a preventive maintenance program can provide businesses with a competitive advantage, improve their bottom line, and ensure compliance with industry regulations. Thus, investing in electrical thermographic inspections is a smart decision for any business looking to improve safety and reduce downtime, and our team is here to help you achieve your maintenance goals. Contact us today to request a free quotation and consultation and visit our website at www.amkatech.solutions to learn more about our services.