Infrared Thermography

In-situ Dynamic balancing

Thermography is used as it is a highly flexible and effective diagnostic technique, Infrared Thermography is a non-destructive, predictive maintenance technique that can be used to monitor the thermal signatures of plant machinery and electrical apparatus and building systems without disrupting normal operations.

Identifying and rectifying equipment issues before they become problems are a critical part of averting loss and maintaining uninterrupted service. Routine inspections and preventive maintenance can reduce failures, but they cannot reliably identify trouble spots.

IRT Applications

ELECTRICAL

MOTOR CONTROL CENTRES (MCC)
CIRCUIT BREAKERS
TRANSFORMERS
BUSBARS
SWITCHGEAR
RELAY PANELS
FUSES
SUBSTATIONS
TRANSFORMERS
STANDBY BATTERY BANKS

MECHANICAL

VALVES
PUMPS – BEARINGS
OIL COOLERS
INSULATION
STEAM TRAPS
STORAGE VESSELS
PRODUCT LEVELS
FURNACE & KILN REFRACTORY

OFF SHORE OIL & GAS
LEAK DETECTION
HOUSING STOCK SURVEY

How Infrared Thermography works?

All electrical and mechanical equipment radiates heat. Infrared video cameras that are sensitive to this thermal radiation detect and measure the temperature differences between surfaces. The cameras then convert the information and display it as an image visible to the human eye, allowing us to see a heat signature.

Uses with Thermography

Abnormal or unexpected thermal patterns typically indicate a problem with the equipment and including conditions such as:

Fault detection in electrical distribution networks.
Loose electrical connections
Overloaded circuits or phases
Deteriorated or damaged insulation
Misalignment of chain drives systems.
Bearing failure
Insufficient lubrication
Steam leaks
Valve failure in compressors.
Leaks of product from pipelines.
Faulty or loose drive belts.

These and other issues show up as hot spots that a trained professional can interpret to determine the likely cause and potential remedy for examples of actual thermal images showing real equipment issues

Overheated transformer bushing

This transformer experienced an internal problem that manifested itself as an overheated bushing. Within 24 hours, it was removed from service and the back-up unit was installed. This averted potential spoilage of millions of dollars in agricultural products.

Under-lubricated motor bearing

The bearing on the driving end of this motor was reading 187 degrees F, more than 60 degrees above ambient. Upon examination, it was discovered that the lubrication was insufficient. Correcting the problem prevented failure of the motor.

A properly operating steam trap

Not all hot spots indicate a problem. This image shows a steam trap that is operating properly. Faulty steam traps waste energy; infrared Thermography is an invaluable tool for readily detecting them so they can be repaired.

Power Grid Thermography

Thermography for power grid is the process of monitoring a parameter of condition in grid connections, in order to identify a significant change which is indicative of a developing fault. It is a major component of predictive maintenance. The use of the thermography allows maintenance to be scheduled, or other actions to be taken to prevent consequential damages and avoid its consequences.