Thermal Imaging (Infrared Scanning)

What is Infrared Scanning?

Infrared scanning identifies the transfer of infrared heat radiation from an object. It provides the means to scan the thermal emissions of various surfaces and display an image of temperature distribution. This reveals possible problem areas that may need to be dealt with to improve the safety and efficiency of machinery, building structures or electrical apparatus.

Using infrared thermography as a diagnostic tool, or thermal imaging as it is sometimes called, is a condition monitoring technique that measures the radiant heat pattern which is emitted from a body, such as building structures, or plant equipment. This technique can determine regions or points of increased or reduced heat emissions, which can indicate the presence of a fault in the body.

Features and Benefits

Regular thermal imaging can detect potentially serious faults in electrical and mechanical equipment before they develop.

Early detection and scheduling of remedial action have obvious benefits where interruption of supply is of a critical nature.

The operation of the thermographic equipment will not interfere with a company’s normal day to day running, as the technique is non-invasive and non-destructive.

Benefits include:

• Cost Savings
• Early Detection of Potential Faults
• Assurance of Supply
• Building Hazard Reduction
• Non Destructive
• No Down Time
• Insurance Premium Rebates

Applications

• Electrical switchgear
• Metering Panels
• Mechanical Services Panels
• Bearings and Drive Systems
• Lubricant & Cooling Fluid monitoring
• Storage Tank Assessments
• Refractory Lines & Steam Traps
• Coolroom Seal Integrity
• Building Structure Integrity

 Qualifications

• Often Thermographers are licensed electricians which allows them to remove the covers from electrical switchboards without the need for an additional electrician.
• Thermographers should be accredited to Australian Standard AS3998

 Frequency

Thermal Imaging on a new build is often a good idea to identify and rectify issues from the beginning. After the first year, and dependant on the industry and environment it could be reasonable to reduce the frequency to 3 yearly until the building hits 9 -10 years. After 9 years at least annual inspections would be recommended.

Most Insurance Companies not only recommend annual Thermal Imaging of electrical switchboards but some offer incentives to encourage such inspections.