An Electrical Infrared Assessment uses thermal imaging to identify abnormal temperature conditions within energized electrical equipment. Elevated temperatures can indicate loose or deteriorating connections, overloaded components, phase imbalances or other conditions that may require maintenance or further investigation.
Because the assessment is completed while equipment is operating, it can identify conditions that may not be visible during a conventional visual inspection.
Why Complete an Electrical Infrared Assessment?
Electrical components can deteriorate over time as connections loosen, equipment ages and electrical loads change. Increased resistance at a connection or component can generate heat before the condition results in equipment failure.
Periodic infrared assessments can identify these conditions at an earlier stage, allowing repairs to be completed as part of planned maintenance rather than following an unexpected failure.
Infrared assessments can also be useful when investigating electrical problems, following modifications to electrical systems or assessing older electrical distribution equipment.
Equipment Reviewed
Depending on the building and scope of the assessment, equipment reviewed may include:
- Main electrical service equipment
- Switchgear and switchboards
- Distribution panels
- Disconnects and switches
- Motor control equipment
- Transformers
- Other accessible electrical distribution equipment
Reliance Electrical Infrared Services
Reliance Asset Consulting completes infrared assessments of accessible energized electrical distribution equipment using thermal imaging equipment.
Electrical equipment is scanned for abnormal temperature patterns and apparent differences between comparable components or phases. Where electrical panel covers can be readily and safely removed, the covers are removed to allow direct thermal imaging of the internal components and connections.
Where an abnormal condition is identified, thermal and visual images are recorded for inclusion in the report.
The assessment is completed under the electrical load conditions present at the time of the inspection.
REPORTING
Following the assessment, we provide a written report identifying the equipment reviewed and abnormal thermal conditions observed. Identified conditions are documented with thermal and visual photographs, together with the recorded temperatures and location of the equipment.
The report provides recommendations for further investigation, maintenance or repair where required. Conditions requiring more immediate attention are identified so they can be prioritized for review by a qualified electrical contractor.