What You Can’t See Can Hurt You

Infrared Thermography Brings Invisible Problems to Light

By Diane M. Calabrese

Humans cannot see infrared (IR) waves, but with special thermographicequipment, we can detect them. This technology is particularlyhandy when inspecting and maintaining electrical equipment.Electrical inspectors use thermographic imaging to hunt for “hotspots” that may indicate problems.

“IR waves are visible to certain heat seeking sensors, or thermographs,” says Brian Wellens, Technical Specialist at Parsons Electric. “Anything warmer than absolute zero [-459.67 degrees Fahrenheit] emits energy in the IR range.”

Thermographic inspection gives building and equipment owners a nonintrusive method for evaluating the integrity of systems and system parts — from gears and hydraulic valves to insulation and chiller components. “Assessing the condition of an engine or electrical component without taking equipment apart is a plus in every way,” says Wellens. “It saves time and money.”

In short, IR assessment simplifies preventive upkeep. For more than 20 years, IR thermography has allowed facility managers and maintenance chiefs to stay ahead of equipment failures.

How Does IR Work?

Thermographs capture the heat, or IR waves, emitted by system components as visual images. Inspectors study these pictures for problem areas, such as wiring insulation that requires repair or valves that need tightening. IR testing allows workers to quickly and easily check circuit breakers, panels, bus ducts, starters, switchgear, and all other electrical components.

It also helps detect steam trap leaks, worn bearings, roof leaks, pipe deposits, and faults in building insulation. Wherever temperature differentials point to potential trouble, IR thermographs are put to work.

What Makes IR Useful?

IR testing does not require shutdowns of any kind. Since it doesn’t entail contact with or disassembly of equipment or building components, inspections are performed while parts move and systems operate. “In other words, a routine inspection does not become a synonym for downtime,” says Wellens.

The nonintrusive nature of these inspections also ensures the testing process is safer. In addition, this quality appeals to employees and building residents, who, according to Wellens, are more likely to embrace IR testing due to its unobtrusiveness. For the most part, IR thermography does not disrupt normal business activities.

Perhaps the largest benefit of this technique, however, is its ability to find problems before systems fail or — worse — people get hurt.