All objects emit energy (heat) in the form of electromagnetic radiation. Infrared thermography is a technique used to detect and measure this radiation to determine the temperature of objects. During an Infrared Scanning Survey, a scanner is used to detect areas of abnonomal temperature. Detection of these anomalies is used to diagnose problem areas and their severity in electrical equipment, mechanical equipment, roof and building structures.

As a part of a predictive/preventative maintenance program, Infrared Scanning makes it possible to find problems before costly failures occur.  In addition, when performed on operating equipment, Infrared Scanning does not interrupt normal operation, is performed without making contact with objects being scanned, can be made while operating at full load and can be made from a safe distance away from high voltage equipment, equipment at high temperatures and equipment in a corrosive environment.

Some examples of electrical equipment where thermography is used:

• Primary power source: Outdoor high voltage switchyard
• Switchgear
• Transformers
• Low voltage installations: Breaker panels, faulty electrical outlets/wall sockets
• Fuse panels
• Motor control centers (MCC)
• Electrical cabinets

Some examples of mechanical equipment where thermography is used:

• Pumps: Overheated connections fuse problems, overloaded electrical cables, etc…
• Process valves: Open, closed, leakage
• Storage tanks: Sludge levels
• Pipelines: Check if and where there are anomalies, for example locate buildup of scale, etc…
• Motors: Overheating bearings, misalignment, overheated windings
• Conveyor belts: Overheated bearings
• Furnace inspections: With a special camera designed to “see through flames” for high temperature industrial furnace applications, ideal for monitoring all types of furnaces, heaters and boilers