Thermographic Surveys

A Thermographic Survey should always be regarded as complementary to a Periodic Inspection, not a substitute for it.

Our Test Engineers

Our specialist in this area is a technician who is a Member of The Institute Of Non-Destructive Test Engineers. During the course of a survey, an electrically-qualified engineer is likely to be required also to remove panelling and expose the internal components of various electrical accessories.

The survey's benefits are:

* It is extremely useful for customers wishing to assess the possible fire risk from an electrical system that cannot easily be powered down.
* Provides valuable information about overheated components, not necessarily revealed by conventional electrical testing practices.
* Can be instrumental in containing insurance premiums.
* Offers good value-for-money and is usually cost-effective because large areas can be examined in a relatively short space of time.
* It is possible to view electrical accessories at a considerable distance and ascertain the surface temperature of each box to within a few degrees!

Even the very advanced imaging cameras that we use are unable to 'see' through enclosed switchgear and panels have to be removed to view busbar connections or similar items. However, the existence of a problem is generally indicated by an item's surface temperature, relative to that of similar components close by.

How is a Survey planned and carried out?

Initially, we ask for a 'footprint' of the site to identify meaningful locations. Health and safety considerations usually require two people to undertake the task, one being a fully-qualified electrician. Wherever possible, we ask the customer to provide their own electrician in support. Where this is not possible, we will be pleased to provide a supporting second person.

The survey should be carried out when the installation is likely to be under maximum load. Once on-site, a unique barcoded identity number is allocated to each item of switchgear. All test data, except the VHS video recording, is stored electronically.

How are the results reported?

The survey results are tabulated on a template and images provided for any instance where the temperature of a component part is seen to be more that 10 degrees centigrade above the ambient temperature. However, some high temperatures can be entirely normal within a control panel and, in these cases, we indicate the temperature but ask the customer to contact the manufacturer to check if the reported temperature is to be regarded as normal.
Costs

For most installations, a site visit will be needed to establish the likely length of time required for the survey.