What is thermography?
Thermography is the study of heat distribution and looks at visual pictures of thermal data. When performed in an industrial setting, thermography is a safe and non-invasive way to test the parts, operations and mechanics of a system. Of all the important predictive maintenance to perform, thermography is one of the most efficient ways to identify problems in any facility.
How do thermography studies work?
A trained Serve Electric team member comes to your facility with proper PPE. For optimal effectiveness of the study, our team removes the barriers from all panels or other equipment and takes pictures using a thermal camera. While we’re at it, it is highly cost effective to combine a Thermography Study with an Arc Flash Study or Power Quality Study because Serve personnel only have to remove the barriers once.
Here are 5 reasons why you should prioritize thermography in your predictive maintenance plan:
#1: Early Detection of Failing Parts
When equipment is operating, and a thermal image is taken, the camera will capture “hot” and “cold” spots within the system. Hot parts typically indicate a worn or faulty component, faulty connection, overloaded circuit, or even a potential electrical fire hazard. With this knowledge, the issue can be addressed right at the source before it causes harm or further damage.
Thermography also allows us to analyze parts that are otherwise difficult to reach, poorly lit or otherwise hazardous to test.
#2: Avoids Unplanned Downtime
Thermography helps you avoid unplanned downtime by identifying potential electrical problems, allowing you to address them before the situation worsens. Addressed quickly, you can prevent production loss and shutdowns caused by equipment breakdown.
#3: Improves Operational Efficiencies
When your equipment runs better, so does your entire operation. You don’t need us to tell you that inefficiency is a detrimental force within any production facility.
#4: Brings Overall Value
By being proactive with your maintenance and performing a thermography study, you can be sure to save thousands of dollars in potential shutdown, employee overtime, equipment failure, and save in customer and employee trust.
#5: Keeps Team Members Safe
A thermography study significantly improves the safety of those in your facility. Avoid a catastrophe by proactively identifying hot spots before they become a fire or explosion.
