Specialist Services // Thermographic Inspections

Thermal imaging has evolved into one of the most valuable diagnostic tools for predictive maintenance (PdM). By utilising the most up to date equipment Hirst Electrical are proud to offer this service to our clients.

Thermal imaging, also called thermography, is the production of non-contact infrared pictures from which temperature measurements can be made. This technique is used to detect anomalies often invisible to the naked eye, even while electrical systems are under load.

Thermographic inspections should be a regular part of a predictive maintenance programme. An indication of impending faults in mechanical and electrical systems and components is a rise in temperature due to increased resistance and friction.

This temperature increase can be detected and quantified using the latest thermal cameras. Hirst Electrical’s state-of-the-art thermal infra-red cameras operate in a similar way to a standard video camera and an image of the temperature distribution of the component can be obtained. Should any part of the component be significantly warmer than other similar parts, a recording of the suspect component is taken. The magnitude of temperature rise will be illustrated and the seriousness of the fault can be determined.

When a connection becomes loose there is a resistance to current that can cause an increase in temperature and subsequent failure of components, potentially resulting in unplanned outages and possible injury. In addition, the efficiency of an electrical grid becomes low prior to failure, thus energy is spent generating heat, causing unnecessary losses. If left unchecked, heat can rise to a point at which connections will melt and break the circuit; as a result fires may occur.

Besides loose connections, electrical systems suffer from load imbalances, corrosion, and increase in impedance to current. Thermography will quickly locate hot spots, determine the severity of the problem and help to establish the time scale in which the equipment should be repaired.

All surveys are quantified by a fully comprehensive report, detailing our findings and recommendations for the repair of any fault.