Electricity is usually taken for granted in our society. However, the electrical grid has to have regular inspections of the network’s components to ensure a continuous supply of electricity.
Thermal imaging cameras are increasingly being used to see the components state of operation. E.ON Bayern, a German power and gas utility company are the main power supplier in central Europe and have started to use thermal imaging cameras as part of their preventative maintenance programme.
E.ON’s maintenance programme has specifications as to when each part of the system should be inspected depending on how prone particular components are to failure.
A thermal imaging camera, used as part of their maintenance, allows the team to see problems that could develop into something much more serious. A technician may hear a strange noise and will call the thermographer to investigate using infrared technology. This investigation can be carried out in a safe, non-contact way and will highlight anything unusual that needs further investigation before it is allowed to become dangerous.
Cameras suitable for applications such as this one need to have features that include interchangeable lenses, a visual imaging camera, an uncooled microbolmeter detector, a resolution of 640x480 pixels and a thermal sensitivity of below 30mK.
A thermal imaging camera like the Flir P660 would be suitable for an application such as this. If you would like to use infrared technology for an application like this one, call our thermal imaging expert for help and advice on 0845 365 3938.
Written by Sara Thomson
